Is it OK to replace just one wheel bearing?
Yes. In most cases, you can replace a single failing wheel bearing without replacing the opposite side. Still, it’s wise to inspect the other wheel for wear and discuss the best approach with your mechanic, especially on vehicles with older hubs or integrated bearing assemblies.
Understanding wheel bearings and why they fail
Wheel bearings allow the wheel to rotate smoothly with minimal friction. In modern vehicles, many wheel bearings come as part of a sealed hub assembly, sometimes with an ABS sensor integrated. When a bearing wears or is damaged, you may hear noise, feel vibration, or notice rough steering. Several factors can accelerate wear, including rough roads, improper installation, overloading, and exposure to debris or heat from braking components.
How a wheel bearing functions
Bearings support the wheel’s rotation inside the hub, maintaining proper alignment and load distribution. A worn bearing can produce play, rumble, or binding, especially at certain speeds or while braking.
Common signs of bearing trouble
- Rumbling, grinding, or growling noise that changes with speed
- Vibration or shimmy in the steering wheel or vehicle body
- Wheel feels loose or has noticeable play when jacked up
- ABS warning light or fault codes related to wheel speed sensors
- Altered braking feel or uneven tire wear
One wheel bearing vs. replacing in pairs
When deciding whether to replace just one bearing or both sides, consider the following factors. The decision can depend on the vehicle’s design, current wear on the opposite side, and your maintenance goals.
- Vehicle design and hub type: Some cars use serviceable bearings; others use sealed hub assemblies that are replaced as a unit. In many modern designs, you replace the whole hub on the affected wheel.
- Wear on the opposite side: If the other wheel’s bearing shows signs of wear or is close to the end of its life, replacing both sides at once may prevent future failures and noise migration.
- ABS sensors and integration: If the hub includes a wheel-speed sensor or tone ring, replacement can be simpler with a new hub unit on that wheel.
- Cost and labor: Replacing a single bearing is usually cheaper upfront, but if the other side is near failure, pairing may offer better long-term value.
- Reliability and balance: Replacing only one worn bearing can restore proper function, but uneven wear on the other side could lead to handling changes over time.
In practice, most drivers replace only the failing bearing when the other side is healthy. If you’re unsure, have a technician inspect both sides and discuss a plan that fits your vehicle’s design and mileage.
What to expect during replacement
The replacement process can vary by car and by whether the bearing is serviceable or part of a sealed hub. It’s a moderately advanced job that requires accurate torque specifications and, in some cases, a press or specialized tools. If you’re not experienced with suspension work, it’s best done by a professional.
Typical steps you may encounter include the following sequence:
- Diagnose and confirm that the noise or play is due to the wheel-end bearing rather than brakes, CV joints, or tires.
- Prepare parts and tools: new hub assembly or bearing, seals, lubricant as required, and a torque wrench.
- Lift the vehicle, remove the wheel and brake components as needed to access the hub.
- Remove the old hub/bearing unit: if it’s a sealed hub, unfasten it from the knuckle; if it’s a serviceable bearing, press out the old races.
- Install the new hub or bearing: ensure correct orientation, replace seals, reconnect the ABS sensor if present, and torque fasteners to specification.
- Reassemble components, torque lug nuts, and lower the vehicle.
- Test drive to verify noise is eliminated and that there are no abnormal handling signs; follow any break-in recommendations from the manufacturer if applicable.
Note that exact steps and tools vary by vehicle. A professional shop will ensure proper alignment of the wheel-end components and verify braking and ABS function after installation.
Costs, warranties, and safety considerations
Costs vary widely depending on the vehicle model, whether a sealed hub is replaced, and local labor rates. Parts and labor can add up, especially if the hub assembly includes an ABS sensor or requires more complex removal. Warranties on parts and labor provide peace of mind and can influence the decision to replace one side or both.
Typical guidance on expenses:
- Parts: hub assembly with bearing (often includes the ABS sensor) generally ranges from about $70 to $400 per wheel, depending on make/model.
- Labor: shop rates vary; a typical hub/bearing replacement can take 1–3 hours depending on access and vehicle design.
- Total per wheel: ballpark figures often run from approximately $250 to $900, depending on parts, labor, and taxes in your area.
Shop around for quotes, and consider whether replacing a second wheel at the same time makes sense for reliability. Ensure any work comes with a warranty on parts and labor and uses components compatible with your vehicle.
Summary
Replacing a single wheel bearing is generally acceptable when that wheel shows clear signs of wear or damage. Vehicle design, the presence of integrated sensors, and the condition of the opposite side influence the decision to replace one or both hubs. Proper installation, torque, and testing are essential, and when in doubt, a professional technician can confirm diagnosis and ensure safe, reliable operation. Regular inspection of wheel-end components helps prevent unexpected failures and maintains optimal handling and braking performance.
