Is replacing a wheel bearing expensive?

Replacing a wheel bearing can be a moderately expensive repair, typically costing between $200 to $400 for parts and labor. The exact cost will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the specific wheel bearing that needs to be replaced.

What is a Wheel Bearing?

A wheel bearing is a set of steel balls or rollers that are housed in a metal ring, allowing the wheel to spin smoothly and freely. Wheel bearings are an essential component of a vehicle's suspension and drivetrain, as they help reduce friction and wear on the wheel assembly. Over time, wheel bearings can become worn out, leading to increased noise, vibration, and even potential wheel failure if not addressed.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Wheel Bearing Replacement

• Vehicle Make and Model: The cost of a wheel bearing replacement can vary significantly depending on the specific make and model of your vehicle. Luxury or high-performance vehicles may have more complex or specialized wheel bearing assemblies, leading to higher replacement costs.


• Labor Costs: The labor involved in replacing a wheel bearing can be time-consuming, as it often requires removing the wheel, brake components, and other suspension parts to access the bearing. Labor rates can vary widely depending on your location and the mechanic or shop performing the work.


• Parts Costs: The cost of the replacement wheel bearing itself can also vary, with some bearings costing more than others due to factors like material quality, design, and brand.


• Accessibility: If the wheel bearing is located in a difficult-to-access area of the vehicle, the labor costs may be higher due to the additional time and effort required to complete the repair.

It's important to note that while wheel bearing replacement can be a significant expense, it's a critical repair that should not be ignored, as a failing wheel bearing can lead to further damage to the wheel, suspension, or even the entire vehicle if left unaddressed.

Signs of a Failing Wheel Bearing

Some common signs that a wheel bearing may be failing include:

• Unusual noise, such as a grinding, humming, or whirring sound, coming from the wheel area


• Vibration or wobbling in the steering wheel or the vehicle itself


• Uneven or premature tire wear


• Difficulty steering or a feeling of looseness in the steering wheel

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to determine the cause and address the issue before it leads to more serious and costly problems.

Does AutoZone do wheel bearings?

AutoZone has you covered with a wide variety of wheel bearing and wheel seals. Maybe you need a wheel bearing and hub assembly - we carry that too. Every product is custom-fit to slide perfectly into your specific wheel make and size.

Is it worth fixing a wheel bearing?

Yes, it is absolutely worth replacing wheel bearings once they show signs of wear or damage, as a failure can lead to a loss of control, a wheel separating from the vehicle, and significant additional damage to other components. Driving with bad wheel bearings is a serious safety risk and should be avoided. 
This video explains the signs of a bad wheel bearing and how often to replace them: 56scar PROblemsYouTube · Feb 1, 2024
Why replacing is essential

• Safety: A failed wheel bearing can cause a wheel to lock up or even detach while driving, which can result in a serious accident. 
• Preventing further damage: A failing bearing can damage other expensive components, such as the steering and suspension systems, which will lead to more costly repairs. 
• Maintaining control: Good wheel bearings are crucial for maintaining steering control and stability. 

Signs that a wheel bearing needs replacement

• Unusual noises: A humming, grinding, or growling sound that changes with speed is a common and primary indicator. 
• Uneven tire wear: Worn bearings can cause a wheel to wobble, leading to faster and uneven wear on the tire. 
• Steering wheel vibration: You may feel vibrations in the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds or when turning. 
• ABS warning light: In some cases, a bad wheel bearing can cause the anti-lock braking system (ABS) or traction control light to illuminate. 
• Abnormal pulling: The vehicle may pull to one side when you are driving. 

You can watch this video to see how to check for a bad wheel bearing: 1mRatchets And WrenchesYouTube · Oct 26, 2019
When to replace

• It's a gamble to drive with a failing wheel bearing. 
• Replace a bearing as soon as you notice signs of failure to ensure safe operation and prevent more expensive repairs. 
• Some mechanics recommend replacing wheel bearings in pairs (both on the same axle) to ensure consistent performance and to avoid needing to replace the other side soon after, though this depends on budget and the condition of the other bearing. 

Can you drive your car with a bad wheel bearing?

No, you should not drive with a bad wheel bearing because it is dangerous and can lead to the wheel falling off. A failing bearing can cause a loss of control, a crash, or the wheel to lock up suddenly. While you might be able to drive a very short distance to a nearby repair shop, you should avoid highways, drive slowly, and get the vehicle fixed immediately.
 
This video explains the symptoms of a bad wheel bearing: 59sEasyAutoFixYouTube · Dec 22, 2022
Dangers of driving with a bad wheel bearing

• Wheel detachment: The most severe risk is the wheel coming off the vehicle while driving, which can cause a catastrophic accident. 
• Loss of control: A failing bearing can cause a sudden seizure, wheel lock-up, or extreme vibration, leading to a loss of steering control. 
• Damage to other parts: Continuing to drive can cause further damage to other expensive components like the hub, CV joint, or axle. 
• Unexpected failure: Even if the bearing is just noisy, a sudden failure can occur without warning, especially at high speeds. 

What to do instead

• Get it fixed immediately: The only safe solution is to replace the bad wheel bearing as soon as possible. 
• If you must drive: If it is absolutely unavoidable to drive the vehicle, do so only for a very short distance and at a slow speed. Avoid highways and any high-speed driving. 
• Listen for warning signs: A bad wheel bearing will often make a grinding, humming, or clicking noise that changes with speed, or cause vibrations or pulling to one side. Recognizing these signs can prevent an accident. 

Is it expensive to replace a wheel bearing?

The national average is about $350 to fix the wheel bearings at one wheel. As you might imagine, however, luxury brands cost more.