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The classic symptom of a bad wheel bearing is typically a cyclic chirping, squealing or growling noise that changes in proportion to vehicle speed. Noise that occurs only when the driver is braking is likely a brake problem such as worn pads, not a bad wheel bearing.
What kind of noise does a bad wheel bearing make?
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.
What does a bad wheel bearing feel like?
The symptoms of bad wheel bearings include: Noise: 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.
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.
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.
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 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 do I know if a wheel bearing needs replacing?
Top Warning Signs Your Wheel Bearings Need Replacement Humming Noise. The most easily identifiable and common symptom of bad wheel bearings is audible. Squealing, Growling. Clicking Sound. Wheel Wobble. ABS Failure. Uneven Tire Wear. Vehicle Pulls to One Side. Steering Wheel Vibration.
How long does it take a mechanic to change a wheel bearing?
The time taken to replace a wheel bearing is also slightly different depending on whether the bearing is on the front or rear wheel. A front wheel bearing replacement on average takes around 90 minutes, whereas a rear wheel bearing replacement takes on average just under 1 hour.
Can I change wheel bearings 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.
Can I drive on a noisy wheel bearing?
It is safe to drive with a bad wheel bearing only if you just started to hear a humming, whining, grinding, or growling sound coming from the front or rear wheels. This indicates that the wheel bearing has begun failing and you would need to replace it as soon as possible.
How much does it cost to replace both front wheel bearings?
Both Sides The cost to replace both front wheel bearings is going to be between $260 and $480. The parts alone for the front wheel bearings are about $120 to $200. However, the labor costs will be a bit more extensive at around $140 to $280.
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 bad wheel bearing cause shaking when braking?
There is a wheel bearing behind each of your car’s wheels. Because the wheel hub also serves as a mounting spot for the disc brake, a loose wheel bearing can lead to excessive lateral runout. As a result, you may experience a shaking sensation while braking.
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 drive 200 miles with a bad wheel bearing?
If the bearing noise has been growing gradually, then without suggesting it is “okay” to drive 200 miles, the noise may just grow worse over that distance. If the bearing noise appeared out of nowhere, then that suggests an immediate failure potential and should be changed BEFORE a 200 mile drive.
Can a bad wheel bearing cause brake problems?
We found significant play in the bearing, which can lead to a soft brake pedal. Brake rotors are held in alignment by wheel bearings. If you have a faulty or loose wheel bearing, the rotor will wobble on its axis. This causes a low or spongy brake pedal.
