Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Impact wrench (highly recommended): Makes removing the axle nut much easier. A breaker bar and a lot of muscle will work, but an impact wrench is safer and less frustrating.
* Socket set: Various sizes, including the correct size for the axle nut.
* Pry bar: To help separate parts.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the control arm.
* Hammer: May be needed for some parts.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): Soak any rusted or seized bolts overnight.
* New hub assembly: Buy a complete hub assembly, as it's generally easier and more reliable than pressing in individual bearings.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specifications.
* C-clamp: Might be needed to compress the caliper piston.
* Brake caliper compression tool (recommended): Safer than using a C-clamp.
* Wheel alignment tools: After replacement, a wheel alignment is highly recommended.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks.
2. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts, jack up the car, secure it on jack stands, and remove the wheel.
3. Remove the Brake Caliper: Use a C-clamp or caliper compression tool to compress the caliper piston. Then, unbolt the caliper and hang it out of the way using some wire or a bungee cord. Be careful not to damage the brake lines.
4. Disconnect the ABS Sensor (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire from the hub assembly.
5. Remove the Rotor: Depending on your model, the rotor may be held on by bolts or simply slide off after removing the caliper.
6. Disconnect the Ball Joint: Use a ball joint separator to safely separate the ball joint from the control arm.
7. Remove the Axle Nut: This is often very tight. Use an impact wrench if possible.
8. Remove the Hub Assembly: This might require some persuasion with a pry bar. Pay attention to how everything comes apart so you can reassemble it correctly.
9. Install the New Hub Assembly: Reverse the removal process, carefully installing the new hub assembly. Ensure everything is aligned correctly.
10. Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts and nuts to the manufacturer's specifications (found in your repair manual). This is extremely important to prevent premature failure and safety issues.
11. Reconnect Everything: Reattach the brake caliper, rotor, wheel, and tighten the lug nuts.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
13. Wheel Alignment: Get a wheel alignment done to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 2000 Pontiac Grand Am is absolutely essential. Generic instructions won't suffice.
* Pressing Bearings: While you can replace individual bearings, it's generally more practical and reliable to replace the entire hub assembly.
* Safety: Working on your car involves risks. If you are uncomfortable with any step, seek professional help. Incorrectly installed hub bearings can lead to serious accidents.
This is a simplified overview. Refer to a repair manual for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Remember safety is paramount. If you're not confident in your abilities, take your car to a qualified mechanic.
