This guide provides a general overview. Specific steps and tools may vary slightly depending on your exact Envoy model and trim level. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
Tools Required (this is not exhaustive):
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely crucial for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench
* Wheel chocks
* Socket set (metric) with various extensions and a breaker bar
* Ball joint separator or pickle fork (use caution, these can damage components)
* Tie rod separator
* Hammer
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster)
* New wheel bearing (make sure to get the correct one for your vehicle)
* New ABS sensor ring (often replaced with the bearing)
* Torque wrench (essential for proper tightening)
* Wheel bearing press (Highly recommended, pressing the bearing in incorrectly can easily damage it)
* Pry bar
* C-clamp (possibly)
Steps (General Outline):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks on the rear wheels. Jack up the front of the vehicle and securely support it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and then the wheel.
3. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Use a socket to remove the caliper mounting bolts. Carefully support the caliper with a bungee cord or wire to prevent it from hanging by the brake line.
4. Disconnect ABS Sensor (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire from the hub assembly. Take note of how it's connected for reassembly.
5. Remove the Rotor: Remove the rotor. It may be held on by a single central bolt or may slide off after removing the caliper. Some rotors require a special tool to remove them.
6. Disconnect Tie Rod End: Use a tie rod separator to separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
7. Disconnect Ball Joint: Use a ball joint separator or pickle fork to separate the lower ball joint from the steering knuckle. Be extremely careful not to damage the ball joint or knuckle.
8. Remove the Hub Assembly: With the tie rod and ball joint disconnected, the hub assembly (which contains the wheel bearing) should be able to be removed. You may need to use a hammer and pry bar, but apply force carefully to avoid damage.
9. Remove Old Bearing: This is where a wheel bearing press is invaluable. Pressing the old bearing out and the new one in without a press is extremely difficult and risky. If you don't have a press, consider professional help.
10. Install New Bearing: Press the new wheel bearing into the hub assembly, ensuring it's seated correctly. Often, the new ABS sensor ring will need to be installed as well.
11. Reassemble Everything: Reinstall the hub assembly, ball joint, tie rod end, rotor, brake caliper, and wheel in reverse order of disassembly. Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
12. Lower Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
13. Check Work: Test drive the vehicle, paying close attention to any unusual noises or vibrations.
Important Notes:
* Torque Specifications: Using the correct torque for all bolts is crucial for safe and reliable operation. Consult your vehicle's repair manual. Incorrect torque can lead to failure and potential accidents.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable with any of these steps, or if you lack the necessary tools, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. This is a complex repair that can be dangerous if done improperly.
* Parts: Ensure you obtain the correct parts for your specific Envoy model and year. Using incorrect parts can lead to failure and damage.
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always refer to your vehicle's repair manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions. Improper repair can lead to serious injury or damage.
