How much is a wheel bearing for a Ford Focus?
A wheel bearing for a Ford Focus typically costs between about 50 and 350 for the part, depending on the year, model, and supplier; labor to install it usually adds roughly 100 to 250 per axle. In practice, most Focus owners buy a hub assembly rather than a serviceable bearing, so total per-axle cost often falls in the several-hundred-dollar range.
The price question spans multiple generations of the Focus (from early 2000s models to newer versions), differences between front and rear hubs, and whether you choose a Genuine Ford/OEM hub or an aftermarket replacement. This article outlines typical prices, what drives them, and what to expect during installation.
What drives the price
Prices depend on the hub type, place of purchase, and vehicle specifics. Here is a quick breakdown of the main factors you should know before buying.
OEM vs aftermarket
OEM hub assemblies sourced from Ford or its approved suppliers tend to be more expensive but carry the warranty and guaranteed compatibility. Aftermarket hubs from reputable brands are usually cheaper and widely available.
- OEM hub assemblies: typically about 180–350 per hub at the dealer or through Ford-approved channels.
- Aftermarket hub assemblies: commonly 50–200 per hub, depending on brand and whether it's new or remanufactured.
- Bearing-only replacements: for Focus models that still allow serviceable bearings, individual bearing kits exist but are less common; most people replace the hub assembly.
Prices vary by model year and region; always verify exact part numbers before purchase.
Front vs rear and hub vs bearing
In most Focus generations, the wheel bearing portion is integrated into a hub assembly, and replacement is done by swapping the whole unit rather than replacing an individual bearing race. Front hubs are typically more prone to wear due to braking and steering forces, but rear hub wear occurs as well in many models. Be prepared to replace the whole hub assembly rather than a serviceable bearing in most cases.
Where to buy and expected prices
Prices vary by retailer and region. Here's a snapshot of typical price ranges by source in the United States (prices may differ in other countries).
- Ford dealer or OEM supplier: roughly 200–350 per hub, with higher prices for newer models or specialty trims.
- Auto parts stores (Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, O'Reilly): typically 70–250 per hub, depending on brand and whether it's a remanufactured unit.
- Online retailers / wholesalers (RockAuto, eBay Motors, Amazon): often 50–200 per hub for aftermarket brands; shipping may apply.
- Labor costs: most shops charge 75–150 per hour; replacement typically takes about 1–2 hours per axle, so labor can run roughly 75–300 per axle.
Factor in tax, core charges, and any associated brake or ABS sensor replacement when budgeting.
What to expect during the repair
Replacing a wheel hub assembly is a moderately involved job. A shop will lift the car, remove the brake caliper and rotor, detach the old hub, and bolt in the new hub. Some generations also require removal of the axle nut and sensor considerations. A wheel alignment may be recommended after installation depending on whether any suspension components were disturbed.
Summary
For a Ford Focus, the cost of the wheel bearing (hub assembly) ranges widely depending on generation and supplier: aftermarket hubs commonly cost 50–200 per hub, while OEM Ford hubs can cost 180–350 or more. Labor typically adds 75–300 per axle. In total, many repairs fall in the low-to-mid hundreds per axle, though dealer quotes can be higher. Always verify compatibility with your exact model year and consider shopping around for parts and labor to get the best deal.
