Here's a general outline of the process. Specific steps and tools may vary slightly depending on your exact Avenger model (2.0L, 2.5L, etc.). Always consult a repair manual specific to your year and engine for detailed instructions and torque specifications. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the vehicle.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
* Tie rod end separator: To separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
* Hammer and punches: Possibly needed to help separate components.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To loosen rusted or seized parts.
* Wheel bearing press: Highly recommended for proper bearing installation. Improper installation without a press can damage the bearing and hub assembly.
* New front wheel bearing: Get the correct part number for your vehicle.
* Grease: For the new bearing.
* Clean rags and shop towels: To keep things clean.
General Steps (This is NOT a complete guide, use a repair manual):
1. Safety First: Engage the parking brake, chock the rear wheels, and safely lift the vehicle using the jack and jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Disconnect Brake Caliper: Remove the caliper bolts and carefully hang the caliper out of the way using a wire or bungee cord. Do not let the brake line hang freely.
4. Disconnect the ABS Sensor (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire from the hub.
5. Disconnect the Ball Joint and Tie Rod End: Use the ball joint separator and tie rod end separator to separate these components from the steering knuckle. This step often requires significant force and the right tools.
6. Remove the Axle Nut: This nut can be very tight. Use a breaker bar if necessary.
7. Remove the Steering Knuckle: Once the ball joint, tie rod end, and axle nut are removed, the steering knuckle should come off.
8. Remove the Old Wheel Bearing: This is often the most difficult part. You may need to use a bearing puller or other specialized tools to remove the old bearing from the hub assembly. Be extremely careful not to damage the hub assembly.
9. Install the New Wheel Bearing: Use a wheel bearing press to install the new bearing into the hub assembly. This is crucial for proper installation and bearing life. Improper installation will ruin the bearing.
10. Reassembly: Reassemble everything in the reverse order of disassembly. Pay close attention to the torque specifications for all bolts, especially the axle nut.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle to the ground.
12. Test Drive: After reassembly, test drive the vehicle at various speeds to ensure the new bearing is working correctly and there are no vibrations or noises.
Again, this is a simplified overview. A detailed repair manual is absolutely necessary to complete this job safely and correctly. Failing to follow proper procedures can lead to serious damage to your vehicle or injury to yourself. If you are not comfortable with this level of car repair, please take your Avenger to a qualified mechanic.
