How much does it cost to replace a wheel bearing on a fiesta?
On a Ford Fiesta, wheel bearing replacement typically costs about $300 to $600 in the United States, depending on front versus rear, hub assembly versus a pressed bearing, and local labor rates.
What drives the price
Several factors determine the final bill when you replace a wheel bearing on a Fiesta. The most common scenario on older Fiesta models is replacing a front-wheel hub assembly, while rear bearings can involve more labor and different hardware. Parts choice (aftermarket vs. OEM), whether the job requires a complete hub assembly or just a bearing, and the shop’s labor rate all play major roles. Additional tasks such as ABS sensor work or brake component replacement can also affect the total.
The following factors typically influence the cost you’ll see on a quote:
- Type of parts: hub assembly versus bearing that must be pressed in. Hub assemblies are common on Fiesta fronts and can simplify installation, but OEM hubs tend to be more expensive than aftermarket options.
- Wheel position: front-wheel bearing replacements are generally quicker and less costly than rear-wheel work on many Fiesta configurations, which can require more labor due to axle and brake linkage components.
- Part quality: aftermarket parts are usually cheaper than OEM parts, and prices vary by brand and warranty terms.
- Labor rate and location: urban areas, dealerships, and shops with high demand typically charge more per hour than independent shops in lower-cost regions.
- Additional services: if you need ABS sensor replacement, brake rotor/pad work, or an alignment, these will add to the final bill.
Understanding these factors helps you set realistic expectations and helps in comparing quotes from different shops.
Typical price ranges in the U.S.
Prices shown are rough guides based on common scenarios for the Ford Fiesta. Exact numbers depend on the model year, whether the bearing is replaced as a hub assembly, and local labor rates. The ranges below include both parts and labor.
- Front wheel bearing hub assembly replacement: roughly $300–$500 total, with OEM hubs sometimes pushing toward $400–$650 depending on brand and shop.
- Rear wheel bearing replacement: typically $350–$700 total, and higher if the job requires additional axle or brake work or a premium hub assembly.
- Bearings that require pressing in rather than a full hub assembly: parts may be cheaper (about $60–$200 for the bearing alone), but labor can be higher due to the pressing process, bringing the total into a similar or slightly higher range depending on the shop.
Prices can vary by region and vehicle specification (for example, ABS-equipped hubs or special wheel sensors can affect pricing). Always obtain a written estimate that itemizes parts and labor before authorizing the work.
What to ask when getting quotes
To ensure you’re comparing apples to apples, ask these questions when you request quotes:
- Is the price for a hub assembly replacement or a bearing-only replacement?
- Does the quote include a new ABS sensor or related hardware if required?
- Are wheel alignment or brake components included or optional?
- Does the estimate include labor for both front and rear (if both are necessary), and is there a warranty on parts and labor?
Getting multiple quotes from reputable independent shops and a Ford dealership can help you gauge the usual range in your area and choose the best value for your Fiesta.
Summary
For most Ford Fiesta owners in the United States, a wheel bearing replacement typically falls in the $300–$600 range, with front-wheel hub assemblies being the common and usually less expensive option than rear-wheel work. The exact price depends on the part type, whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used, the shop’s labor rate, and any additional services required. To avoid surprises, obtain written estimates that break out parts and labor, and consider asking about warranties on both parts and workmanship.
Is it worth fixing a wheel bearing?
If you're just driving around town, the risk might not feel urgent, but it's still a gamble. The bearing could fail at any time, and if it causes more damage, the repair could end up costing a lot more in both time and money.
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 |
How much to replace a wheel bearing on a Ford Fiesta?
Ford Fiesta Wheel bearing replacement - front (passenger side) costs on average £140 - £283. Ford Fiesta Wheel bearing replacement - rear (driver side) costs on average £140 - £283.
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.
