Here's a general overview. Specific steps may vary slightly depending on if it's a front or rear wheel bearing:
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the other wheels.
* Socket wrench set and various sockets: Different sizes will be needed for various bolts and nuts.
* Impact wrench (optional but helpful): Makes removing lug nuts and other fasteners much easier.
* Ball joint separator (pickle fork): Potentially needed to separate the ball joint from the control arm.
* Hammer and punch: May be needed for stubborn components.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): Helps loosen rusted bolts.
* New wheel bearing: Get the correct part number for your specific vehicle.
* Bearing race installer/remover (optional but highly recommended): Makes installing and removing the bearing races much easier and safer. Doing this without one increases the risk of damaging the hub.
* Torque wrench: To tighten components to the manufacturer's specifications. Crucial for safe operation.
* Owner's Manual: May contain specific instructions or torque specifications.
General Steps (Front Wheel Bearing - More Complex):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels.
2. Raise and Support: Jack up the car and securely place it on jack stands.
3. Remove Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Carefully remove the caliper and support it with wire or a bungee cord to prevent stress on the brake line.
5. Remove Rotor (Disc Brake): Remove the rotor. This may require some gentle persuasion (sometimes they're stuck to the hub).
6. Disconnect Ball Joint: This is often the trickiest part. You'll likely need a ball joint separator (pickle fork) to separate the ball joint from the control arm. Work carefully to avoid damaging the boot. Some designs may require removing the strut assembly instead.
7. Disconnect ABS Sensor (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire.
8. Remove Hub Assembly: The hub assembly (which contains the wheel bearing) should now be removable. This may involve removing several bolts.
9. Press Out Old Bearing: This requires a press or specialized bearing removal tool. Trying to pry it out can damage the hub.
10. Press In New Bearing: Again, a press or specialized tool is highly recommended to correctly install the new bearing.
11. Reassembly: Reassemble in the reverse order, paying close attention to torque specifications for all bolts.
Rear Wheel Bearing (Usually Simpler):
The rear wheel bearings are usually simpler to access, but the process may still involve removing the brake drum (drum brakes) or rotor (disc brakes), and possibly the axle flange. However, even the rear bearing removal/installation often necessitates using a press.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensor: Be extremely careful with the ABS sensor. Damage to it can cause ABS system malfunction.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. Incorrect tightening can lead to premature wear or failure.
* Hub Nut: The hub nut is crucial. Ensure it's properly tightened to spec.
* Professional Help: If you're unsure about any step, it's strongly recommended to seek professional help. Wheel bearings are a critical safety component.
This is a general overview. Consult a repair manual specific to your 1995 Ford Mystique for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Improperly performing this repair can lead to serious safety hazards.
