However, if you're determined to do it yourself, here's a general outline. Remember this is a general guide, and specific steps may vary slightly depending on your exact SRX model and year. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle for precise instructions and torque specifications.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely crucial for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Torque wrench: Essential for proper tightening of bolts and nuts. Incorrect torque can damage components.
* Sockets and wrenches: A variety of sizes will be needed.
* Hammer and punch: May be needed to remove components.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the control arm from the steering knuckle (may be a press-type tool).
* Bearing press/puller: Specialized tools for pressing out the old bearing and pressing in the new one. This is often the most difficult part. Improper use can damage the hub.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster, etc.): To help loosen seized bolts and components.
* New rear wheel bearing: Make sure you get the correct part number for your specific vehicle.
* Shop manual specific to your 2004 Cadillac SRX: This will provide detailed instructions and torque specifications.
General Steps (Highly Simplified):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks.
2. Raise and Secure: Safely jack up the vehicle and securely support it on jack stands.
3. Remove Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Remove the caliper bolts and carefully hang the caliper out of the way using a wire or bungee cord. Be careful not to damage the brake line.
5. Disconnect Rotor: Remove the rotor (brake disc). It may be held on by a single bolt or may simply slide off after the caliper is removed.
6. Disconnect Control Arm: Disconnect the control arm from the steering knuckle. This often requires a ball joint separator.
7. Remove Axle Nut: Remove the large axle nut securing the wheel hub to the axle.
8. Remove Hub Assembly: The hub assembly (which contains the bearing) should now be able to be separated from the axle. This might require some persuasion.
9. Press Out Old Bearing: Use a bearing press/puller to carefully remove the old wheel bearing from the hub assembly.
10. Press In New Bearing: Use the bearing press/puller to carefully press the new bearing into the hub assembly.
11. Reassembly: Reassemble everything in the reverse order, making sure to lubricate any necessary parts and tighten everything to the correct torque specifications as listed in your shop manual.
12. Test: After reassembly, test the wheel for smooth rotation and check for any noises. Road test the vehicle to ensure the repair was successful.
Important Considerations:
* Hub Assembly: In some cases, the entire hub assembly might need to be replaced instead of just the bearing. Inspect the hub carefully for damage.
* Torque Specifications: Using the correct torque is absolutely critical to prevent damage. This information is in your shop manual.
* ABS Sensor: The ABS sensor might be located on the hub assembly. Be careful not to damage it during the process.
* Professional Help: If you encounter any difficulty or are unsure about any step, consult a professional mechanic. Improperly installed bearings can lead to serious safety issues.
This is a simplified overview. A detailed shop manual specific to your 2004 Cadillac SRX is essential for a successful repair. Improperly performing this repair can result in damage to your vehicle or personal injury. Proceed with caution and consider professional assistance if you lack the necessary experience.
