Here's a general overview of the process. This is not a complete, step-by-step guide, and specific steps may vary depending on your exact Malibu model and equipment. Always consult a repair manual specific to your year and model for detailed instructions and torque specifications. These specifications are crucial to avoid damage.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands (crucial for safety!)
* Lug wrench
* Wheel chocks
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Torque wrench
* Hammer
* Pry bar
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster)
* Axle nut socket (often a large, special socket)
* Bearing puller (possibly two types: one for the hub and one for the bearing itself)
* Bearing press (highly recommended for proper installation of the new bearing)
* New front wheel bearings (get the correct part number for your vehicle)
* Possibly a caliper piston compression tool (if you need to compress the caliper piston to remove the caliper)
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for exact procedures):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks on the wheels that are not being worked on. Raise the vehicle securely using a jack and support it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Caliper: Remove the brake caliper assembly. You may need to compress the caliper piston to create enough space to remove the caliper. Be careful not to damage the brake lines. Secure the caliper out of the way.
4. Remove the Rotor: Remove the brake rotor. This might require some persuasion; penetrating oil can help.
5. Remove the Axle Nut: This is often very tight. Use the correct socket and a breaker bar if necessary. Mark the axle nut's position relative to the hub before removing it to ensure proper reassembly and alignment.
6. Separate the Hub Assembly: This step can be tricky and may require a hub puller. The hub assembly is often pressed onto the spindle.
7. Remove the Old Bearing: This usually requires a bearing puller. The old bearing may be pressed onto a race, which also needs removal.
8. Install the New Bearing: This is critical. Using a bearing press is highly recommended to avoid damaging the new bearing. Improper installation can lead to premature failure.
9. Reassembly: Reassemble everything in reverse order, paying close attention to torque specifications for all bolts and nuts (especially the axle nut). Use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening. Failure to torque correctly can lead to serious damage.
10. Test Drive: After reassembly, carefully test drive the vehicle to check for any unusual noises or vibrations.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensor: Your ABS sensor may be attached to the hub assembly. Be careful not to damage it during removal and reinstallation.
* Torque Specifications: Absolutely crucial to follow the correct torque specifications in your repair manual. Incorrect torque can lead to catastrophic failure.
* Repair Manual: Investing in a repair manual specific to your 2003 Chevy Malibu is highly recommended. It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, and torque specifications.
This is a simplified overview. The actual procedure is more complex and requires specialized tools and knowledge. Again, if you're not comfortable performing this repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installed wheel bearings can lead to serious safety hazards.
