Car Wheel Bearing: Symptoms & Signs of a Bad Wheel Bearing
Car wheel bearings are an essential part of your vehicle's wheel assembly, allowing smooth rotation and reducing friction. Without proper maintenance, they can wear out over time, leading to significant issues. This blog will guide you through everything about bearings in wheels, from understanding their role to recognizing bad wheel bearing symptoms and learning how to replace a car wheel bearing.
What is a Car Wheel Bearing?
A car wheel bearing is an integral part of your vehicle's wheel hub assembly, which connects the wheel to the axle. The primary function of car wheel bearings is to allow the wheel to rotate smoothly while minimizing friction between the rotating wheel and the stationary axle. Bearings help transfer the load of the vehicle evenly across the wheel, making sure the wheel rolls without causing excess heat or friction
These bearings are designed to be durable and are usually made from high-grade steel to endure extreme conditions like high speeds, pressure, and varying weather elements. In most modern cars, the bearings are sealed inside the hub assembly to prevent exposure to contaminants like dirt, water, or debris that could cause premature wear or failure.
Given their crucial role in wheel performance, any damage to bearings in wheels can compromise the vehicle's stability, steering, and safety. They must be maintained in good condition to avoid potential breakdowns or accidents.
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What are the Common Issues with Car Wheel Bearings?
Although car wheel bearings are designed for longevity and strength, they are not immune to wear and tear. Over time, they can experience various issues that affect their performance. Some of the most common problems include:
- Wheel Bearings Noise
- Vibration in the Steering Wheel or Car Body
- Increased Friction and Heat
- Irregular Tyre Wear
One of the first signs of a worn-out bearing is unusual noise. As the bearing deteriorates, you may hear a grinding, humming, or growling sound coming from the wheel area. The noise typically increases with vehicle speed and becomes more noticeable during turns or when the car is under stress. This wheel bearings noise is a result of the bearing's metal parts rubbing against each other due to insufficient lubrication or damage.
Another common symptom of bad wheel bearings is vibration. A damaged bearing may cause the wheel to wobble or rotate unevenly, which in turn causes vibrations that can be felt in the steering wheel or throughout the car body. This issue can become more pronounced at higher speeds and should be addressed immediately, as it compromises driving safety.
Car wheel bearings are designed to reduce friction, but when they are worn or damaged, they cannot perform this function efficiently. Increased friction leads to the buildup of heat around the wheel assembly, which can cause damage to surrounding parts such as the axle, hub, or even the tyre. The excess heat can also cause the bearing to warp or seize, leading to catastrophic failure.
When a wheel bearing is faulty, it can cause the wheel to become misaligned, leading to uneven tyre wear. Over time, this misalignment can significantly reduce the lifespan of the tyres, which will need to be replaced more frequently.
Why Do Car Wheel Bearings Fail?
While wheel bearings are designed to last for thousands of miles, several factors can cause them to fail prematurely. Some of the key reasons why wheel bearings fail include:
Bearings rely on proper lubrication to reduce friction and prevent heat buildup. Over time, the lubrication within the sealed bearing can breakdown, dry out, or become contaminated. Without enough lubrication, the metal components of the bearing will grind against each other, leading to wear and eventual failure.
Sealed bearings are designed to keep out dirt, water, and other contaminants. However, seals can deteriorate or break, allowing dirt, moisture, or salt to enter the bearing. These contaminants can cause corrosion and degrade the lubrication inside, significantly shortening the lifespan of the bearing.
Installing a wheel bearing incorrectly can lead to a range of issues. For example, using too much force to press the bearing into place or failing to align it properly can cause internal damage. Additionally, using the wrong type of press in wheel bearings or substandard bearings can result in premature failure.
Wheel bearings are built to handle the weight of the vehicle, but overloading the vehicle beyond its weight capacity puts additional stress on the bearings. This can lead to excessive wear and tear. Additionally, hitting potholes, curbs, or other road hazards can cause damage to the bearings, wheel hubs, and suspension, increasing the likelihood of failure.
How to Check Wheel Bearings?
Regular inspection of your car wheel bearings is essential to avoid unexpected failures and costly repairs. Early detection of wear or damage can prevent more extensive issues. To check your wheel bearings manually, follow these steps:
- Lift the Car: Using a car jack, lift the vehicle so that the wheel you want to inspect is off the ground. Ensure the car is stable and securely supported before proceeding..
- Spin the Wheel: Grab the wheel at both the 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock positions and try to rotate it. A healthy wheel bearing will allow smooth, free rotation. If you feel any roughness, grinding, or friction, this could be a sign of a bad bearing.
- Check for Play: Try rocking the wheel back and forth by gripping it at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions. If there’s noticeable play or looseness, this could indicate excessive wear in the bearing.
- Listen for Noise: Spin the wheel while listening carefully. Any wheel bearings noise, such as a grinding, humming, or growling sound, suggests the bearings are worn and need replacement.
- Use a Diagnostic Tool: For more precise testing, mechanics often use a stethoscope or an electronic diagnostic tool. This helps detect subtle vibrations and noises that may not be easily noticeable during a manual check. This method allows for an accurate assessment while the wheel is spinning.
What are the 3 Types of Wheel Bearings?
There are three main types of wheel bearings, each suited to different applications based on their load-handling capacity and specific designs. Understanding the difference between them can help you choose the right one for your vehicle.
1. Ball Bearings:
Ball bearings are the most common type and are often found in a wide variety of vehicles due to their versatility. They can handle both radial loads (perpendicular to the axis of rotation) and axial loads (parallel to the axis of rotation). Their ability to handle loads in multiple directions makes them ideal for passenger cars that experience various driving conditions.
2. Roller Bearings:
Roller bearings are designed to handle heavy radial loads. They have cylindrical rollers instead of balls, allowing them to distribute the load more evenly over a larger area. This type of bearing is ideal for vehicles that regularly carry heavy loads or are driven in conditions that place high stress on the wheels, such as off-road trucks.
3. Tapered Roller Bearings:
Tapered roller bearings are typically used in press-in wheel bearing systems. They are designed to handle both radial and axial loads simultaneously, making them suitable for vehicles that require more robust bearings, such as trucks and SUVs. The tapered shape allows them to withstand high forces from all directions, which is why they are often found in the front wheels of heavier vehicles.
What is the Average Life of a Wheel Bearing?
The average lifespan of a car wheel bearing typically ranges between 85,000 to 100,000 miles, though this can vary based on several factors. How long a wheel bearing lasts depends on the driving conditions and maintenance practices of the vehicle owner. Bearings in cars driven on well-paved roads under normal conditions may last longer, while those exposed to harsher environments may have a reduced lifespan.
Factors that can affect the longevity of wheel bearings include:
- Driving Conditions: Driving on rough, unpaved roads or frequent exposure to potholes and bumps can put additional stress on the bearings, leading to early wear.
- Weather and Environmental Exposure: Driving through water, mud, or road salt can cause the bearing seals to wear out, allowing contaminants to enter the bearing assembly. This can lead to corrosion and reduced bearing life.
- Maintenance: Proper lubrication and regular checks for bad wheel bearing symptoms can extend the life of your bearings. Sealed bearings don't typically require maintenance, but it's crucial to ensure they remain intact to prevent contaminants from causing damage.
What are the Symptoms of Bad Wheel Bearings?
Recognizing bad wheel bearing symptoms early can help prevent more significant problems, such as wheel failure or damage to other parts of your car. Common signs of a failing wheel bearing include:
1. Loud Humming or Growling Noise:
One of the most noticeable signs of a bad bearing is noise. If you hear a constant humming, growling, or grinding sound coming from the wheel, it is an indicator that the bearing is worn out. The noise may intensify as you drive faster or make turns.
2. Uneven Tyre Wear:
A failing wheel bearing can cause the wheel to misalign, leading to uneven tyre wear. If you notice one tyre wearing out much faster than the others, it could be a sign that the bearing needs to be checked.
3. Vibration or Wobbling in the Wheel:
Worn bearings can cause the wheel to wobble or vibrate, which can be felt in the steering wheel or through the car's body. This is a significant safety concern, as it may lead to a loss of vehicle control.
4. Difficulty Steering:
A faulty bearing can interfere with the smooth operation of the wheels, making it harder to steer. If you find it increasingly difficult to control your vehicle, especially while turning, it's a sign that the wheel bearing could be failing.
Does Wheel Bearing Cause Noise?
Yes, wheel bearings noise is one of the most common indicators of a failing bearing. When a bearing begins to wear out, the smooth rotation of the wheel is compromised, leading to noise. Initially, the noise may be a faint humming sound, but as the damage progresses, it can evolve into a louder grinding or growling sound.
The noise is typically more noticeable during turns, as the weight shifts and puts more pressure on the failing bearing. If left unchecked, the noise will worsen and could lead to a complete failure of the bearing, resulting in significant safety risks and costly repairs.
What Happens When a Car Wheel Bearing Fails?
When a car wheel bearing fails, it can lead to unsafe driving conditions. A broken bearing can cause the wheel to seize, detach, or result in a loss of control, especially at high speeds. It's crucial to address any bad wheel bearing symptoms promptly to avoid severe damage or accidents.
How Much Does a New Car Wheel Bearing Cost?
The wheel bearings replacement cost varies depending on the vehicle model and labour fees. In the UK, wheel bearing price UK ranges from £60 to £150 for the part, with labour costs adding another £100 to £200. The total wheel bearing replacement can cost between £160 and £350. Always check with your mechanic for an accurate estimate of how much wheel bearings change.
How to Replace a Car Wheel Bearing?
How to replace a front wheel bearing requires some mechanical skill and the right tools. Here's a simplified process:
- Lift the car and remove the wheel.
- Remove the brake calliper and rotor.
- Use a bearing puller to remove the old bearing.
- Press in the new press in wheel bearing using a press tool.
- Reassemble everything and ensure the wheel spins smoothly.
For DIYers, knowing which tool is essential for fitting a road wheel is key: a bearing puller and press tool are must-haves.
Can Bad Bearings Damage Tyres?
Yes, bad wheel bearings can damage tyres. When a wheel bearing starts to fail, it can cause uneven wear on the tyre. This happens because the worn bearing may cause the wheel to wobble or become misaligned, leading to irregular tyre contact with the road. Over time, this uneven pressure can result in premature tyre wear, which can compromise your vehicle's handling, safety, and overall tyre lifespan.
In addition to tyre damage, bad bearings can affect the suspension and alignment, further contributing to g to tyre issues. It's important to address bad wheel bearing symptoms early to avoid these costly problems.
Are Wheel Bearings Covered Under Warranty?
In general, wheel bearings are considered wear-and-tear components, which means they are not usually covered under standard manufacturer warranties. Over time, these parts naturally degrade due to the stresses of driving, making them a common maintenance item. However, extended warranties or specialized vehicle protection plans may offer coverage for wheel bearing replacement, depending on the plan's terms and conditions.
Warranty Direct Car Warranties Cover Wheel Bearings
At Warranty Direct, we understand the importance of keeping your vehicle in top condition, which is why we offer coverage for car wheel bearings under both our gold and silver car warranty plans. Whether you're experiencing wheel bearings noise or other bad wheel bearing symptoms, our comprehensive warranty options ensure you're protected from unexpected repair costs.
Our Gold warranty provides extensive coverage, including labour and parts, while the silver warranty still offers robust protection for essential components, including wheel bearings.
With Warranty Direct, you can drive with confidence, knowing that critical parts like wheel bearings are covered in case of failure.
It's important to review your specific plan details to understand what is included in your coverage, as different plans may offer varying levels of protection.
FAQ
1. How long does it take to replace a wheel bearing?
On average, it takes about 1.5 to 3 hours to replace a wheel bearing, depending on the vehicle and the skill level of the mechanic.
2. How to tell which wheel bearing is bad while driving?
You can determine the faulty bearing by listening for the noise. The sound will typically increase when turning in the direction opposite to the damaged bearing.
3. Which tool is essential for fitting a road wheel?
A lug wrench or socket wrench is essential for fitting a road wheel, as it is used to tighten or loosen the lug nuts.
Conclusion
Understanding the importance of car wheel bearings and how to maintain them is crucial for your vehicle's safety. Whether it's recognizing wheel bearings noise or learning how to replace a front wheel bearing, regular maintenance will ensure smooth driving. Keep an ear out for bad wheel bearing symptoms and address any issues before they lead to more expensive repairs.
For those seeking extra protection, consider a car warranty that covers wheel bearings. Warranty Direct’s Gold and Silver warranties provide comprehensive coverage for wheel bearings, helping you manage repair costs and maintain peace of mind. Always review your warranty details to understand the full extent of coverage and keep your vehicle running smoothly.
