QA

How To Replace Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly

Can I just replace the wheel bearing and not the Hub?

On some cars, you can just replace the bearing and call it a day. On others, the hub assembly must be removed and replaced. The most difficult type involves removing the hub assembly and setting it in a press. If you’re not sure what type of wheel hub assembly you have, stop by or give your local Pep Boys store a call.

Can I replace a wheel bearing myself?

Changing your own wheel bearings is considered an intermediate job that can be done at home, but will need some speciality mechanic tools. Be sure to obtain your vehicle’s service manual and identify the type of wheel bearing your vehicle is equipped with before you begin the repair.

Should I replace wheel bearing or hub assembly?

You should replace your hub assembly and wheel bearings. Here’s how to replace wheel bearings. Even if only one side is bad, it makes sense to replace them in pairs. Typically, a hub assembly that is worn out will be hotter than the other hub assemblies on the vehicle.

How long does it take to replace a wheel hub bearing?

How long does it take to replace Wheel Bearings? Replacing a single wheel bearing can take 90 to 120 minutes depending on the type of vehicle and complexity. There are a lot of moving parts that need to be maintained and properly sealed to complete this type of work.

Is a wheel bearing and hub the same thing?

A major difference between the two is how they are assembled. Wheel bearings can be taken apart, lubricated and reassembled to be used again. Hub bearings are pre-packed at the manufacturer’s factory and are sold and installed as a complete unit. These cannot be taken apart for re-lubrication, but must be replaced.

How much does a hub bearing replacement cost?

The cost to replace one front-wheel hub assembly varies widely. Some variables include the make and model, the garage’s labor rate and the cost for parts. The national average is about $350 to fix the wheel bearings at one wheel.

How much does a hub bearing cost?

The vast majority of vehicles today use a complete-unit hub bearing. Here, the cost of the bearing is usually the bulk of the expense, as most hub bearings run between $80.00 to $300.00.

How much do new bearings cost?

The labor cost for a wheel bearing replacement also varies and will generally cost anywhere from $60 to $300. It should take between 1 to 1.5 labor hours to change the wheel bearing. In total, the cost to replace a wheel bearing is around $150 to $800.

How long does it take to replace a front wheel bearing hub assembly?

If it is a wheel bearing in the rear, it may take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes and if the hubs and wheel bearing is permanently bolted to the car it can take 20 minutes to an hour. Front-wheel bearings can take from 30 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, all depending on your mechanic.

Should I replace both wheel bearings at the same time?

If bearings go bad at one wheel, it is unnecessary to replace the bearings at the other wheel on the same axle. Don’t let someone talk you into work that is not needed.

How do I know if my hub assembly wheel bearing is bad?

Grinding Noise Loose Steering Wheel. When a wheel hub bearing goes bad, you may feel some looseness in the steering wheel. Vehicle Pulling To The Side When Brakes Are Applied. Worn bearings become loose. Uneven Tire Wear. This happens when the wheel bearing becomes bad enough. Wheel Vibration And Wobble.

What happens if your hub bearing goes out?

If your wheel bearing fails, it can cause the wheel to stop while you are driving or possibly even to fall off. At the very least, before a wheel falls off, a failed wheel bearing can/will cause significant damage to your vehicle, so it’s very important to keep an eye on these and keep them maintained.

How do I know if my hub assembly is bad?

Here is a list of signs if you have a hub assembly that may need to be replaced: Snapping, clicking or popping noises when cornering or making sharp turns. Grinding noise when the vehicle is moving. Knocking or clunking sensation from the vehicle. Wheel vibration and/or wobble. Poor steering control.

How hard is it to change a wheel bearing?

Is it easy to replace a wheel bearing at home? Replacing a wheel bearing that comes as an assembly with the hub and bolts to the spindle or steering knuckle is not very difficult if you have proper skills, tools and the manual. Of course, the large axle nut is very tight and can be difficult to remove.

Is replacing a wheel bearing a big job?

A front or rear wheel bearing replacement isn’t a huge job, however it is fairly complex and can be time-consuming even for the most experienced mechanics.

How much does it cost to have wheel bearings packed?

In a car, it will cost between $100 and $400 on average to have your bearings checked, repacked, or changed professionally (depending on your location and mechanic).