Tools You'll 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.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Sockets and wrenches: Various sizes, depending on your vehicle's specific bolts. You'll likely need metric sockets.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the control arm. A pickle fork is less preferred as it can damage components.
* Hammer: Possibly needed for stubborn components.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): Helps loosen rusted or seized bolts.
* C-clamp or similar tool: May be needed to compress the caliper piston.
* New front wheel hub assembly: Make sure you get the correct part for your vehicle.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself.
Steps (General Overview):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
2. Raise and Secure the Vehicle: Safely lift the Alero using your jack and securely place it on jack stands.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
4. Remove the Brake Caliper: Use a C-clamp or similar tool to compress the brake caliper piston. This creates space to remove the caliper. Support the caliper with a wire or bungee cord to prevent it from hanging by the brake line.
5. Disconnect the ABS Sensor (if equipped): If your Alero has an ABS system, carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire from the hub assembly.
6. Disconnect the Ball Joint: Use a ball joint separator to separate the ball joint from the control arm. This is usually the most challenging part. Apply penetrating oil beforehand.
7. Remove the Axle Nut: Remove the large axle nut securing the hub assembly to the spindle. This nut is often very tight.
8. Remove the Hub Assembly: Once the axle nut and ball joint are disconnected, the hub assembly should be able to be removed from the spindle. It may require some gentle tapping with a hammer.
9. Install the New Hub Assembly: Install the new hub assembly in reverse order of removal.
10. Reconnect the Ball Joint: Carefully reconnect the ball joint to the control arm.
11. Tighten the Axle Nut: Tighten the axle nut to the manufacturer's specified torque.
12. Reconnect the Brake Caliper: Reinstall the brake caliper and ensure it's properly secured.
13. Reconnect the ABS Sensor (if applicable): Reconnect the ABS sensor wire.
14. Reinstall the Wheel: Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
15. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
16. Torque Check: After driving a short distance, double-check that all lug nuts and other bolts are properly torqued.
Important Notes:
* Consult a Repair Manual: This is a general guide. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 2004 Oldsmobile Alero for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams. Incorrect torque can lead to serious safety issues.
* Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable performing this repair, take your Alero to a qualified mechanic. Incorrect installation can lead to serious damage or injury.
* Parts: Ensure you're using the correct parts for your vehicle.
This process can be more complex than described, depending on the condition of your vehicle and the specific tools available. Again, a repair manual is absolutely essential. Improperly completing this repair could lead to dangerous driving conditions.
