How much does it cost to replace a wheel bearing on a Ford?
Most Ford wheel bearing replacements cost roughly $250–$700 installed for passenger cars, and about $450–$1,100 for trucks or SUVs. The exact price depends on the model, whether you replace just the bearing or the hub assembly, and local labor rates.
What drives the cost
Replacing a wheel bearing involves parts, labor, and sometimes additional work. The major cost drivers are:
- Whether the part is a standalone bearing or a hub assembly with an integrated ABS sensor
- Whether the replacement is for the front or the rear axle
- Vehicle model and drivetrain (standard, AWD, or 4WD)
- Local labor rates and shop equipment needs
- Quality of parts (OEM, OEM-equivalent, or aftermarket)
- Any extra repairs found during service (brakes, rotors, calipers, seals)
Understanding these factors helps set expectations for quotes and avoid surprises during service.
Estimated cost ranges by scenario
These ranges reflect common Ford configurations and typical shop labor rates in the United States as of 2024–2025. Prices vary by region and shop, and OEM parts may cost more than aftermarket equivalents.
- Front wheel bearing hub replacement (common on most Ford sedans and SUVs): Parts $100–$350; Labor $150–$350; Total installed $250–$700
- Rear wheel bearing or rear hub replacement: Parts $100–$300; Labor $150–$350; Total installed $250–$650
- Front hub assembly with ABS sensor (premium variants or certain trims): Parts $150–$500; Labor $200–$400; Total installed $350–$900
- Heavy-duty or AWD models (e.g., F-150, Expedition, Explorer with AWD): Parts $200–$550; Labor $250–$600; Total installed $450–$1,100
Note: Prices vary by region and shop. OEM parts may cost more, while aftermarket equivalents can save money but may affect warranty and fitment.
Do-it-yourself vs professional service
Wheel bearing replacement is technically feasible for handy DIYers but requires special tools and careful procedure, particularly for hub assemblies with ABS sensors. For most drivers, professional installation ensures proper seating, sensor alignment, and braking integrity.
Safety and considerations
Improper installation can lead to safety issues, uneven wear, and brake system problems. If you notice grinding, humming noises, or wheel play, have the vehicle inspected promptly.
What to expect during a service visit
Typical service visits include diagnosis, part replacement, brake inspection, wheel torque checks, and a test drive. If the hub includes an ABS sensor, the shop may scan for codes and reset the system after installation.
Summary
Wheel bearing replacement costs for Ford vehicles vary widely by model and configuration. In general, expect about $250–$700 for front-wheel bearing hub replacements on most passenger cars, $250–$650 for rear replacements, and up to $1,100 or more for heavy-duty AWD trucks or hub assemblies with integrated ABS sensors. Always obtain a written estimate detailing parts (OEM vs aftermarket), labor hours, and any additional needed services, and consider getting a second quote to compare. Proper maintenance and timely replacement help prevent further damage and higher costs.
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.
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 does it cost to replace wheel bearings on a Ford F150?
The cost to replace a Ford F-150 wheel bearing ranges from approximately $250 to over $1,500 per wheel, depending on the vehicle's year, whether the front or rear wheel is being replaced, and where you have the work done. Parts can cost $50 to $250 or more for a quality hub assembly, and labor can add $100 to $500 or more, with front wheel replacements often being cheaper than rear ones.
Cost breakdown
This video demonstrates the cost to replace a wheel bearing and hub assembly on a Ford F-150: 52sAmericanTrucks FordYouTube · Mar 11, 2024
- Parts: The cost of a replacement hub and bearing assembly typically ranges from $50 to $250 or more, depending on the brand and quality.
- Labor: Labor costs can range from $100 to over $500, with front wheels often being less complex to replace than rear wheels, especially on 4x4 models.
- Total cost per wheel (professional shop):
- Average: $250 to $500
- Front: $150 to $300, plus part cost
- Rear: $200 to $500 or more
- Total cost for one wheel: Some estimates put the total cost for a single wheel replacement between $245 and $860, with some shop/dealer prices potentially reaching over $1,500, especially for higher-end models or extensive work.
- Total cost for both front wheels: Some F-150 owners have reported paying around $700 to $1,300 for both front wheel bearings, notes Reddit users.
Factors that influence cost
- Vehicle Model and Year: Older or less common models can have higher costs due to fewer available parts.
- Location: Prices can vary significantly based on the cost of labor in your area.
- Front vs. Rear: Rear wheel bearing replacements can be more expensive due to increased complexity and required disassembly.
- Brand and Quality: The brand and quality of the replacement parts will impact the final price.
- DIY vs. Professional: Doing it yourself can save you significant money on labor, but requires the right tools and mechanical experience.
This video explains how to check for wheel bearing noise: 48sGoTechYouTube · Aug 3, 2022
