How much should I pay to replace wheel bearings?

Most drivers should budget roughly $300 to $700 per axle for wheel bearing replacement, including parts and labor, with higher costs for luxury vehicles or hub assemblies.

Understanding what drives the price

Wheel bearings can fail and are typically sold as either a stand-alone bearing or a hub assembly that includes the bearing and sometimes other components. Prices vary widely by vehicle design, whether a hub assembly is used, access and labor complexity, and regional labor rates.

These are the main factors that influence the price you'll see quoted by shops.

• Parts type: standalone bearing vs wheel hub assembly. Hub assemblies generally cost more upfront but can save labor time.


• Vehicle type and configuration: compact cars tend to be cheaper than SUVs or luxury models; all-wheel-drive systems and sensor integration can add cost.


• Front vs rear: prices can vary by axle depending on access and parts used.


• Labor rates and time: typical shop rates range from roughly $70 to $150 per hour; replacement often takes 1–3 hours depending on access and whether pressing is required.


• Related work: replacement often involves ABS sensors, tone rings, or brake components; these add to parts and labor costs.


• Warranty and shop type: dealer service centers are usually more expensive; warranties typically cover parts and labor for a set period.

In practice, you should expect quotes to reflect these variables, so always request a written estimate detailing parts, labor, and any related services.

Cost ranges by scenario

Prices reflect typical U.S. market ranges and can vary by location and vehicle type. The figures below assume a standard repair shop; dealer quotes are generally higher.

• Bearing-only replacement (bearing kit, not hub): Parts about $50–$150; labor about $100–$250; total per axle roughly $150–$400.


• Hub assembly replacement (bearing included): Parts about $100–$400; labor about $150–$350; total per axle roughly $250–$750.


• Luxury or SUV or all-wheel-drive vehicle: Parts about $150–$450; labor about $200–$500; total per axle roughly $350–$1,000.


• Dealership quotes vs independent shops: dealerships tend to be at the higher end; independents often save 10–30% depending on region.

Remember that these ranges are guides; specific quotes depend on your car's make/model, the exact part used, and regional labor rates. Always verify what is included in the price.

Money-saving tips

To minimize cost while ensuring safe repair, consider these strategies.

• Shop around for multiple written quotes from independent garages and, if appropriate, the dealership. Compare parts and labor lines, not just total price.


• Ask for clarification on whether the quote is for bearing-only or hub assembly replacement, and what warranties apply.


• Consider timing: if both sides may be worn, replacing both at once can sometimes save labor and may be eligible for a discount.


• Check for bundled services: some shops include brake inspection, wheel alignment, or sensor checks in the quote.


• Ask about OEM vs aftermarket parts and any impact on warranty or performance.

Note: Wheel bearing replacement is a job that requires proper tools and expertise. For many vehicles, hub replacement or pressing in bearings should be done by professionals to avoid safety issues and ensure proper calibration of sensors.

In summary, wheel bearing replacement costs are primarily driven by the type of part (bearing-only vs hub assembly), vehicle type, labor rate, and location. For most cars, expect roughly $300 to $700 per axle, with higher costs for luxury or AWD vehicles, and potentially more at a dealership. Always obtain a detailed, written estimate and ask about warranties.

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.

Is it okay to drive with a bad wheel bearing?

No, it is not safe to drive with a bad wheel bearing, as it can lead to the wheel detaching from the vehicle, resulting in a loss of control, steering problems, and potentially a serious accident. If you must drive, limit your travel to very short distances at low speeds and get the bearing replaced immediately. 
Risks of driving with a bad wheel bearing

• Wheel detachment: A severe failure can cause the wheel to separate from the car while driving. 
• Loss of control: The vehicle can become difficult to steer or lose stability, making it hazardous for you and other drivers. 
• Brake issues: A bad wheel bearing can interfere with the proper function of your brakes. 
• Further damage: Ignoring the problem can cause damage to other components, like the axle or hub, increasing repair costs. 
• Accident: Ultimately, a complete failure is a major safety risk that can cause a severe accident. 

This video explains how to diagnose a bad wheel bearing: 40sWay of the WrenchYouTube · Mar 25, 2021
What you should do

• Avoid driving: The safest option is to have the vehicle towed to a mechanic for repair. 
• Drive short distances only: If you absolutely must drive, limit your trip to the nearest repair shop. Drive slowly and avoid highways and heavy loads. 
• Check for symptoms: Be aware of common signs, such as a humming, grinding, or rumbling noise that gets worse with speed or turning, excessive play in the steering, or vibrations in the steering wheel. 

You can also watch this video to learn more about the risks of driving with a bad wheel bearing: 50sFindTheBestCarPriceYouTube · Apr 6, 2023

How much does a garage charge to change a wheel bearing?

Additionally, labour costs for installation may vary depending on the mechanic you choose. As a rough estimate, the price for a single wheel bearing can range from £150 to £250. However, this is only an approximate range, and the actual cost can be higher or lower depending on the factors mentioned above.

Is it expensive to replace wheel bearings?

Replacing a wheel bearing can be expensive, with typical costs ranging from $150 to $500 per wheel for a professional shop, depending on the vehicle and location. The final price is influenced by labor costs, which often make up the majority of the expense, and the price of the parts, which can be between $50 and $300. For certain cars, particularly higher-end or heavy-duty models, costs can be higher, potentially reaching $800 or more per wheel, especially if more complex components are involved. 
Factors that influence the cost

• Vehicle type: Rear wheel bearings or those on heavier-duty/high-end vehicles are often more expensive due to more complex suspension systems or beefier components. 
• Parts: The cost of the part itself varies, but it is often sold as a full hub assembly, which may include the ABS sensor. Replacing the entire hub can reduce labor time but increase part cost. 
• Labor: Labor is a significant part of the total cost, especially if the job is complex or requires special tools. 
• Additional services: A wheel alignment may be recommended after a replacement, adding $100-$200 to the total bill. 
• Vehicle-specific issues: If components are seized, sensors need replacement, or a diagnostic test is needed, the total cost will increase. 

Ways to potentially reduce the cost

• DIY replacement: If you have the necessary tools and mechanical skills, you can save a significant amount of money by doing it yourself. 
• Shop around: Get quotes from multiple shops, including independent mechanics and larger chains, to compare prices. 
• Focus on replacement: While it may be tempting to just replace the bearing itself, some mechanics will only replace the entire hub assembly, which can increase the price.