Wheel Bearing Failing: Don't Ignore the Signs!

A failing wheel bearing is a serious issue that can lead to costly repairs or even accidents. If you suspect your wheel bearing is failing, it's important to take action immediately. Here are some tips on how to identify and fix a failing wheel bearing.

Identifying a Failing Wheel Bearing

Symptom	Possible Cause
Grinding or squealing noise when turning or braking	Wheel bearing failure
Vibration in the steering wheel or seat	Wheel bearing failure
Loose or wobbly wheel	Wheel bearing failure
Increased tire wear on one side of the vehicle	Wheel bearing failure

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic.

Fixing a Failing Wheel Bearing

Benefit	How to
Prevent costly repairs or accidents	Replace the wheel bearing as soon as possible
Improve vehicle performance and handling	Have the wheel bearing replaced by a qualified mechanic

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring the signs of a failing wheel bearing

Attempting to fix the wheel bearing yourself without proper training or equipment

Using aftermarket wheel bearings that are not manufactured to the same specifications as original equipment parts

Stories

Story 1

I was driving home from work one day when I started to hear a grinding noise coming from my front wheel. I pulled over and checked the tire, but I couldn't see anything wrong. I got back in my car and started driving again, but the noise got worse. I pulled over again and called a tow truck.

When the tow truck driver arrived, he took one look at my wheel and said, "Your wheel bearing is failing." He towed my car to a mechanic, who replaced the wheel bearing for me. The total cost of the repair was $300.

Story 2

I was driving on the highway when I felt a vibration in the steering wheel. I pulled over and checked the tires, but I couldn't see anything wrong. I got back in my car and started driving again, but the vibration got worse. I pulled over again and called a mechanic.

The mechanic told me that my wheel bearing was failing. He said that if I didn't replace it soon, it could cause the wheel to come off. I had the wheel bearing replaced immediately. The total cost of the repair was $400.

Sections

Benefits of Replacing a Failing Wheel Bearing

Prevent costly repairs or accidents

Improve vehicle performance and handling

How to Replace a Failing Wheel Bearing

Take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic

Have the mechanic replace the wheel bearing

Follow the mechanic's instructions for driving after the repair

Wheel Bearing Failing: Don't Ignore the Signs!