Don’t Pay a Fortune for Garage Fees: How to Change Front Wheel Bearing on a Toyota Aygo Yourself!

Are you experiencing a rumbling noise from your Toyota Aygo‘s front wheels, particularly when turning or driving over bumps? This could be a sign of a worn-out front wheel bearing. Replacing a front wheel bearing is a relatively straightforward DIY project, and this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. However, if you’re not comfortable working on your car, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic.

Understanding the Importance of Front Wheel Bearings

Before diving into the replacement process, let’s understand why front wheel bearings are crucial. These bearings are responsible for supporting the weight of the vehicle and allowing the wheels to rotate smoothly. A worn-out bearing can cause a range of issues, including:

• Rumbling or grinding noise: This is the most common symptom of a failing bearing, especially when turning or driving over bumps.
• Vibration: A worn bearing can cause vibrations in the steering wheel, making it difficult to control the vehicle.
• Uneven tire wear: A damaged bearing can lead to uneven tire wear, reducing tire life and compromising safety.
• Wheel wobble: A worn bearing can cause the wheel to wobble, making it difficult to drive smoothly.

Gathering the Necessary Tools and Parts

To replace the front wheel bearing on your Toyota Aygo, you’ll need the following tools and parts:

• Jack and jack stands: These are essential for lifting the vehicle safely.
• Lug wrench: This is used to loosen and tighten the lug nuts.
• Torque wrench: This ensures that the lug nuts are tightened to the correct specifications.
• Breaker bar: This is used to loosen stubborn nuts and bolts.
• Socket set: You’ll need various sizes of sockets for removing the wheel, hub, and bearing.
• Hammer: This is used to tap the bearing out of the hub.
• Pry bar: This can be helpful for removing the bearing race from the hub.
• Grease: You’ll need grease to lubricate the new bearing.
• New front wheel bearing: Make sure to order the correct bearing for your Toyota Aygo model year.

Preparing Your Toyota Aygo for the Replacement

1. Park on a level surface: Ensure your Aygo is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Chock the rear wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
3. Loosen the lug nuts: Before lifting the vehicle, use your lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on. Don’t remove them completely at this stage.

Lifting the Vehicle and Removing the Wheel

1. Position the jack: Place the jack under the designated jack point on the front of your Aygo. This point is usually located near the front wheel.
2. Raise the vehicle: Slowly lift the vehicle until the wheel is slightly off the ground.
3. Remove the lug nuts: Once the wheel is off the ground, remove the lug nuts completely.
4. Remove the wheel: Carefully remove the wheel from the vehicle.

Removing the Old Front Wheel Bearing

1. Remove the brake caliper: Use a wrench to remove the bolts holding the brake caliper to the bracket. Carefully hang the caliper out of the way using a wire or zip tie.
2. Remove the rotor: The rotor is attached to the hub. You may need to use a hammer and a drift punch to tap the rotor off the hub.
3. Remove the hub nut: This nut is located in the center of the hub. Use a breaker bar and socket to loosen and remove the hub nut.
4. Remove the hub: The hub should now slide off the spindle. You may need to use a pry bar to help separate the hub from the spindle.
5. Remove the old bearing: The bearing is pressed into the hub. You can use a hammer and a drift punch to tap the bearing out of the hub. Be careful not to damage the hub.

Installing the New Front Wheel Bearing

1. Clean the hub: Thoroughly clean the hub and any surrounding surfaces to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Press in the new bearing: Using a bearing press or a suitable alternative, carefully press the new bearing into the hub. Ensure it is seated properly.
3. Pack the bearing with grease: Apply a generous amount of grease to the new bearing, ensuring it is well-lubricated.
4. Reinstall the hub: Slide the hub back onto the spindle, ensuring it is properly seated.
5. Tighten the hub nut: Tighten the hub nut to the specified torque using a torque wrench.

Reassembling the Front Wheel and Brake System

1. Install the rotor: Reinstall the rotor onto the hub, making sure it is properly seated.
2. Install the brake caliper: Carefully reattach the brake caliper to the bracket, ensuring the brake pads are properly aligned.
3. Tighten the caliper bolts: Tighten the caliper bolts to the specified torque.
4. Install the wheel: Carefully install the wheel back onto the hub, ensuring it is properly seated.
5. Tighten the lug nuts: Tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque using a torque wrench.
6. Lower the vehicle: Slowly lower the vehicle until the wheel is firmly on the ground.
7. Remove the jack: Once the vehicle is safely on the ground, remove the jack.
8. Tighten the lug nuts again: After lowering the vehicle, give the lug nuts a final tightening.

Road Test and Final Check

1. Start the engine: Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes.
2. Road test: Take the vehicle for a short test drive, paying attention to any unusual noises or vibrations.
3. Inspect for leaks: After the test drive, check for any leaks from the hub or brake caliper.

Final Thoughts: A Success Story

Replacing a front wheel bearing on your Toyota Aygo is a satisfying DIY project that can save you money. By following these steps carefully, you can confidently tackle this task and ensure your vehicle is running smoothly and safely. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a professional if you’re unsure about any part of the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I replace my front wheel bearings?

A: Front wheel bearings typically last for around 100,000 miles, but this can vary depending on driving conditions and maintenance. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned earlier, it’s a good idea to have your bearings inspected.

Q: Can I replace just one front wheel bearing?

A: While it’s possible to replace just one bearing, it’s generally recommended to replace both bearings at the same time. This ensures that both bearings are in good condition and that you don’t have to repeat the process in the near future.

Q: Can I use a hammer to press in the new bearing?

A: While you can use a hammer to tap the bearing out of the hub, it’s not recommended for pressing in the new bearing. Using a hammer can damage the bearing and lead to premature failure. It’s best to use a bearing press or a suitable alternative for pressing in the new bearing.

Q: What are some signs that my front wheel bearing is failing?

A: The most common signs of a failing front wheel bearing are:

• Rumbling or grinding noise, particularly when turning or driving over bumps.
• Vibration in the steering wheel.
• Uneven tire wear.
• Wheel wobble.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to have your bearings inspected by a professional.

Q: Is it safe to drive with a worn-out front wheel bearing?

A: Driving with a worn-out front wheel bearing can be dangerous. It can cause the wheel to seize up, leading to loss of control and potentially a serious accident. If you suspect your front wheel bearing is failing, it’s best to avoid driving the vehicle until it’s repaired.