However, if you proceed, here's a general outline. Specific steps and tools may vary slightly depending on your exact Malibu's trim level and options. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model for precise instructions and torque specifications. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the rear wheels.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Wheel hub nut socket: This is often a large, specialized socket.
* Impact wrench (highly recommended): Makes removing the hub nut much easier. A breaker bar and a lot of leverage can be used as an alternative, but it's much more strenuous.
* Various sockets and wrenches: For removing caliper, brake rotor, and other components.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the control arm.
* Hammer and punches (or a bearing separator): To remove the old bearing.
* Press (highly recommended): To install the new bearing correctly. Improper installation can damage the new bearing. A vice and sockets can sometimes work as a makeshift press, but a proper press is safer and more effective.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specifications.
* Penetrating oil: Helps loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* New front wheel hub assembly (or individual bearings if you can find them and are comfortable replacing them separately): Buying a pre-assembled hub assembly is generally easier and recommended for the average DIYer.
* Grease: For repacking the new bearing. (If using a pre-assembled hub, this may not be necessary).
* Shop rags: For cleaning.
* Safety glasses and gloves: For protection.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels.
2. Raise and Support the Vehicle: Safely raise the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and wheel.
4. Remove the Brake Caliper: Remove the brake caliper and carefully hang it out of the way using a bungee cord or wire. Support the caliper so the brake line isn't strained.
5. Remove the Rotor: Remove the brake rotor.
6. Disconnect the Ball Joint: Carefully separate the ball joint from the control arm using a ball joint separator.
7. Remove the Axle Nut: This is usually a very large nut. Use an impact wrench to remove it. If you don't have an impact wrench, be prepared for a significant amount of effort.
8. Remove the Hub Assembly (or Individual Bearing): The hub assembly may slide off the spindle after removing the nut, or you may need to use a puller depending on your vehicle's design. If replacing individual bearings, this will be a more involved step requiring careful removal and precise reinstallation.
9. Install the New Hub Assembly (or Individual Bearing): If using a pre-assembled hub, install it carefully, ensuring proper alignment. If using individual bearings, a press is crucial for proper installation.
10. Reassembly: Reassemble everything in reverse order, ensuring all components are properly aligned and tightened to the correct torque specifications.
11. Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts and nuts to the manufacturer's specifications found in your repair manual. Incorrect torque can lead to premature failure or damage.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle to the ground.
13. Final Check: Check that the wheel rotates freely and there are no unusual noises or vibrations.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensor: The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) sensor may be attached to the hub assembly. Be careful not to damage it during removal and reinstallation.
* Bearing Races: If replacing individual bearings, the races (the inner and outer rings the bearing rolls in) might need to be replaced as well if they're damaged.
* Difficulty: This is not a beginner's job. It requires mechanical knowledge, patience, and the correct tools.
Again, I strongly advise against attempting this repair if you're not comfortable with car maintenance and repair. The potential for injury or damage to your vehicle is significant. A professional mechanic will have the experience and tools to do this safely and correctly.
