How to Change Hub Bearings: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Hub bearings play a critical role in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of your vehicle. They allow the wheels to rotate freely while supporting the weight of the car. Over time, hub bearings can wear out or fail, leading to a range of problems, including excessive noise, vibrations, and impaired handling. Replacing hub bearings is a relatively complex task, but it can be accomplished with the right tools and a bit of mechanical know-how.

Symptoms of Bad Hub Bearings

The following are some common symptoms that may indicate a problem with your hub bearings:

• Humming or grinding noise: A continuous humming or grinding noise while driving, which increases in volume and pitch as you accelerate, is a classic sign of worn hub bearings.
• Vibrations in the steering wheel, seat, or floorboard: Vibrations that are felt through the steering wheel, seat, or floorboard, especially at higher speeds, can be caused by faulty hub bearings.
• Uneven tire wear: If you notice uneven tire wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges of the tires, it can be a sign of misaligned or worn hub bearings.
• Difficulty steering: In some cases, damaged hub bearings can make steering difficult or cause the vehicle to pull to one side while driving.
• ABS or traction control light: If the ABS or traction control lights illuminate on your dashboard, it can indicate a problem with the hub bearings, as they are often integrated with the wheel speed sensors.

Tools and Materials Needed

To change your hub bearings, you will need the following tools and materials:

• Hub bearing removal tool (specific to your vehicle's make and model)
• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips head screwdriver
• 1/2-inch drive ratchet
• Socket set
• Torque wrench
• Bearing race and seal driver (optional but recommended)
• Grease
• New hub bearings (specific to your vehicle's make and model)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Safety First

• Park the vehicle on a flat and level surface.
• Engage the parking brake.
• Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that corresponds to the hub bearing you will be replacing, but do not remove them completely.

2. Remove the Wheel

• Use a jack or jack stands to lift the vehicle and support it securely.
• Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

3. Remove the Brake Caliper and Rotor

• Remove the bolts that hold the brake caliper in place.
• Carefully lift off the brake caliper and hang it out of the way, taking care not to damage the brake line.
• Remove the bolts that hold the brake rotor in place and pull off the rotor.

4. Remove the Hub Bolt and Puller

• Use a 1/2-inch drive ratchet to remove the hub bolt.
• Thread the hub bearing removal tool onto the hub and tighten it until the hub pulls off.

5. Remove the Old Hub Bearing

• Carefully pry off the old hub bearing using a flathead screwdriver.
• Clean the hub and knuckle of any old grease or debris.

6. Install the New Hub Bearing

• Apply a thin layer of grease to the mating surfaces of the hub and the new bearing.
• Use a bearing race and seal driver to press the new bearing into place.
• Make sure that the bearing is seated fully and evenly.

7. Install the Hub Bolt and Rotor

• Thread the hub bolt into the hub and tighten it to the specified torque using a torque wrench.
• Install the brake rotor and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.

8. Install the Brake Caliper

• Position the brake caliper over the rotor and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
• Pump the brake pedal several times to restore pressure to the system.

9. Install the Wheel

• Place the wheel back on the hub and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
• Lower the vehicle and fully tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque using a torque wrench.

10. Test Drive

• Go for a test drive to ensure that the new hub bearing is functioning properly. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.

Tips and Tricks

• Use high-quality hub bearings: Invest in high-quality hub bearings from a reputable manufacturer to ensure durability and performance.
• Lubricate the bearings: Always apply a thin layer of grease to the mating surfaces of the hub and bearings to reduce friction and wear.
• Tighten the bolts to the specified torque: Overtightening or undertightening the bolts can damage the hub bearings or the hub itself. Use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening torque.
• Check for play: After installing the new bearings, check for any play or movement. The bearings should rotate smoothly with no excessive play.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not replacing the hub bolt: The hub bolt is designed to keep the hub and bearing in place. Failure to replace it can cause the hub to become loose and damage the bearing.
• Overtightening the hub bolt: Overtightening the hub bolt can stretch or break the bolt, and potentially damage the threads on the hub.
• Using the wrong hub bearing: Installing the wrong hub bearing can lead to premature failure and safety issues. Always use the correct bearing size and type for your vehicle.
• Ignoring symptoms of bad hub bearings: Neglecting to address symptoms of worn hub bearings can lead to more serious issues, such as impaired handling, increased tire wear, and steering problems.

FAQs

• How long does it take to change a hub bearing? The time it takes to change a hub bearing varies depending on the vehicle and the tools available. In general, it can take between 2 and 4 hours.
• How often should I replace my hub bearings? The lifespan of hub bearings varies depending on the vehicle and driving conditions. In general, hub bearings should be replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
• Can I change hub bearings myself? Changing hub bearings is a moderately complex task. It requires some mechanical knowledge and specialty tools. If you are not comfortable performing the job, it is recommended to have it done by a professional mechanic.
• How much does it cost to replace a hub bearing? The cost of replacing a hub bearing varies depending on the vehicle and the shop you choose. In general, it can range from $250 to $500 per wheel.
• What are the consequences of driving with bad hub bearings? Driving with bad hub bearings can lead to a range of problems, including excessive noise, vibrations, impaired handling, increased tire wear, and steering problems. In severe cases, it can even lead to a loss of control.
• Is it safe to drive with a bad hub bearing? It is not recommended to drive with a bad hub bearing. Ignoring the problem can lead to more serious issues and safety hazards.

Call to Action

If you suspect that your hub bearings may be bad, it is important to have them checked and replaced promptly. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can change your hub bearings yourself and save the cost of hiring a mechanic. However, if you are not comfortable performing the job, do not hesitate to seek professional assistance.