Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Wheel chocks: Essential for safety.
* Jack and jack stands: Securely support the vehicle.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Various sockets and wrenches: Sizes will depend on your Festiva's year.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the control arm.
* Tie rod end separator: To separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
* Hammer and punches (or a bearing race installer/remover): For removing and installing the bearing races. A proper bearing race tool is highly recommended.
* Press (or improvised press): For pressing the new bearing onto the hub. A press is strongly recommended for proper bearing installation to avoid damage.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To help loosen rusted or seized parts.
* Grease: For the new bearing.
* New wheel bearing: Ensure you get the correct part number for your Festiva.
General Steps (Always refer to your repair manual):
1. Safety First: Chock the rear wheels, jack up the front of the vehicle, and securely support it on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and the wheel.
3. Disconnect Components:
* Brake Caliper: Carefully disconnect and support the brake caliper to avoid putting stress on the brake line.
* Tie Rod End: Separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle using a tie rod end separator. Mark the position before disconnecting to assist with realignment later.
* Ball Joint: Separate the ball joint from the control arm using a ball joint separator.
* ABS Sensor (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the ABS sensor if present.
4. Remove the Hub Assembly: This usually involves removing several bolts securing the hub to the steering knuckle.
5. Remove the Old Bearing: This is the most challenging part. You'll likely need to use a bearing race and seal puller or hammer and punches to carefully remove the old bearing races and the bearing itself. Damage to the hub is possible during this step.
6. Install the New Bearing: Using a press (or a carefully improvised method), press the new bearing onto the hub. Ensure proper alignment and avoid damaging the bearing.
7. Reassemble: Reinstall the hub assembly, carefully reversing the disassembly steps. Make sure all components are properly aligned and torqued to the correct specifications (refer to your repair manual).
8. Re-attach Components: Re-attach the tie rod end, ball joint, brake caliper, and ABS sensor (if applicable).
9. Wheel Alignment: After reassembly, it's highly recommended to have a wheel alignment performed to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your Festiva's year and model is absolutely crucial. It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and part numbers.
* Press: Using a press to install the bearing is highly recommended to avoid damaging the new bearing or the hub.
* Safety: Always prioritize safety. Use jack stands, chocks, and be cautious when working under the vehicle.
This is a simplified overview. Attempting this repair without the proper knowledge and tools can result in damage to your vehicle or injury to yourself. If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your Festiva to a qualified mechanic.
