How to Change Ford Fiesta Wheel Bearing: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Are you experiencing a rumbling noise from your Ford Fiesta, especially when driving at high speeds? This could be a sign of a worn-out wheel bearing. Replacing a wheel bearing on your Ford Fiesta might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it’s a manageable DIY task. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, helping you tackle this common car maintenance issue.

Understanding Wheel Bearings

Wheel bearings are essential components that support the weight of your vehicle and allow the wheels to rotate smoothly. They are essentially ball bearings housed within a sealed unit, providing low-friction movement. Over time, these bearings can wear down due to friction, causing noise, vibration, and even wheel wobble.

Symptoms of a Bad Wheel Bearing

Before diving into the replacement process, it’s crucial to identify the signs of a failing wheel bearing. These symptoms can help you determine if you need to replace the bearing and avoid further damage to your vehicle.

• Rumbling or growling noise: This is perhaps the most common symptom, especially noticeable when driving at higher speeds or turning.
• Vibration: You might feel the steering wheel vibrate or the vehicle shake, particularly at specific speeds.
• Wheel wobble: If the wheel bearing is severely worn, you might notice a wobble in the wheel when driving.
• Whistling or screeching noise: A high-pitched whistling or screeching noise, especially when turning, could indicate a failing bearing.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools and materials readily available:

• Jack and jack stands: For safely lifting the vehicle.
• Lug wrench: To loosen and tighten lug nuts.
• Torque wrench: To tighten lug nuts to the correct specification.
• Wheel bearing puller: To remove the old bearing.
• Wheel bearing press: To install the new bearing.
• Hammer: For tapping components into place.
• Socket set: For removing and installing various bolts.
• Pliers: For gripping and manipulating parts.
• Grease: For lubricating the new bearing.
• New wheel bearing: Make sure to order the correct bearing for your Ford Fiesta model and year.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing a Wheel Bearing

Now that you have all the necessary tools and materials, let’s walk through the replacement process:

1. Park your vehicle on a level surface: Engage the parking brake and chock the rear wheels for safety.
2. Loosen the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the affected wheel. Don’t remove them completely at this stage.
3. Jack up the vehicle: Place the jack under the designated jacking point near the affected wheel. Carefully raise the vehicle until the wheel is slightly off the ground.
4. Remove the wheel: Remove the lug nuts completely and carefully remove the wheel.
5. Remove the brake caliper: Remove the brake caliper by loosening the caliper mounting bolts. Be sure to support the caliper with a wire or rope to prevent it from hanging on the brake line.
6. Remove the brake rotor: Remove the brake rotor by removing the rotor mounting bolts.
7. Remove the hub nut: Use a socket wrench to remove the hub nut, which secures the wheel hub to the spindle.
8. Remove the old bearing: Use the wheel bearing puller to remove the old bearing from the hub. This may require some force and patience.
9. Install the new bearing: Use the wheel bearing press to install the new bearing onto the hub. Ensure the bearing is properly seated and secured.
10. Reassemble the components: Reverse the removal process, ensuring all bolts are tightened to the correct specifications.
11. Lower the vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle and remove the jack.
12. Tighten the lug nuts: Tighten the lug nuts to the correct torque specification using the torque wrench.
13. Test drive: Take your car for a short test drive to ensure the new bearing is properly installed and the noise is gone.

Safety Precautions

Replacing a wheel bearing requires working with heavy components and potentially sharp tools. Always prioritize safety by:

• Wearing safety glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Using gloves: Protect your hands from grease and sharp edges.
• Working on a level surface: Ensure the vehicle is stable and won’t roll.
• Using jack stands: Never rely solely on the jack to support the vehicle.
• Releasing the parking brake: Before lowering the vehicle, release the parking brake to avoid damaging the brake system.

Tips for Successful Replacement

Here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth replacement process:

• Use a repair manual: Refer to a repair manual specific to your Ford Fiesta model for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
• Clean the hub and spindle: Before installing the new bearing, thoroughly clean the hub and spindle to remove any dirt or debris that could cause premature wear.
• Pack the bearing with grease: Apply a generous amount of grease to the new bearing before installing it. This will help to lubricate the bearing and prevent premature wear.
• Don’t overtighten bolts: Overtightening bolts can damage the components and lead to premature wear. Always use a torque wrench to ensure the correct tightening torque.

Final Thoughts: Your Ford Fiesta is Back on the Road!

By following these steps and safety precautions, you’ve successfully replaced your Ford Fiesta wheel bearing and restored your vehicle to its smooth-running condition. Remember to prioritize safety and use the correct tools and materials for the job. If you encounter any difficulties or feel uncomfortable with the process, it’s always best to seek professional help from a qualified mechanic.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: How often should I replace my wheel bearings?

A: Wheel bearings typically last for a long time, but they can wear out prematurely due to factors like harsh driving conditions, heavy loads, or poor maintenance. A general rule of thumb is to inspect them every 50,000 miles or as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.

Q: Can I drive with a bad wheel bearing?

A: While you might be able to drive with a bad wheel bearing for a short distance, it’s not recommended. A worn-out bearing can cause further damage to other components, like the hub, spindle, and even the brake system. It’s best to replace the bearing as soon as possible.

Q: How much does it cost to replace a wheel bearing?

A: The cost of replacing a wheel bearing varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle, the labor costs in your area, and the specific type of bearing required. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $400 for parts and labor.

Q: What are the signs of a worn wheel bearing?

A: The most common signs of a worn wheel bearing include a rumbling or growling noise, especially when driving at higher speeds or turning, vibration in the steering wheel or the vehicle, wheel wobble, and a whistling or screeching noise when turning.