The Comprehensive Guide to 2017 F150 Wheel Bearings: Maintenance, Replacement, and Troubleshooting

Introduction

The 2017 Ford F150 is a highly popular pickup truck known for its durability and performance. Its wheel bearings play a vital role in ensuring smooth and safe driving by allowing the wheels to rotate freely while reducing friction. Maintaining, replacing, and troubleshooting wheel bearings is crucial to prevent premature wear, potential accidents, and costly repairs.

What are Wheel Bearings?

Wheel bearings are mechanical components that support the weight of the vehicle and transmit motion between the axle and the wheels. They consist of inner and outer races that contain ball bearings to reduce friction and wear.

Symptoms of Worn Wheel Bearings

Failing wheel bearings exhibit telltale symptoms that require immediate attention:

• Unusual grinding or growling noises: These sounds indicate excessive wear or damage to the bearings.
• Excessive play or looseness in the wheel: Worn bearings allow the wheel to wobble or move side-to-side.
• Vibration in the steering wheel or vehicle: Faulty bearings can cause vibrations that worsen at higher speeds.
• Uneven tire wear: Premature wear on one side of the tire may be a sign of a worn wheel bearing.
• Lubricant leaking from the wheel hub: Leaking grease or oil suggests a damaged or worn bearing seal.

Causes of Wheel Bearing Failure

Wheel bearings can fail prematurely due to various factors, including:

• Improper installation: Overtightening or undertightening the bearing can cause deformation or damage.
• Lack of lubrication: Insufficient or contaminated lubricant leads to increased friction and bearing wear.
• Impact or damage: Hitting potholes or curbs can shock the bearings and compromise their integrity.
• Excessive load: Overloading the vehicle or towing heavy loads puts excessive stress on the bearings.
• Corrosion: Exposure to moisture or road salt accelerates bearing corrosion and weakens their components.

Why is it Important to Maintain and Replace Wheel Bearings on your 2017 F150?

• Safety: Worn wheel bearings can lead to steering problems, reduced braking performance, and increased accident risk.
• Reduced wear and tear: Proper maintenance extends the life of tires and other suspension components by reducing friction and vibration.
• Improved performance: Smoothly operating wheel bearings enhance handling, braking, and fuel efficiency.
• Preventive maintenance: Regular inspection and replacement of wheel bearings can prevent costly repairs or replacements in the long run.

How to Step-by-Step Replace Wheel Bearings on your 2017 F150

Replacing wheel bearings requires some automotive knowledge and specialized tools. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Safety First: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the wheels opposite the bearing being replaced.
2. Remove the Wheel: Using a lug wrench, loosen and remove the lug nuts and then remove the wheel.
3. Disconnect the Brake Caliper: Use a wrench or socket to unbolt the brake caliper and support it with a wire or bungee cord to prevent damage to the brake line.
4. Remove the Rotor: Remove the bolts or screws securing the rotor to the wheel hub and slide it off.
5. Remove the Old Bearing: Using a bearing puller, carefully remove the old bearing from the wheel hub.
6. Inspect the Wheel Hub: Check the wheel hub for any damage or corrosion and clean it thoroughly.
7. Install the New Bearing: Apply a thin layer of bearing grease to the new bearing and press it into the wheel hub using a bearing driver or an appropriate tool.
8. Reassemble the Components: Reinstall the rotor, brake caliper, and wheel. Tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.
9. Lubricate the Bearing: Apply a generous amount of bearing grease to both the inner and outer bearing surfaces.
10. Road Test: After completing the replacement, take the vehicle for a short drive to check for any unusual noises or vibrations.

Tools and Materials Required for Replacing Wheel Bearings

• Socket wrench or impact wrench
• Lug wrench
• Bearing puller
• Bearing driver
• Wheel bearing grease
• Torque wrench
• Safety glasses
• Gloves

Cost of Replacing Wheel Bearings

The cost of replacing wheel bearings on a 2017 F150 varies depending on the labor rates in your area and the availability of parts. According to RepairPal, the average cost for a single wheel bearing replacement is between $500 to $800 for both parts and labor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing Wheel Bearings

• Overtightening the Lug Nuts: Excessive tightening can damage the wheel studs or bearings.
• Using the Wrong Bearing: Ensure you purchase and install the correct size and type of bearing for your vehicle.
• Ignoring Bearing Grease: Always apply a sufficient amount of bearing grease to prevent premature wear.
• Not Inspecting the Wheel Hub: Overlooked damage or corrosion on the wheel hub can compromise the new bearing.
• Rushing the Process: Take your time and follow the steps carefully to avoid errors or potential safety hazards.

Pros and Cons of Replacing Wheel Bearings Yourself

Pros:

• Money savings: You can save on labor costs by replacing the bearings yourself.
• Convenience: You can schedule the replacement at your convenience without waiting for a mechanic.
• Satisfaction: Completing the repair successfully can provide a sense of accomplishment.

Cons:

• Difficulty: Replacing wheel bearings requires specialized tools and automotive knowledge.
• Time consumption: DIY repairs can take considerably longer than having a professional handle it.
• Risk of error: Incorrect installation or overlooking a critical step can lead to further problems and safety concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How often should I replace the wheel bearings on my 2017 F150?

A: The replacement interval for wheel bearings can vary depending on driving habits and conditions. It is generally recommended to check and replace them as needed when symptoms of wear or damage appear.

Q2. Can I replace just one wheel bearing if the others are still in good condition?

A: Yes, you can replace a single wheel bearing if only one is worn or damaged. However, it is advisable to inspect the others for potential issues and consider replacing them as a set to ensure optimal performance.

Q3. Is it necessary to replace the entire wheel hub assembly when replacing wheel bearings?

A: In most cases, replacing only the wheel bearings is sufficient. However, if the wheel hub is damaged or worn, it may need to be replaced as well.

Q4. Can I drive with worn wheel bearings?

A: Driving with worn wheel bearings is not recommended. It can increase friction, cause vibrations, and lead to potential accidents. It is crucial to address the issue and replace the bearings promptly.

Q5. Is it possible to repack wheel bearings instead of replacing them?

A: Repacking wheel bearings is an older practice and is generally not recommended for modern vehicles. Repacked bearings may not provide the same level of performance and reliability as new bearings.

Q6. What are the telltale signs that my wheel bearings are in good condition?

A: Smooth rotation without excessive play or noise, minimal vibration during driving, and no signs of lubricant leakage indicate well-maintained wheel bearings.

Conclusion

Maintaining, replacing, and troubleshooting wheel bearings on your 2017 F150 is essential for safe and reliable driving. By following the steps outlined in this guide, addressing issues promptly, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can ensure optimal performance and extend the life of your vehicle's wheel components. Remember, investing in regular vehicle maintenance can prevent costly repairs and keep your F150 running smoothly for many years to come.

Additional Tips

• Consider using high-quality wheel bearings from reputable manufacturers.
• Inspect wheel bearings regularly during tire rotations or brake inspections.
• Monitor road conditions and avoid hitting potholes or curbs that can shock the bearings.
• If you are not comfortable performing the replacement yourself, seek professional assistance from a certified mechanic.
• Keep a record of wheel bearing replacements and other vehicle maintenance for reference and to improve future maintenance scheduling.