Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only. Improper repair can lead to serious injury or damage. If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
Tools You Will Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the other wheels.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Sockets and wrenches: A variety of sizes will likely be needed, including those for the axle nut, caliper bolts, and cotter pin.
* Hammer and punch: For removing and installing parts.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the control arm. A pickle fork can be used, but it risks damage.
* Press (highly recommended): A hydraulic press makes removing and installing the bearing much easier and safer. Improper installation without a press can damage the bearing and hub assembly.
* New wheel bearing assembly: Make sure you get the correct part number for your vehicle.
* Torque wrench: Critical for proper tightening of components.
* Penetrating oil: To help loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* Clean rags: To keep things clean.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself.
General Steps:
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.
2. Raise and Secure the Vehicle: Safely lift the vehicle using the jack and secure it on jack stands.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Remove the Brake Caliper: Remove the caliper bolts and carefully hang the caliper out of the way using a bungee cord or wire. Do not let the brake line hang freely.
5. Remove the Rotor: Remove the rotor (brake disc). It might be held on by a single bolt or simply slide off.
6. Disconnect the Ball Joint: This is usually the most challenging part. Use a ball joint separator to carefully separate the ball joint from the control arm.
7. Disconnect the ABS Sensor (if applicable): If your vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire from the hub.
8. Remove the Axle Nut: Use the correct socket to remove the axle nut. It will likely be very tight.
9. Remove the Hub and Bearing Assembly: With the axle nut removed, the hub and bearing assembly should slide off the spindle. A slide hammer may help.
10. Press Out the Old Bearing: Use a suitable press to carefully remove the old bearing from the hub assembly.
11. Press In the New Bearing: Use the press to carefully install the new bearing into the hub assembly. Ensure it's seated properly.
12. Reassembly: Reverse the removal steps to reassemble the components. Pay close attention to proper torque specifications for all bolts and nuts. This is crucial for safety and longevity.
13. Torque Specifications: Refer to your repair manual for the exact torque specifications for all fasteners. Using the wrong torque can damage components.
14. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
15. Test Drive: After reassembly, test drive the vehicle to ensure everything is working correctly. Listen for any unusual noises.
Important Considerations:
* ABS Sensor: Be careful not to damage the ABS sensor wire or the sensor itself during removal and reinstallation.
* Wheel Hub: Sometimes, the entire wheel hub assembly needs to be replaced, rather than just the bearing. Inspect the hub for damage before pressing in a new bearing.
* Press: Using a press is highly recommended for this repair. Improper installation of the bearing without a press is a common cause of premature failure.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is invaluable. It will provide detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
This is a simplified overview. Always consult a repair manual for your specific vehicle before attempting this repair. If you're not comfortable with any step, seek professional assistance. Improperly installing a wheel bearing can lead to serious consequences.
