Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Wheel chocks: Essential for safety.
* Jack and axle stands: Securely support the vehicle. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Hammer and punch (or a bearing separator): To remove the old bearing.
* Bearing press (highly recommended): Essential for correctly installing the new bearing without damaging it. Improvising can easily damage the new bearing and hub.
* Torque wrench: For tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Penetrating oil: To help loosen seized components.
* Socket set: Various sizes will be needed.
* Allen keys: Possibly needed depending on your model.
* New rear wheel bearing: Get the correct part number for your Cavalier's year and model.
* New axle nut (possibly): Often, these are single-use and should be replaced.
* Grease: Pack the new bearing with the correct type of grease.
* Clean rags: To keep things clean.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specific details):
1. Safety First: Securely chock the front wheels and raise the rear of the car using the jack. Place the car securely on axle stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the wheel nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Brake Caliper Removal: Remove the brake caliper and hang it out of the way using wire or a suitable hanger. Be careful not to damage the brake line.
4. Drum Removal (If Applicable): If your Cavalier has drum brakes, you'll need to remove the brake drum. This may require tapping it gently with a hammer.
5. Hub Removal: Depending on the design, the hub assembly may be bolted to the axle. Remove these bolts. Sometimes, the hub is pressed onto the axle. This requires a puller, which is beyond the scope of this simplified guide.
6. Bearing Removal: This is the most difficult part. You'll need to carefully remove the old bearing from the hub assembly. A bearing separator is ideal; using a hammer and punch can damage components.
7. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the hub assembly to remove any old grease or debris.
8. Bearing Installation: This step requires a bearing press to avoid damaging the new bearing. A bearing press ensures even pressure is applied during installation. Improper installation will ruin the bearing.
9. Reassembly: Reassemble everything in reverse order, ensuring all bolts and nuts are tightened to the correct torque specification as indicated in your repair manual. Pay close attention to the axle nut; it usually requires a specific tightening procedure.
10. Brake Caliper Reinstallation: Remount the brake caliper, ensuring it's correctly positioned and the brake pads are engaging properly.
11. Wheel Reinstallation: Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specification.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the axle stands.
13. Test Drive: Perform a test drive to ensure the bearing is working correctly and there are no noises or vibrations.
Disclaimer: This is a simplified overview. Working on your car's brakes and suspension involves significant safety risks. If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Incorrectly installing a wheel bearing can lead to serious accidents. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model.
