Tools and Parts Needed:
* New wheel bearing and hub assembly: Ensure you get the correct part number for your specific vehicle.
* Wheel chocks: Essential for safety.
* Jack and jack stands: Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for proper tightening of bolts and nuts.
* Hammer and punch (or slide hammer): To remove the old bearing/hub assembly.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): To loosen rusted or stuck bolts.
* Pry bar: May be needed to help separate components.
* Clean rags: To keep things clean.
* Grease: To pack the new bearing (if required – some pre-packed assemblies don't need this).
* Repair manual specific to your 1994 Oldsmobile Ciera: This is invaluable.
Procedure (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 Secure the Vehicle: Safely jack up the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
4. Remove the Brake Caliper: Carefully remove the brake caliper and support it using a bungee cord or wire to prevent stress on the brake line.
5. Remove the Rotor: Remove the rotor. It might be held on by bolts or simply slide off.
6. Disconnect the ABS Sensor (if applicable): Your Ciera might have an ABS sensor on the hub; carefully disconnect it.
7. Remove the Axle Nut: This is often a large nut and may be very tight. Use penetrating oil and a breaker bar if necessary.
8. Remove the Hub Assembly: This is where it gets tricky. The hub assembly is likely pressed onto the spindle. You may need a slide hammer or a large puller designed for this purpose to remove it. A hammer and punch can be used, but be extremely careful not to damage the spindle.
9. Install the New Hub Assembly: Carefully press the new hub assembly onto the spindle. Ensure it's seated properly.
10. Tighten the Axle Nut: Tighten the axle nut to the manufacturer's specified torque (found in your repair manual).
11. Reconnect the ABS Sensor (if applicable): Carefully reconnect the ABS sensor.
12. Reinstall the Rotor: Reinstall the rotor.
13. Reinstall the Brake Caliper: Reinstall the brake caliper and ensure the brake pads are properly seated.
14. Reinstall the Wheel: Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
15. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle.
16. Torque Check: Double-check all bolt and nut torques.
17. Test Drive: Take a short test drive to check for any unusual noises or vibrations.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensor: Be very careful with the ABS sensor; damage to it can be costly.
* Axle Nut Torque: Incorrect torque can lead to wheel bearing failure. Use a torque wrench and follow the manufacturer's specifications exactly.
* Spindle Damage: Avoid damaging the spindle during removal and installation.
* Wheel Bearing Pack: Some pre-assembled hub units come pre-packed with grease, others may not. Consult your repair manual and the bearing packaging.
Again, this is a general overview. You absolutely MUST consult a repair manual specific to your 1994 Oldsmobile Ciera before attempting this repair. If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installed wheel bearings can be very dangerous.
