Step-by-Step Guide: How to Take Wheel Bearing Out for Beginners

Are you experiencing a persistent humming or grinding noise coming from your wheels? Does your steering feel wobbly or unstable? These could be signs of a failing wheel bearing, and if left unchecked, can lead to serious safety issues. Replacing a wheel bearing can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s a DIY project that’s within reach. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to take wheel bearing out, ensuring you have a smooth and successful repair.

Why Should You Learn How to Take Wheel Bearing Out?

Understanding how to take wheel bearing out empowers you to:

• Save Money: Labor costs for wheel bearing replacement can be significant. Doing it yourself allows you to save on these expenses.
• Gain Mechanical Skills: This project is a great way to learn about your car’s suspension system and develop valuable mechanical skills.
• Maintain Your Vehicle: Replacing a worn-out wheel bearing ensures your vehicle’s safety and optimal performance.

Essential Tools for the Job

Before you start, gather the following tools:

• Jack and Jack Stands: For lifting the vehicle safely.
• Lug Wrench: To remove the wheel.
• Breaker Bar: To loosen stubborn nuts and bolts.
• Socket Set: To remove various bolts and nuts.
• Torque Wrench: To tighten bolts to the correct specifications.
• Hammer: For tapping components loose.
• Pry Bar: To help separate components.
• Penetrating Fluid: To loosen rusted parts.
• Grease: For lubricating new bearings.
• Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
• Gloves: To protect your hands.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing a Wheel Bearing

1. Prepare Your Work Area and Vehicle:

• Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Chock the rear wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
• Position the jack under the car’s jack point, which is usually located near the wheel.
• Raise the vehicle until the wheel is off the ground and secure it with jack stands.

2. Remove the Wheel:

• Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts.
• Remove the lug nuts completely and pull the wheel off the hub.

3. Remove the Brake Caliper:

• Use a wrench to loosen the caliper mounting bolts.
• Carefully remove the caliper assembly, making sure to support it with a wire or rope to prevent it from hanging on the brake line.

4. Remove the Rotor or Drum:

• For disc brakes: Remove the rotor by pulling it off the hub.
• For drum brakes: Remove the drum by gently tapping it with a hammer.

5. Remove the Hub Assembly:

• For disc brakes: Remove the hub assembly by unscrewing the large nut located in the center of the hub.
• For drum brakes: Remove the hub assembly by unscrewing the bolts that hold it to the spindle.

6. Separate the Wheel Bearing Race:

• For disc brakes: The bearing race is typically pressed into the hub. Use a bearing race remover tool to carefully remove it.
• For drum brakes: The bearing race is usually pressed into the spindle. Use a bearing race remover tool to carefully remove it.

7. Remove the Wheel Bearing:

• Once the race is removed, the wheel bearing can be easily pulled out of the hub or spindle.

8. Cleaning and Inspection:

• Thoroughly clean the hub, spindle, and any other parts that were removed.
• Inspect the parts for any damage or wear.

9. Installing the New Wheel Bearing:

• For disc brakes: Press the new bearing race into the hub using a bearing race installer.
• For drum brakes: Press the new bearing race into the spindle using a bearing race installer.
• Install the new wheel bearing into the hub or spindle.

10. Reassembly:

• For disc brakes: Install the rotor onto the hub.
• For drum brakes: Install the drum onto the hub.
• Install the caliper assembly and tighten the mounting bolts.
• Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications using a torque wrench.
• Lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.

11. Post-Installation Check:

• With the vehicle on the ground, test the steering for any looseness or play.
• Take the vehicle for a test drive and listen for any unusual noises.

Important Tips for Successful Wheel Bearing Replacement:

• Use the Right Tools: Invest in quality tools specifically designed for this job.
• Safety First: Always prioritize your safety by using jack stands and working in a well-lit area.
• Patience and Precision: Take your time and be meticulous during the removal and installation process.
• Proper Lubrication: Apply a generous amount of grease to the new bearing before installation.
• Torque to Spec: Tighten all bolts and nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

The Final Word on How to Take Wheel Bearing Out:

Replacing a wheel bearing is a challenging but rewarding task. By following this step-by-step guide and using the right tools, you can successfully complete the job and restore your vehicle’s handling and safety. Remember, if you’re unsure about any part of the process, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic.

Questions You May Have

Q: How do I know if my wheel bearing is bad?

A: Common signs of a bad wheel bearing include:

• Grinding, humming, or roaring noise: This noise usually increases with speed and may change depending on the direction you’re turning.
• Wobbly steering wheel: A worn-out bearing can cause the steering wheel to feel loose or shaky.
• Vibration in the steering wheel or car: A bad bearing can transmit vibrations through the steering column and into the car’s cabin.

Q: Can I replace just the bearing or do I need to replace the entire hub assembly?

A: In some cases, you can replace just the bearing. However, the hub assembly often comes as a unit, and replacing both is a safer and more reliable option, especially if the hub shows signs of wear.

Q: How often should I replace my wheel bearings?

A: Wheel bearings generally have a long lifespan, but they can wear out prematurely due to factors like harsh driving conditions or poor maintenance. It’s a good idea to inspect them every 50,000 miles or as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.

Q: Is it dangerous to drive with a bad wheel bearing?

A: Yes, driving with a bad wheel bearing can be dangerous. It can lead to loss of control, steering failure, and even wheel detachment. It’s essential to address the issue immediately.