This is a general overview; specifics might vary slightly depending on your Malibu's trim level and whether it's front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive (the Malibu was almost certainly FWD in 1998). Consult a repair manual specific to your year and model for detailed instructions and torque specifications. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the car. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Impact wrench (highly recommended): Makes removing and installing the axle nut much easier. A breaker bar and a lot of muscle will also work, but it's much tougher.
* Wheel hub puller: To remove the hub assembly from the knuckle.
* Bearing press (essential): To press the old bearing out and the new bearing in. Improvising this step is risky and can damage the new bearing or other parts.
* Sockets and wrenches: A variety of sizes, including metric and possibly SAE.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster, etc.): To help loosen rusted or seized bolts and nuts.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* New wheel bearing: Make sure to get the correct part number for your specific vehicle.
* Gloves and safety glasses: Protect yourself.
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. Lift and Secure: Safely lift the vehicle using a jack and place it on jack stands.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and wheel.
4. Remove the Brake Caliper: Carefully remove the brake caliper and support it to prevent damage to the brake line.
5. Remove the Rotor: Remove the brake rotor (disc).
6. Disconnect the Axle Nut: This is often a large nut that requires significant torque to remove. Use your impact wrench or breaker bar.
7. Remove the Hub Assembly: Use the wheel hub puller to remove the hub assembly from the knuckle. This often requires significant force.
8. Press Out the Old Bearing: Use a bearing press to carefully remove the old wheel bearing from the hub assembly.
9. Press In the New Bearing: Use the bearing press to carefully install the new wheel bearing into the hub assembly. Ensure it's seated correctly.
10. Reassemble: Carefully reverse the steps to reassemble everything, paying close attention to the proper torque specifications for all bolts and nuts. This includes reinstalling the rotor, caliper, wheel, and tightening the axle nut to the correct torque.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
12. Test Drive: After reassembly, perform a test drive to check for any issues like noise or vibration.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensor: The ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) sensor might be integrated into the hub assembly. Handle it carefully during removal and reinstallation.
* Torque Specifications: Incorrect torque can lead to premature failure or damage. Always refer to your repair manual for the proper torque values.
* Pressing the Bearing: Attempting this without a proper bearing press can easily damage the new bearing, making the whole process a waste of time and money.
This is a complex repair. Again, if you're not comfortable with this level of automotive repair, take your car to a qualified mechanic. The cost of a professional repair will likely be less than the cost of replacing damaged parts from a botched DIY job.
