Here's a general outline of what's involved:
1. Preparation: You'll need a jack, jack stands (crucial for safety!), wheel chocks, a socket set, wrenches (including a torque wrench), a ball joint separator, a press (or access to one), and possibly a hub nut socket (often a large size requiring a breaker bar). You'll also need the new bearing, which should be purchased from a reputable parts supplier specifying your vehicle's year, make, and model. Some newer models use an integrated hub assembly, while older ones are replaceable bearings. Knowing which your car has is crucial for getting the right parts.
2. Removal: This involves jacking up the car, securing it on jack stands, removing the wheel, brake caliper, rotor, cotter pin, castle nut, and then separating the ball joint and the axle from the hub. The hub assembly (or bearing) can then be removed.
3. Installation: This is the reverse process but requires care in pressing the new bearing (or assembly) into place. Incorrect installation can damage the bearing and lead to premature failure. A hydraulic press is ideal, but some creative methods using sockets and hammers can be used. However, using a press is strongly recommended to prevent damage.
4. Reassembly: Once the new bearing is installed, reassemble everything in the reverse order of removal, ensuring everything is torqued to the manufacturer's specifications (found in a repair manual). This is vital to avoid premature wear or damage.
5. Testing: After reassembly, carefully lower the vehicle and test drive it at low speeds, listening for any unusual noises.
Shop Costs:
The cost to have a front wheel bearing replaced at a professional shop will vary depending on location, labor rates, and whether the entire hub assembly needs replacing. Expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 or more. This includes parts and labor. The higher end of that range is more likely if the hub assembly itself needs replacement, as that part alone can be fairly costly.
Recommendation:
Unless you have experience with car repairs, particularly suspension and braking systems, I strongly recommend taking your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Incorrect installation can result in serious safety issues and potentially expensive repairs down the road. The potential cost savings of DIY might be offset by the risk of doing it incorrectly. The cost of a new bearing is relatively small compared to the potential consequences of a botched repair.
