How much will a shop charge to replace a wheel bearing?
The cost to replace a wheel bearing at a shop can vary, but typically ranges from $200 to $400 per wheel bearing. This includes the parts, labor, and any additional fees the shop may charge. The exact cost will depend on factors such as the make and model of your vehicle, the complexity of the repair, and the shop's labor rates.
Factors Affecting Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost
Several factors can influence the cost of replacing a wheel bearing at a shop:
- Parts Cost: The cost of the new wheel bearing itself can range from $50 to $150 or more, depending on the vehicle and the quality of the replacement part.
- Labor Costs: Labor costs can vary widely, with most shops charging between $75 and $150 per hour for the time it takes to remove the old bearing and install the new one.
- Vehicle Complexity: Some vehicles, such as those with all-wheel drive or independent suspension, may require more time and effort to access and replace the wheel bearing, resulting in higher labor costs.
- Shop Fees: Shops may also charge additional fees, such as a diagnostic fee, a disposal fee for the old bearing, or a shop supply fee to cover the cost of tools and materials used in the repair.
It's important to note that the cost can also vary depending on the shop's location, the technician's experience, and any warranties or discounts the shop may offer.
Replacing a Wheel Bearing Yourself
If you're mechanically inclined, you may be able to save money by replacing the wheel bearing yourself. However, this can be a complex and time-consuming task, and it's important to have the right tools and follow the proper safety precautions. Attempting a wheel bearing replacement without the necessary skills and equipment can lead to further damage to your vehicle and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
Overall, the cost to replace a wheel bearing at a shop is typically in the range of $200 to $400 per wheel bearing, but the exact price can vary based on the factors mentioned above. It's always a good idea to get quotes from multiple shops and compare prices before deciding on the best option for your vehicle and budget.
Can you temporarily fix a bad wheel bearing?
Unfortunately you can't: the only solution to a worn, noisy wheel bearing is to have it replaced by a garage; bearings are not repairable.
Is fixing a wheel bearing a big job?
On a modern vehicle, a wheel bearing replacement can be a moderately difficult job, requiring a bearing press tool. If it's an older vehicle using a typical spindle and brake hub-mounted bearing set, it should be done with each rotor/drum replacement.
How long does it take a shop to replace wheel bearing?
This makes it difficult to apply a catch-all time estimate, but you can tend to expect about 30 minutes to an hour and a half for front bearings and 15 to 45 minutes for rear wheel bearings.
What is one of the first signs of bearing failure?
Excessive noise
If your bearing is suddenly noisy during operation, you're looking at a bearing failure. This excess noise is created when the raceways of the bearing have become damaged, causing the rolling elements to bounce or rattle during rotation.
Can I still drive with a bad wheel bearing?
Driving with a worn or damaged wheel bearing is not safe. Here are some reasons why: Increased Risk of Failure: A bad wheel bearing can lead to complete failure, which may cause the wheel to detach from the vehicle while driving. This can result in a loss of control and a serious accident.
How much should a wheel bearing job cost?
On average, replacing a front wheel bearing costs between $150 and $300 per wheel, including labor If you have a hub-style bearing instead of individual bearing assemblies, it could be about $100 to $200 higher. Rear wheel bearings, particularly on vehicles with sealed hubs, may range from $200 to $500 per wheel.
