Here's a general outline of the process. This is NOT a complete guide, and you should consult a repair manual specific to your 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix. Repair manuals (Haynes, Chilton, etc.) provide detailed instructions with diagrams and torque specifications crucial for success.
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Jack up the car securely using jack stands, never work under a car supported only by a jack. Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Gather Tools: You'll need a jack, jack stands, wheel chocks, lug wrench, socket set (metric), torque wrench, ball joint separator, pickle fork (potentially), hammer, punch, press (or a large socket and hammer for pressing bearings), grease, possibly a bearing race installer/remover tool, and a repair manual.
* Parts: Obtain the correct replacement wheel bearings for your specific Grand Prix model (check your VIN). You'll likely need two bearings (one per wheel). Consider replacing the ABS sensor if it's integrated with the bearing hub assembly.
2. Wheel Removal:
* Chock the rear wheels.
* Loosen the lug nuts.
* Raise the car and secure it on jack stands.
* Remove the wheel.
3. Brake Caliper and Rotor Removal:
* Remove the brake caliper. You may need to use a caliper compression tool to retract the piston. Secure the caliper safely out of the way – do not let it hang by the brake line.
* Remove the brake rotor.
4. Hub and Bearing Assembly Removal:
* This is the most challenging part. You'll need to disconnect the ABS sensor (if applicable) and carefully remove the cotter pin and castle nut from the axle.
* Use a ball joint separator to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
* Remove the caliper bracket bolts if necessary (consult your repair manual).
* The hub assembly, containing the bearing, is likely pressed onto the spindle. You may need to use a puller or other specialized tools to remove it. A large socket and hammer may be used as a makeshift puller, but extreme care must be taken to avoid damaging parts.
5. Bearing Removal and Installation:
* Once the hub assembly is removed, you'll need to remove the old bearing. This usually requires a bearing race and seal remover and a press. Improper removal can damage the hub.
* Press the new bearing onto the hub using a press. Improperly seating the bearing can lead to premature failure and potential damage to the hub.
* Pack the new bearing with grease as per manufacturer's instructions.
6. Reassembly:
* Carefully reverse the removal steps to reinstall the hub assembly, brake rotor, brake caliper, and wheel. Pay close attention to torque specifications for all bolts. Ensure the ABS sensor is properly reinstalled and connected.
* Tighten the axle nut to the correct torque specification (crucial for proper bearing operation).
* Reinstall the cotter pin.
7. Final Checks:
* Lower the car and check for any leaks.
* Test drive the car carefully to ensure the repair was successful and there are no unusual noises or vibrations.
Disclaimer: This is a simplified overview. Consult a repair manual specific to your 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams. Improperly performing this repair can lead to serious safety hazards. If you are not comfortable with this level of automotive repair, take your car to a qualified mechanic.
