What is the life expectancy of a wheel bearing?
Wheel bearings are essential components of a vehicle's suspension system, responsible for supporting the weight of the vehicle and allowing the wheels to rotate smoothly. The lifespan of a wheel bearing can vary depending on several factors, but on average, they can last anywhere from 80,000 to 160,000 miles before needing replacement.
Factors Affecting Wheel Bearing Lifespan
The lifespan of a wheel bearing is influenced by a variety of factors, including:
- Driving Conditions: Wheel bearings in vehicles that are driven in harsh conditions, such as off-road or in heavy traffic, tend to wear out faster than those in vehicles used for highway driving.
- Maintenance: Proper maintenance, such as regular lubrication and inspection, can significantly extend the lifespan of a wheel bearing. Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature wear and failure.
- Vehicle Load: Vehicles that carry heavy loads or tow trailers place more stress on the wheel bearings, leading to faster wear and tear.
- Manufacturing Quality: The quality of the wheel bearing itself can also impact its lifespan. Higher-quality bearings tend to last longer than lower-quality ones.
It's important to note that the lifespan of a wheel bearing can vary widely depending on these factors, and regular inspection and maintenance are crucial to ensuring the longevity of this critical component.
Symptoms of Wheel Bearing Failure
When a wheel bearing starts to fail, it can exhibit several symptoms, including:
- Noise: A failing wheel bearing may produce a grinding, humming, or whirring noise that becomes more pronounced as the vehicle's speed increases.
- Vibration: A worn-out wheel bearing can cause the wheel to vibrate or wobble, especially at higher speeds.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A failing wheel bearing can cause the tire to wear unevenly, leading to premature tire replacement.
- Difficulty Steering: In severe cases, a failing wheel bearing can make the steering feel loose or unstable.
If any of these symptoms are observed, it's important to have the wheel bearing inspected and replaced if necessary to avoid further damage to the vehicle and ensure safe driving.
Replacing Wheel Bearings
Replacing a wheel bearing is a complex task that should be performed by a qualified mechanic. The process typically involves removing the wheel, hub, and bearing assembly, and then installing a new bearing and reassembling the components.
It's important to note that wheel bearings are usually replaced in pairs, as the wear and tear on both sides of the vehicle is often similar. Replacing a single wheel bearing may not be sufficient, and it's generally recommended to replace both bearings at the same time to ensure even wear and tear on the vehicle's suspension system.
How long can I go on a bad wheel bearing?
In reality, you can run it all the way until the wheel falls off. There is no set time frame or distance from the time you notice a bad bearing until it fails completely. It can fail today, tomorrow, next week or next month. My crystal ball is broken at this time.
What are signs of bad wheel bearings?
Noise: A humming, rumbling or growling noise that increases with acceleration or as the vehicle turns. A loud constant whining or grinding noise when the vehicle is in motion. Clunking noises when driving over uneven road surfaces.
Can you 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 long does it take a mechanic to fix a wheel bearing?
The time taken to replace a wheel bearing is also slightly different depending on whether the bearing is on the front or rear wheel. A front wheel bearing replacement on average takes around 90 minutes, whereas a rear wheel bearing replacement takes on average just under 1 hour.
Do bearings give warning before they fail?
This is reality, and can happen if you fail to notice the signs the wheel bearings are deteriorating and need immediate repairs. 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.
How much does it cost to replace a wheel bearing?
between $250 and $500 per
For a typical car, the wheel bearing replacement price at a professional shop averages between $250 and $500 per wheel. Luxury vehicles and exotic or specialty models could be more than $700 due to higher part and labor costs.
What can be mistaken for a bad wheel bearing?
What can be mistaken for bad wheel bearing? The auto-lock braking system turning on can be mistaken for a wheel bearing, but it could actually be low levels in the fluid reservoir. This is why you need to consider multiple symptoms before you decide what is wrong with your car.
What is one of the first signs of bearing failure?
Vibration. A sure sign that your bearing has failed is vibration. If the raceway surface of the bearing becomes damaged by abrasion, the rolling elements (the balls or rollers) will bounce around on the raceway surface during operation, causing high levels of vibration.
How much does it cost to fix a wheel bearing?
For a typical car, the wheel bearing replacement price at a professional shop averages between $250 and $500 per wheel. Luxury vehicles and exotic or specialty models could be more than $700 due to higher part and labor costs.
How often should a wheel bearing be replaced?
You should expect to replace wheel bearings every 85000-100000 miles. However, this number is only a guess, as it also depends on the quality of the bearings. Unless both bearings on all sides of the wheels are overworked, there is no need to replace them all at once. You should only swap out the ones that need it.
