Revolutionize Your Ride: How to Replace Wheel Bearing Subaru Forester Like a Pro

Replacing a wheel bearing on your Subaru Forester might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it’s a DIY project within reach. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring a smooth and successful repair.

Recognizing the Need for a Wheel Bearing Replacement

Before diving into the replacement process, it’s crucial to identify the symptoms of a failing wheel bearing. Here are some common signs:

• Grinding or roaring noise: This sound often increases with speed and may change pitch depending on the severity of the damage.
• Vibration: A noticeable vibration or shaking in the steering wheel, particularly at higher speeds, can indicate a worn-out bearing.
• Uneven tire wear: If your tires are wearing unevenly, especially on one side, a faulty bearing could be the culprit.
• Play in the wheel: If you can move the wheel back and forth or up and down with noticeable play, the bearing is likely damaged.

Gathering the Necessary Tools and Materials

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

• Jack and jack stands: To safely lift the vehicle.
• Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
• Torque wrench: To tighten bolts and nuts to the correct specifications.
• Hammer: For removing the old bearing.
• Bearing race and seal removal tools: To remove the bearing races and seals.
• Bearing press: To install the new bearing.
• New wheel bearing: Choose a high-quality replacement bearing from a reputable manufacturer.
• Grease: To lubricate the new bearing.
• Penetrating fluid: To loosen stubborn bolts.
• Shop towels: To clean up any debris.
• Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
• Work gloves: To protect your hands.

Preparing Your Subaru Forester for the Replacement

1. Park on a level surface: Ensure your Forester is parked on a firm, level surface.
2. Engage the parking brake: This will prevent the vehicle from rolling while you’re working.
3. Chock the rear wheels: Place chocks behind the rear wheels to further prevent the vehicle from rolling.
4. Loosen the lug nuts: Before lifting the vehicle, loosen the lug nuts on the affected wheel. This will make it easier to remove the wheel later.

Removing the Wheel and Hub Assembly

1. Jack up the vehicle: Use the jack to lift the vehicle until the affected wheel is off the ground.
2. Place jack stands: Securely position the jack stands under the vehicle’s frame, ensuring they are stable and supporting the vehicle’s weight.
3. Remove the lug nuts: Remove the remaining lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
4. Remove the brake caliper: Remove the brake caliper assembly by loosening the caliper bolts. Be careful not to damage the brake lines.
5. Remove the rotor: Remove the brake rotor by carefully pulling it off the hub.
6. Remove the hub assembly: The hub assembly is attached to the suspension with several bolts. Remove these bolts and carefully remove the hub assembly.

Removing the Old Wheel Bearing

1. Remove the bearing race: Use a bearing race and seal removal tool to remove the outer bearing race from the hub assembly.
2. Remove the bearing: Use a hammer and a punch to gently tap the old bearing out of the hub assembly.
3. Remove the inner race: Use the bearing race and seal removal tool to remove the inner bearing race from the hub assembly.

Installing the New Wheel Bearing

1. Clean the hub assembly: Thoroughly clean the hub assembly and ensure there are no remnants of the old bearing or grease.
2. Install the inner race: Use the bearing press to carefully install the new inner bearing race into the hub assembly.
3. Install the new bearing: Use the bearing press to install the new bearing into the hub assembly.
4. Install the outer race: Use the bearing race and seal removal tool to install the new outer bearing race into the hub assembly.
5. Pack the bearing with grease: Apply a generous amount of grease to the new bearing.

Reassembling the Hub Assembly and Wheel

1. Install the hub assembly: Carefully reinstall the hub assembly onto the suspension, ensuring all bolts are properly tightened.
2. Install the rotor: Reinstall the brake rotor onto the hub assembly.
3. Install the brake caliper: Reinstall the brake caliper assembly, ensuring the bolts are properly tightened.
4. Install the wheel: Install the wheel back onto the hub assembly and tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specification.
5. Lower the vehicle: Lower the vehicle using the jack and remove the jack stands.
6. Tighten the lug nuts: Tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specification.

Final Touches and Post-Replacement Inspection

1. Test drive: Take your Subaru Forester for a test drive to ensure the new bearing is functioning correctly.
2. Listen for any noises: Pay close attention to any unusual noises, such as grinding or roaring.
3. Check for vibration: Observe the steering wheel for any vibration or shaking.
4. Inspect for leaks: Check for any leaks from the hub assembly.
5. Adjust the parking brake: Adjust the parking brake if necessary.

A Final Word on Replacing Your Subaru Forester’s Wheel Bearing

Replacing your Subaru Forester’s wheel bearing is a relatively straightforward process that can save you money compared to having it done by a mechanic. However, it’s essential to follow the steps outlined above carefully and to use the proper tools and materials. If you’re not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: How often should I replace my Subaru Forester‘s wheel bearings?

A: Wheel bearing lifespan varies depending on driving conditions, but typically lasts between 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, it’s best to inspect them regularly for signs of wear and tear.

Q: Can I use a hydraulic press instead of a bearing press?

A: While a hydraulic press can be used, a bearing press is specifically designed for this task and provides more precise control, reducing the risk of damaging the bearing or hub assembly.

Q: What type of grease should I use for my wheel bearing?

A: Use a high-quality, lithium-based grease specifically designed for wheel bearings. Avoid using general-purpose grease, as it may not provide adequate lubrication or protection.

Q: What are the potential consequences of ignoring a failing wheel bearing?

A: Ignoring a failing wheel bearing can lead to severe damage to the hub assembly, suspension components, and even tire failure, potentially causing accidents.

Q: How do I know if I need to replace both wheel bearings on the same axle?

A: While one bearing might be failing, it’s a good idea to inspect the other bearing on the same axle for signs of wear and tear. If both bearings are showing signs of wear, it’s best to replace them both at the same time to avoid unnecessary future repairs.