How often do Subaru wheel bearings need to be replaced?
Subaru wheel bearings typically need to be replaced every 80,000 to 100,000 miles, or about every 5-7 years of normal driving. However, the exact replacement interval can vary depending on factors like driving conditions, vehicle usage, and maintenance history. It's important to have your Subaru's wheel bearings inspected regularly and replaced as needed to ensure safe and reliable operation.
What Are Wheel Bearings and Why Do They Need Replacement?
Wheel bearings are essential components in a vehicle's suspension system that allow the wheels to spin freely while supporting the weight of the car. Over time, these bearings can wear down due to normal use, causing increased friction, noise, and potential safety issues if not addressed. Replacing worn wheel bearings helps maintain proper wheel alignment, improve handling, and prevent more costly repairs down the line.
Factors Affecting Subaru Wheel Bearing Lifespan
Several factors can influence how often Subaru wheel bearings need to be replaced, including:
- Driving Conditions: Vehicles driven in harsh environments like off-road, heavy snow, or coastal areas with high salt exposure tend to wear out wheel bearings faster.
- Vehicle Usage: Cars that carry heavy loads or tow trailers regularly will put more stress on the wheel bearings, shortening their lifespan.
- Maintenance History: Proper maintenance, such as regular inspections and prompt replacement of worn bearings, can help extend their useful life.
It's important to have a Subaru technician inspect the wheel bearings during routine service appointments to catch any issues early and ensure the vehicle remains safe to drive.
Signs Your Subaru Needs New Wheel Bearings
Some common symptoms that may indicate it's time to replace the wheel bearings on your Subaru include:
- Unusual Noises: Grinding, rumbling, or whirring sounds coming from the wheels.
- Vibrations: Feeling a vibration or wobble in the steering wheel or chassis.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Premature or uneven wear on the tires, which can be a sign of misalignment caused by worn bearings.
- Difficulty Steering: Increased effort required to turn the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
If you notice any of these issues, it's best to have your Subaru inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your safety on the road.
What causes Subaru bearing failure?
Why Do Rod Bearings Commonly Fail on Subarus? Well… it all has to do with oil, the oiling system, and the general small surface area of Subaru rod bearing. Oil contamination or “dirty oil” causes little scratches or scoring on the bearings which impedes them from keeping a consistent oil film.
Can I drive with a bad wheel bearing?
Can I drive with a bad wheel bearing? No, it can be very dangerous. The bearings can cause a severe problem if they malfunction. As we said before, extreme heat can be caused by friction, and this can cause a sudden seize of the bearing, causing the wheel to get blocked at whatever speed we are driving at that moment.
How much does it cost to fix a wheel bearing on a Subaru?
What's the cost for wheel bearing replacement on my Subaru. For a national average across all vehicles, the average cost to replace the wheel bearings (for 1 wheel) is about $350.
At what mileage do wheel bearings go bad?
Wheel bearings typically need to be replaced every 85000 to 100000 miles, but this can vary based on driving conditions and vehicle type. Signs that your wheel bearings may need replacement include:
How long do Subaru wheel bearings last?
How long does a wheel bearing last? Wheel bearings have an average lifespan of 136,000 to 160,000 km (approximately 85,000 to 100,000 miles). This is only a rule of thumb though, the actual lifespan of a wheel bearing depends on the quality of the wheel bearing and the operating conditions.
What are the signs of a bad wheel bearing?
Signs of a bad wheel bearing
- Noise. This is the most obvious one.
- Car looseness. This one is also very clear and logical, the bearing is allocated between mechanisms that work very tight, if the bearing gets worn out, then, all the systems will get loose and you will feel the car.
- Heat.
- Steering wheel pulling.
How many hours does it take to replace a wheel bearing?
Front Wheel Bearings – Hub Style
These bearings are unbolted from the steering knuckle, and a new bearing bolted on. Expect to pay for 1-2 hours of labor to replace per side, usually between $80-200.00.
How do I know if my Subaru wheel bearings are bad?
Your wheel bearing might be bad if you hear unusual sounds like humming, squeaking, or clicking. Some experts say a bad wheel bearing can sound like a bird chirping. Also, if your car wobbles or pulls to one side, you will want to get it checked.
Can I still drive with a bad wheel bearing?
Can I drive with a bad wheel bearing? No, it can be very dangerous. The bearings can cause a severe problem if they malfunction. As we said before, extreme heat can be caused by friction, and this can cause a sudden seize of the bearing, causing the wheel to get blocked at whatever speed we are driving at that moment.
Should I replace all 4 wheel bearings at once?
If your budget allows, it might be prudent to change both components simultaneously to minimize future repair costs. However, if you are facing budget constraints, replacing only the failed part is an option, provided the other side is in good condition.
