How often should you replace wheel bearings on a truck?

There isn’t a fixed mileage schedule for wheel bearings on a truck. In normal service, bearings can last roughly 100,000–150,000 miles (or more) before needing replacement, but life varies with loads, road conditions, and maintenance. Bearings are replaced when worn or damaged, not on a routine time interval.

What wheel bearings do and how they wear

Wheel bearings support the wheel’s rotation and help maintain proper hub alignment with minimal friction. Most modern trucks use sealed hub assemblies that may contain one or more bearings. Bearings wear from metal-to-metal contact, contamination, and insufficient lubrication; heat and moisture accelerate deterioration. When worn, they can create noise, play, vibration, or heat, and can eventually lead to hub or brake-system damage if not addressed.

Replacement intervals: is there a set schedule?

Manufacturers do not publish a universal replacement interval for wheel bearings. The lifespan depends on usage, road conditions, and maintenance. In practice, many trucks reach 100,000–150,000 miles before bearings show wear, but some fail earlier under harsh conditions (rough roads, heavy towing, water exposure) and others last beyond 200,000 miles with lighter loads and smoother roads. Front and rear bearings can wear at different rates depending on axle design and braking load.

Common symptoms indicating a wheel bearing may be worn

• Unusual grinding, humming, or growling coming from the wheel area, especially at certain speeds


• Excessive wheel play or looseness when checked for movement


• Vibration or steering shakiness, particularly at highway speeds


• Uneven tire wear or cupping on the wheel


• ABS/traction control warnings tied to a worn hub or sensor


• Excessive heat at the hub or a burning smell near the wheel

If you notice any of these signs, have the bearings inspected by a qualified technician. Driving with a failing bearing can lead to catastrophic hub failure, steering instability, or a wheel detaching.

Factors that influence bearing life

Several conditions determine how long a bearing will last in a truck. The main factors are:

• Driving conditions: rough roads, potholes, off-road use, and water exposure


• Load and towing: heavy payloads and frequent trailer towing increase bearing load


• Maintenance and environment: road salt, moisture, and quality seals or lubrication


• Bearing type and hub design: sealed hub assemblies versus serviceable bearings


• Installation quality and torque: proper torque and alignment during assembly


• Climate and temperature: extreme heat or cold can affect grease longevity

Concluding: Better road conditions and diligent maintenance extend bearing life, while harsh conditions shorten it.

Maintenance practices to extend bearing life

To help maximize bearing life, consider these maintenance practices. Note that many modern trucks use sealed hub assemblies that are replaced as a unit rather than individual bearings.

• Inspect bearings and hubs at regular service intervals for noise, play, leaks, and seal integrity


• Keep seals intact and replace compromised seals promptly to prevent water or contaminants from entering


• Avoid driving through deep water or mud at speed; rinse and clean components after exposure


• Maintain proper wheel alignment and suspension condition to minimize uneven load


• Use manufacturer-recommended parts and lubricants where applicable; ensure correct torque specs during reassembly


• Consider replacing bearings in pairs on an axle if wear is suspected on one side, to maintain balanced load

Concluding: Regular inspections and adherence to proper installation and maintenance practices help prevent premature bearing failures.

Replacing wheel bearings on a truck: practical considerations

Many trucks use hub assemblies that combine the bearing with the hub. In those cases, replacement often means swapping the entire hub assembly rather than replacing a single bearing. Front bearings can be more critical to steering performance, while rear bearings bear most of the axle load. Costs vary widely by vehicle and region, typically ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars per axle, including parts and labor. Professional replacement is common due to the need for precise torque, proper seal seating, and ABS sensor alignment. If you tow frequently or drive on rough roads, expect bearing maintenance to factor more heavily into service planning.

Summary

Bottom line: there is no universal replacement schedule for wheel bearings on a truck. Most can last many miles under favorable conditions, but life is highly variable and driven by load, road conditions, and maintenance. Rely on symptoms and professional inspections to guide replacement; proactive maintenance and careful driving can extend bearing life and prevent costly, unsafe failures. When in doubt, consult a qualified technician to assess bearing health and perform service to the manufacturer’s specifications.

How long do wheel bearings last on a truck?

Wheel bearings on a truck typically last between 85,000 to 150,000 miles, but their lifespan can be shorter depending on factors like driving conditions, weather, quality of the bearing, and proper installation. Driving in harsh conditions such as off-road, through deep water, or on roads with many potholes can significantly shorten the life of a wheel bearing. 
You can watch this video to learn how often wheel bearings need to be replaced: 53sBabcox MediaYouTube · Dec 20, 2017
Factors that affect wheel bearing lifespan

• Driving conditions: Frequent off-roading, hitting potholes, and harsh braking can cause premature wear. 
• Weather and environment: Exposure to rain, water, dirt, and road salt can cause corrosion and contamination. 
• Quality of the part: Higher-quality bearings will generally last longer than cheaper ones. 
• Installation: Improper installation or incorrect tightening of the axle nut can lead to premature failure. 
• Vehicle modifications: Lifts, spacers, or large aftermarket wheels can put additional stress on the bearings. 
• Vehicle maintenance: Worn-out shocks or struts can also cause wheel bearings to wear out faster. 

Signs that a wheel bearing needs replacement

• Noises: A humming, grinding, clicking, or rattling sound that changes with speed is a common indicator. 
• Vibration: A slight vibration or shaking felt in the steering wheel or the vehicle itself. 
• Uneven tire wear: The tires may show signs of uneven wear patterns. 
• Hot wheel hub: The wheel hub may feel unusually hot to the touch after driving. 
• Wobbling: A noticeable wobble or play in the wheel when jacked up or when the vehicle is moving. 

This video explains the signs of a failing wheel bearing and its potential impact: 57sFindTheBestCarPriceYouTube · Apr 6, 2023

What is one of the first signs of bearing failure?

Early indications of bearing failure can include machinery that is running unevenly, or at an exceptionally loud volume, or with reduced accuracy. There are also some visual signs to look for. Here are 5 common signs of bearing failure: Abrasion - Generally caused by excessive wear and friction against mating hardware.

Is replacing wheel bearings worth it?

Wheel bearings often wear out due to similar factors such as mileage, driving conditions, and maintenance practices. Thus, replacing both bearings or hubs as a preventative measure could save you from future repairs and potential safety risks.

How to tell if wheel bearings need replacing?

You can tell if wheel bearings need replacing by listening for noises like grinding, humming, or clicking, or by checking for a loose or wobbly wheel. To confirm, safely lift the vehicle and check for play by wiggling the wheel; if there's any looseness, the bearing likely needs replacement.
 
This video demonstrates how to check for wheel bearing play: 27sWay of the WrenchYouTube · Mar 25, 2021
Signs of a bad wheel bearing

• Unusual noises: Listen for humming, grinding, growling, or clicking sounds that may get louder as you drive or turn. 
• Wheel wobble or vibration: The car may feel loose, and the wheel could noticeably wobble or vibrate while driving, especially during turns. 
• Pulling to one side: The vehicle may pull to one side, which can happen as the bad bearing creates uneven wear and pressure. 
• Uneven tire wear: Check your tires for uneven wear patterns, which can indicate a problem with the wheel bearing. 

How to perform a physical check

1. Safely lift the vehicle: Jack up the car and secure it with a jack stand so the wheel is off the ground. 
2. Check for play: Grip the wheel at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions (top and bottom) and try to shake it. If you feel any side-to-side play or movement, the bearing may be bad. 
3. Spin the wheel: While the wheel is off the ground, spin it by hand. Listen for any rumbling or grinding noises. A bad bearing will often sound like it has pebbles inside it and the noise will increase with speed. 
4. Compare with other wheels: If the car is safe to drive, you can also drive at a low speed and gently steer from side to side. The noise may become louder when you steer in one direction, indicating the bearing is on the opposite side. 

You can watch this video to learn how to check for a bad wheel bearing: 57sFindTheBestCarPriceYouTube · Apr 14, 2023
What to do next

• Don't ignore it: A failing wheel bearing can lead to the wheel separating from the vehicle, which is extremely dangerous. 
• See a professional: If you suspect a bad wheel bearing, have a mechanic inspect it. They can confirm the diagnosis and replace the bearing for you. 
• Check lug nuts: Before assuming it's a bad bearing, make sure the wheel's lug nuts are tight, as a loose lug nut can cause similar symptoms.