How much does it cost to replace a wheel bearing on a 2013 Chevy Cruze?
The average cost to replace a wheel bearing on a 2013 Chevy Cruze is between $200 and $400, including parts and labor. This can vary depending on the specific repair shop, location, and any additional issues that may be found during the repair process.
Detailed Breakdown of Wheel Bearing Replacement Costs
The wheel bearing is a critical component in the wheel assembly of a vehicle, allowing the wheel to spin smoothly and freely. When a wheel bearing fails, it can cause a variety of issues, including vibrations, noises, and even the potential for the wheel to seize up completely. Replacing a faulty wheel bearing is an important repair to ensure the safe and proper operation of a vehicle.
Parts Cost
The parts cost for a wheel bearing replacement on a 2013 Chevy Cruze can range from $100 to $200, depending on the specific make and model of the bearing and whether it is an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part or an aftermarket replacement. 1 2
Labor Cost
The labor cost for a wheel bearing replacement can range from $100 to $200, depending on the complexity of the repair and the hourly rate of the mechanic or repair shop. 3 4
Additional Costs
In some cases, additional costs may be incurred during a wheel bearing replacement, such as:
- Replacement of other related components, like the wheel hub or brake components
- Alignment of the wheels after the repair
- Diagnostic fees to identify the root cause of the wheel bearing failure
These additional costs can add $50 to $150 or more to the overall repair bill. 5 6
Factors Affecting Cost
The final cost of a wheel bearing replacement on a 2013 Chevy Cruze can be influenced by several factors, including:
- The specific make, model, and year of the vehicle
- The location and labor rates of the repair shop
- The availability and cost of the replacement parts
- The complexity of the repair and any additional issues found
It's always a good idea to get multiple quotes from reputable repair shops to ensure you're getting a fair and competitive price for the wheel bearing replacement on your 2013 Chevy Cruze. 7 8 9 10
What year to stay away from Chevy Cruze?
The Chevy Cruze years to avoid are primarily 2011-2015, with particular issues noted for the 2013 and 2016 model years, due to common problems like transmission failure, coolant leaks, and engine issues. The 2016 model is also mentioned for engine problems, while the 2018 year is frequently cited for engine and electrical problems.
This video discusses the most common problems with the Chevy Cruze: 58sSteeveGMTECHYouTube · Jul 22, 2025
Years with most reported problems
- 2011–2015: This first generation is widely cited as having the most issues, including transmission failure, coolant leaks, and engine problems like cracked pistons and faulty water pumps.
- 2016: This year is specifically called out for engine issues, potentially related to the 1.4T engine.
- 2018: Many owners have reported engine and electrical problems with this model year, along with a specific recall for transmission fluid leaks.
Specific issues to look out for
- Engine: Common problems include cracked pistons, faulty water pumps, and coolant leaks, particularly on 1.4T engines.
- Transmission: Harsh shifting and complete transmission failure are frequent complaints across several model years.
- Cooling System: Leaks from plastic cooling components, especially around the 100,000-mile mark, can lead to overheating and engine damage.
- Electrical: Electrical system failures, including issues with the ignition, lighting, and control modules, were common in several years.
You can watch this video to learn about common Chevy Cruze problems and fixes: 59sAJS WoodworksYouTube · May 22, 2024
How to mitigate risks
- Check the vehicle history: Always get a vehicle history report and verify that all recall work has been completed.
- Perform a pre-purchase inspection: Have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle before buying to identify any existing or potential problems.
- Be aware of mileage: Many of the common failures, such as water pump failure, occur at higher mileage (around 100,000 miles).
How much will a mechanic charge to replace a wheel bearing?
Wheel Bearing Replacement Pricing
| Service type | Typical cost range (per wheel) |
|---|---|
| Front wheel bearing replacement | $150 to $300 |
| Hub-style front bearing (additional) | $100 to $200 |
| Rear wheel bearing replacement | $200 to $500 |
| Professional shop (typical car) | $250 to $500 |
Can I still drive with a bad wheel bearing?
No, it is not safe to drive with a bad wheel bearing. While it may seem okay at first, a failing wheel bearing can lead to a wheel completely breaking off, loss of control, and further, more expensive damage to other parts of the vehicle. You should only drive the shortest possible distance to the nearest repair shop.
Risks of driving with a bad wheel bearing
This video explains how a bad wheel bearing can affect your vehicle: 50sFindTheBestCarPriceYouTube · Apr 6, 2023
- Catastrophic wheel failure: In the worst-case scenario, the bearing can completely fail, causing the wheel to detach from the vehicle while driving.
- Loss of control: A failing bearing can lead to steering issues, vibrations, and pulling to one side, all of which reduce your control over the vehicle.
- Accidents: The combination of steering problems and the risk of a wheel coming off can easily lead to a serious accident, even at low speeds.
- Damage to other components: Continuing to drive can cause collateral damage to other parts like the hub, axle, CV joint, and transmission, increasing repair costs.
- Uneven tire wear: A bad bearing can cause your tires to wear unevenly and faster than they should.
This video demonstrates the symptoms of a bad wheel bearing: 59sEasyAutoFixYouTube · Dec 22, 2022
What to do instead
- Drive only to the nearest repair shop: If absolutely necessary, drive very slowly for the shortest possible distance to get it fixed.
- Avoid the highway: Stay off high-speed roads to minimize the risk and potential for a severe accident.
- Get it replaced immediately: A bad wheel bearing is a critical safety issue that needs professional attention as soon as possible.
What is a 2013 Chevy Cruze worth today used?
2013 Chevrolet Cruze Value - $1,288-$4,661 | Edmunds.
