How much does it cost to replace a wheel bearing on a Acura?
For most Acura models, replacing a wheel bearing (hub assembly) per wheel typically costs about $350 to $900, including parts and labor. Higher-end OEM hub components and regional labor rates can push the price toward the upper end.
What goes into the price
The total you pay covers parts, labor, and any related services. The exact amount depends on whether you choose aftermarket versus original equipment manufacturer (OEM) hub assemblies, the front or rear position of the wheel, your vehicle model, and the shop’s labor rate. Here is a breakdown of the major cost components.
- Parts: The wheel hub bearing is usually sold as a single hub assembly. Aftermarket hubs can range from roughly $50 to $200 per wheel, while OEM hubs from Acura dealers commonly run about $150 to $350 per wheel. Some vehicles require additional sensors or seals, which can add to the cost.
- Labor: Most wheel bearing/hub replacements take about 1.5 to 3 hours of labor. At typical shop rates of about $80 to $150 per hour, labor can run roughly $120 to $450 per wheel depending on local rates and vehicle access.
- Front vs rear: Front-wheel bearing replacement is often more expensive due to dual hub assemblies, ABS sensors, and steering components; rear bearing jobs can be cheaper but still labor-intensive on some models.
- Vehicle model and complexity: Larger SUVs such as the MDX or RDX may have higher parts costs and longer labor times than compact sedans like the ILX or TLX, reflecting design differences and sensor integration.
- Additional services: If the brake rotors, sensors, or ABS tone rings are worn, shops may recommend replacing or verifying them, which can increase the total price. A wheel alignment is also commonly performed after a hub replacement and adds to cost.
Prices vary widely; always obtain multiple quotes and confirm whether the estimate includes parts, labor, and any recommended related services such as alignment or brakes.
Typical price ranges by scenario
Below are approximate ranges you can expect in the United States, noting that prices can vary by region and exact model.
- Front-wheel drive Acura (front hub assembly replacement): parts roughly $60 to $350; labor roughly $150 to $600; total per wheel commonly around $210 to $950.
- All-wheel drive or Acura SUVs (front and rear hubs): parts roughly $60 to $350 per hub; labor roughly $150 to $650 per wheel; total per wheel commonly around $210 to $1000.
- OEM vs aftermarket: OEM hub assemblies tend to be pricier but may come with a longer warranty; aftermarket hubs can save money if compatible and properly rated.
In practice, most owners see per-wheel replacement costs in the ballpark of $350 to $900, with higher quotes possible on newer models or at a dealership. If replacing more than one wheel, some shops offer multi-wheel pricing or discounts on labor.
Ways to save money
Before committing to service, consider these strategies to reduce costs while maintaining safety and reliability.
- Get multiple written quotes from both independent shops and dealerships to compare labor rates and parts pricing.
- Consider aftermarket hub assemblies if you’re comfortable with non-OEM parts and the parts are compatible; ensure warranty terms and reliability.
- Bundle services when possible (for example, plan a brake inspection or alignment in the same visit) to reduce overall labor charges.
Also, ask about any required wheel alignment after the replacement and whether any ABS sensors or tone rings need inspection. Timely replacement can prevent further damage to related components.
What to expect during the service
Technicians will lift the vehicle, remove the wheel, and replace the hub assembly (which includes the bearing) if necessary. They will inspect the brake system, ABS sensor, and surrounding components, reinstall the wheel, and perform a test drive to verify proper operation.
Note that prices can vary by country or region outside the United States; always check local quotes from trusted shops.
Summary
Wheel bearing replacement costs for an Acura are highly dependent on model, position (front vs rear), part choice (OEM vs aftermarket), and local labor rates. Expect roughly $350 to $900 per wheel as a rough average in the U.S., with the potential for higher quotes at dealerships or on newer, more complex models. Always obtain multiple estimates and ask for a detailed breakdown of parts and labor to make an informed decision.
