Wheel Bearing Repair Cost: Everything You Need To Know
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Most people know all about tire replacement, at least if they’re car drivers, but a lot of people don’t know much else about how the inside of your vehicle’s wheel works. That’s okay; the majority of the time, you don’t need to know how your wheels are working; you just need to make sure they are.
However, every once in a while, something will go wrong, and you’ll need to take a closer look at your wheels or get your vehicle to a mechanic so they can check it out.
One of the sources of those problems is often the wheel bearings. Since your wheel bearings deal with a lot of the wear and tear work of wheel rotation, it’s not abnormal for them to eventually wear out and need replacement.
The problem is when you don’t catch wheel bearing problems fast enough, and you don’t need to just replace the bearings; you need to deal with the damage the broken bearings caused as well.
Fortunately, quick repairs or replacements usually help prevent excess damage and make it easier to get back on the road.
Here’s what you need to know about what wheel bearings are, how much repairs cost, and the signs and symptoms that it might be time to get your wheels checked.
What Is A Wheel Bearing?
All the wheels on your vehicle have bearings, and that’s important for helping reduce the friction between moving parts and to help keep your ride smoother and quieter.
Unfortunately, like all bearings, wheel bearings can wear out and occasionally need to be replaced. In fact, replacing them is especially important because a worn bearing can create more friction than your wheels can handle, resulting in damage and even more instability the longer you wait to fix the problem.
A typical wheel bearing is either a metal sphere or a metal cylinder that can rotate freely to help reduce friction. There are several of them in all of your wheels; anywhere two surfaces would touch while the vehicle is moving. That way, the friction turns the bearing, which both reduces the friction and helps prevent overheating.
When bearings wear out, it’s usually because they’ve changed shape slightly and are no longer efficient or because their surface has gone brittle and is starting to break apart.
No matter how the bearing is starting to wear, wearing out will reduce the efficiency and create more friction, heat, and roughness while you’re driving.
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How Much Does A Wheel Bearing Repair Cost?
Depending on how quickly you’re able to get your wheel bearing replaced, there are two replacement costs you need to know about.
If you catch that your wheel bearing is starting to have trouble quickly, you might just be able to replace one or two of the bearings without needing to fix anything else inside your wheel hub.
A single wheel bearing replacement should cost somewhere between $200-$400, depending on your location and the kind of bearings your vehicle uses.
However, if you also need to replace the wheel hub, which houses the bearings, it will typically cost between $200-$500 depending on the hub and wheel type.
So, it’s important to make sure you replace your wheel bearings as soon as possible after you notice a problem because otherwise, you’ll likely have a much more expensive repair when you get your vehicle to the shop.
How Often Do Wheel Bearings Need Replacement?
Wheel bearings are one of the parts of your vehicle that a lot of people don’t think about much, partially because it’s common for people not to know that your bearings are part of a brake service.
Most people recommend that your bearings should be checked every time your brakes are serviced, and that can include things like realigning the bearings to help prevent uneven wear, checking lubrication, and looking for early signs that the bearings are starting to wear out.
That maintenance will typically happen every 25,000-30,000 miles.
Your wheel bearings or wheel hub will likely need to be replaced every 85,000-100,000 miles if they’re sealed, which prevents maintenance but also helps the bearings last a little longer.
For other wheel hubs and bearings, the replacement schedule is a little more variable and also depends on the kind of driving you do, in addition to how many miles you’ve driven.
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What Are The Symptoms Of A Bad Wheel Bearing?
Noticing wheel bearing issues quickly is incredibly important, but a lot of people brush off the most common symptoms of bad wheel bearings.
Here are some of the most important warning signs.
Loud Noise From The Wheels
Unexpected noises are always concerning when it comes to your vehicle, but loud noises from your wheels usually mean that something is going on either in the wheel hub or brake system.
Screeching or rasping noises are two of the most common, but a loud rumble or grumbling sound can also be a sign that your wheel bearings are starting to do.
Problems Steering
Reducing the friction when you’re driving makes it a lot easier for you to move and steer, so one of the first signs that your wheel bearings are starting to go out is if you’re starting to have more problems steering.
Turning especially may get harder, or you might notice that you need to oversteer to make a turn effectively.
Uneven Tire Wear
Uneven tire wear is often a sign that you need to get a wheel alignment, and since alignments need to happen more often than a wheel bearing replacement, you’ll normally be able to fix the problem with an alignment.
However, uneven tire wear can also be a sign that your wheel bearings are going out, especially if the wear seems to only affect one tire.
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Steering Wheel Vibration
Vibration in your steering wheel is another symptom that can point to a variety of problems, but one of the more common ones is wheel bearing wear.
That’s because the extra friction from a worn wheel bearing gets transferred through your entire vehicle, especially the wheel assembly and steering system.
Now, this symptom is tricky because worn roads can also create more vibration, as can other problems that create friction or instability through your vehicle.
Preventive Maintenance for Wheel Bearings
While wheel bearings are built to last, proactive care can significantly extend their lifespan and prevent costly repairs. Regular maintenance isn’t just about saving money; it’s about ensuring your safety on the road. Here are some key practices to keep your wheel bearings in top shape:
- Scheduled inspections: Have a professional check your wheel bearings during routine maintenance visits. They can spot early signs of wear before major issues develop.
- Keep them clean: When possible, avoid driving through deep water or mud. These elements can contaminate the bearing grease, leading to premature failure.
- Listen to your vehicle: Pay attention to unusual noises or vibrations. Early detection of problems can save you from more extensive repairs down the line.
- Proper wheel alignment: Ensure your wheels are correctly aligned. Misalignment can put extra stress on your bearings, causing them to wear out faster.
- Quality replacements: If replacement is necessary, opt for high-quality parts from reputable vendors. While they may cost more upfront, they often last longer and perform better.
By incorporating these practices into your vehicle care routine, you’re not just maintaining your wheel bearings – you’re investing in your car’s overall health and your peace of mind on the road.
Wheel Bearing Repair: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the signs of a failing wheel bearing?
A: Common signs include a humming or rumbling noise that increases with speed, a loose or vibrating steering wheel, uneven tire wear, and the ABS light turning on.
Q: Is it possible to drive with a damaged wheel bearing?
A: While it’s technically possible, it’s not safe or recommended to drive with a damaged wheel bearing. Doing so can lead to further damage, loss of wheel control, and even accidents.
Q: How long does it take to repair a wheel bearing?
A: The time it takes to repair a wheel bearing can vary based on the complexity of the repair and the type of vehicle. However, it typically takes about 15 to 45 minutes per wheel for an easy job, and as long as 90 to 120 minutes for more complex tasks.
Q: Does car insurance cover wheel bearing repair?
A: Generally, car insurance does not cover wheel bearing repair as it’s considered part of regular maintenance. However, if the damage was caused by an accident, it might be covered under your policy.
Q: Can I repair a wheel bearing myself?
A: While it’s possible to repair a wheel bearing yourself if you have the right tools and knowledge, it’s generally recommended to have this kind of repair done by a professional mechanic to ensure it’s done correctly and safely.
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