How much does it cost to replace a wheel bearing on a Ford f150?

Typically about $250 to $550 per wheel, including parts and labor. Prices vary depending on whether you’re replacing a front or rear wheel bearing, whether you install a full hub assembly or bearing-only, and the local labor rate. Dealers generally charge more than independent shops.

What affects the price

Before listing the factors that influence your final quote, here is an overview of the main elements that drive cost.

• Front vs rear wheel bearing/hub assembly: Front hubs are often more complex and pricier than rear hubs on many F-150 models.


• Hub assembly versus bearing replacement: Modern hubs are usually sold as an integrated hub assembly; bearing-only replacements are less common on newer trucks.


• OEM vs aftermarket parts: OEM hubs tend to cost more; aftermarket hubs can offer substantial savings but with variable fitment or warranty differences.


• Labor rate by location: Urban areas and specialty shops typically charge higher hourly rates than rural shops.


• Drive configuration and model year: 4WD/AWD and newer generations may require additional steps or parts, increasing cost.


• Related services: Brake inspection, rotor replacement, wheel alignment, ABS sensor work, and axle seals can add to the total.

In practice, quotes rise when both sides are done at once, when dealer service is chosen, or when ancillary work is recommended during the diagnosis.

Estimated price ranges

What the price typically covers

Parts and labor are generally included in the quoted price, with variations based on part type and area.

• Parts: Front hub assemblies (including ABS sensor) typically range from about $120 to $350 per wheel for aftermarket parts; OEM hubs can run roughly $180 to $450 per wheel. Rear hub assemblies commonly fall in the $100 to $250 per wheel range; bearing-only replacements (when feasible) can be cheaper.


• Labor: Typical labor time is about 1.5 to 3 hours per wheel, depending on access and drive configuration; hourly shop rates usually span from $80 to $150, with higher rates in urban or dealership settings.


• Total per wheel: A common ballpark is $250 to $550 per wheel, though in high-cost markets or at a dealership, quotes can reach $600 to $900 per wheel.

Overall, most Ford F-150 owners see a few hundred dollars per wheel in typical situations, with higher costs in certain markets or for all-new hub assemblies on the front axle.

Front vs rear and drive configuration implications

The cost difference between front and rear replacements stems from the hub design, sensor integration, and accessibility. Many newer F-150s use integrated hub assemblies that include the wheel-speed sensor; these are usually more expensive than traditional bearing races. All-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive models can add complexity and time, which increases labor charges.

• Front-wheel hubs are often more expensive and time-consuming due to the more frequent bearing wear and sensor integration.


• Rear hubs may be simpler on some models but can require axle or seal work if corrosion or wear is present.

Knowing your drive type and model year helps vendors provide a more accurate estimate, as costs differ noticeably across F-150 generations.

Budgeting and saving tips

To avoid surprises, consider these practical steps when planning a wheel bearing replacement.

• Shop around: Get quotes from independent shops, national chains, and Ford dealerships to compare parts and labor estimates.


• Ask about parts: If you’re comfortable with aftermarket hubs, you can often save 20–50% compared with OEM parts; confirm warranty terms.


• Consider replacing both sides when needed: If both bearings show wear, doing both at once can save repeat labor costs on a second service visit.


• Check for bundled services: Some shops offer brake inspection or rotor resurfacing as part of the brake system check when you’re already on the lift.

With these considerations, you can set a realistic budget and avoid sticker-shock when the mechanic quotes the job.

Typical replacement process

Understanding the steps helps set expectations for time and potential added costs.

1. Lift the vehicle, secure it, and remove the wheel and brake components to access the hub.


2. Remove the old hub assembly (or bearing) and inspect related parts such as the axle shaft and ABS sensor.


3. Install the new hub assembly (or press in the bearing), torque fasteners to spec, and reassemble brakes and wheel.


4. Test drive to verify proper operation and confirm ABS sensor activity and absence of abnormal noise or play.

Note: In some cases, the knuckle, axle, or related components may require replacement due to corrosion or damage, which can add to both cost and labor time.

Summary

Replacing a wheel bearing on a Ford F-150 typically costs around $250 to $550 per wheel, including parts and labor. Front hubs (often with ABS sensors) tend to be more expensive than rear hubs, and prices are higher in dealer settings or costly regions. For the most accurate estimate, obtain quotes from multiple shops, confirm whether the price uses OEM or aftermarket parts, and consider whether both sides may be serviced together to save on labor. Regular maintenance and timely replacement can prevent more extensive axle or brake issues down the line.

How much does it cost to replace wheel bearings on a Ford F150?

What is the average price of 2018 Ford F-150 Front Wheel Bearings? 2018 Ford F-150 Front Wheel Bearings average $231.15 for our selection of OEM and aftermarket parts.

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.

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. 

How do I know if my F150 wheel bearings are bad?

Steering Wheel Vibration
Bad wheel bearings can cause the steering wheel to vibrate, and those vibrations might also be felt in the seats and floorboards. The intensity increases as the vehicle speed increases and the vehicle turns to the left or right.