For those who are still unsure, two different types of wheel bearings are being used on vehicles today. Older cars have wheel bearings that are able to be serviced. They have parts from multiple hubs. New cars typically use types of wheel hub bearings. These assemblies are traditionally pressed internally so they cannot be serviced. After using either of these wheel bearings for a long time, you are going to need a replacement.
What to Look for
Wheel bearings can function quite well despite all of the friction and heat that it has to endure regularly. If you want to lengthen the lifespan of your wheel bearings all you need is to properly maintain them and also add lubrication. Even if you do these things regularly, you will still at some point require a wheel bearing replacement.
If you need to check whether or not they need to be replaced, you must first jack up your wheel. You must now attempt to spin the wheel very fast to see if you hear any unusual bearing noises. Those sounds will sound very much like grinding sounds. Then you should try to wiggle the wheel in a rocking-type motion. If the wheel bearing is able to be serviced, they will be small movements. For much larger movements, your wheel bearings may need to be tightened or replaced all-together.
Hub Bearing Assemblies
You will need to check your hub bearing assemblies to see if they need to be replaced. All you will need to do is place your hands on the wheel at positions 9 and 3 while also spinning the wheel and listening for unusual noises. If you do not hear anything unusual, then you can continue. Change to the 12 and 6 positions and wiggle it in a rocking motion. If it is more than an eighth of one inch, then you will most likely need your wheel bearing replaced as soon as possible.
Conclusion
If you want to save money and be cost-effective, you must have your wheel bearings replaced regularly, especially on older vehicles. Crunchy and worn out wheel bearings will require immediate replacement. You should have your wheel bearings checked by a professional mechanic if you hear any noises or need them to be checked. There are times when they need to be greased and other times they require a lot more maintenance and sometimes replaced.
If you need parts for a wheel bearing replacement, The Hub may have the parts you need. Click here to find the exact part you need.
