QA

How To Tell Which Wheel Bearing Is Bad

What are the symptoms of bad wheel bearings A humming, rumbling or growling noise that increases with acceleration or as the vehicle turns. A loud constant whining or grinding noise when the vehicle is in motion. Clunking noises when driving over uneven road surfaces.

How do you know which rear wheel bearing is bad while driving?

Pay attention to noises. This is how to tell which wheel bearing is bad by turning as the opposite side of the turn is the affected area. A clicking sound also demands attention, as it is likely to come from a broken bearing in the hub assembly. If a bearing is the culprit, the noise turns faster with acceleration.

Will my tire fall off with a bad wheel bearing?

A bad wheel bearing is a serious mechanical issue that requires a quick repair. A bad bearing can stop your wheel from moving, and this can happen while you are driving. The wheel bearing keeps your wheel attached to the car, so if it fails to function completely, then your tire could fall off.

How can you tell the difference between bad CV joints and bad wheel bearings?

If it moves back and forth, the wheel bearing is bad. A CV joint will make a clack, clack, clack noise, most often when turning. A wheel bearing will make a constant droning noise while you are moving. CV joints clunk or make louder noises on tight turns.

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.

What does a bad rear bearing sound like?

The classic sounds of a bad wheel bearing are cyclic chirping, squealing and/or growling noise. You can also tell that the sound is related to wheel bearings if it changes in proportion to vehicle speed. The sound can get worse with every turn, or it can disappear momentarily.

How expensive is it to replace a wheel bearing?

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 $800.4 days ago.

How long will a wheel bearing last after it starts making noise?

Typically, a wheel bearing should last roughly 1,000 to 1,500 miles after it starts making noise. This doesn’t mean you should keep driving since a noisy wheel bearing is always a risk. When your wheel bearings are making noise, it’s a sign that something is not working properly and might fail when you’re driving.

How long can u drive on a bad wheel bearing?

As to the distance covered on a bad wheel bearing, you shouldn’t exceed 1000 miles regardless of your speed. Driving distances over 1000 miles could lead to more severe complications and also puts your safety in jeopardy. Moving at a slow and steady speed of 40mph would be a good idea.

How can you tell the difference between tire noise and wheel bearing noise?

Squealing Or Grinding Noise To confirm it, change the speed of the vehicle. If the noise becomes worse the faster you drive, then it’s almost certainly a bad wheel bearing. If the noise remains the same, then the issue may be the tires instead.

What noise does a bad axle make?

When constant velocity axles fail, you may also hear an unusual clicking sound may when turning the vehicle as joints become loose. These clicks are on the side of the faulty axle shaft and typically become noisier during sharp or fast turns.

Does wheel bearing noise stops when braking?

The classic symptom of a bad wheel bearing is typically a cyclic chirping, squealing or growling noise that changes in proportion to vehicle speed. The frequency of the noise will also change in proportion to vehicle speed, but will often go away or change when the brakes are lightly applied.

Should I change wheel bearings in pairs?

Should car wheel bearings be replaced in pairs? No, bearings do not wear in or form to each other. You only need to replace bearings that are actually bad.

Is it OK to change just one wheel bearing?

Should sealed wheel bearing hubs be replaced individually or in pairs? A. As long as the other wheel bearing is not making noise and play is still within specifications, it should remain in service.

Do both wheel bearings need replaced 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. Get the price estimate for wheel bearing replacement for your make and model of car.

How does a technician check for a loose wheel bearing?

Play in the Wheels – Most often this symptom will be identified by a technician. When your vehicle is up on the lift, a technician will grab the wheel on either side and attempt to rock it back and forth. If the wheel assembly wobbles back and forth, worn out wear bearings are likely the cause.

What are the signs of a bad wheel hub?

Here are some of the common signs associated with worn wheel hub bearings: Grinding Noise. If you hear (or sometimes even feel) a grinding noise coming from the car, it is often a sign of a damaged wheel bearing. Humming Noise. Other Sounds. Vibrating or Wobbling Wheels. Car Pulling to One Side. Uneven Brake Pad or Tire Wear.

What does a blown wheel bearing sound like?

A bad wheel bearing sound is usually a loud hum coming from that wheel sort of like loud road noise from bad tires. A similar noise can come from worn bearings in your transmission or even a low transmission fluid level. Today, most vehicles use a unit bearing pressed or bolted onto the hub or knuckle.