Tools and Supplies Needed:
- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Socket wrench set
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Pliers
- Pry bar
- Grease
- New rear wheel bearing
- Replacement hub nut
Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle
1. Park your Mercury Milan on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel where the bearing needs to be replaced but don't remove them completely.
Step 2: Raise the Vehicle
1. Place a jack under the vehicle's frame, near the rear wheel that needs service.
2. Jack up the vehicle until the wheel is off the ground.
3. Secure the vehicle with jack stands to ensure it's stable.
Step 3: Remove the Wheel
1. Remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheel.
Step 4: Remove the Brake Caliper
1. Locate the brake caliper on the back of the wheel hub.
2. Remove the bolts holding the caliper in place and set the caliper aside without disconnecting it from the brake line.
Step 5: Remove the Brake Rotor
1. Use a pry bar to gently pry the brake rotor off the wheel hub. Be careful not to damage the rotor.
Step 6: Remove the Dust Cap and Snap Ring
1. Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry off the dust cap that covers the wheel bearing assembly.
2. Once the dust cap is removed, you'll see a snap ring. Use pliers to remove the snap ring.
Step 7: Remove the Hub Nut and Bearing
1. Use a socket wrench to loosen and remove the hub nut.
2. Once the hub nut is removed, you should be able to pull out the old wheel bearing assembly from the hub.
Step 8: Install the New Wheel Bearing
1. Apply a thin layer of grease to the inside of the hub and on the outer surface of the new wheel bearing.
2. Carefully place the new wheel bearing into the hub.
3. Install the snap ring and make sure it's seated correctly.
4. Replace the dust cap.
Step 9: Reinstall the Hub Nut
1. Screw on the hub nut and tighten it until it's snug.
Step 10: Reinstall the Brake Rotor and Caliper
1. Place the brake rotor back onto the wheel hub.
2. Reattach the brake caliper and tighten the bolts securely.
Step 11: Reinstall the Wheel
1. Put the wheel back on the hub and secure it with the lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts until they're snug but don't over-tighten them.
Step 12: Lower the Vehicle
1. Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
Step 13: Test Drive
1. Once everything is securely in place, take your Mercury Milan for a test drive to ensure proper functioning of the wheel bearing.
Note:
Replacing a wheel bearing requires some level of mechanical skill and may vary based on the specific year and model of your Mercury Milan. If you're not comfortable performing this task, it's best to have it done by a professional mechanic to ensure proper installation and safety.
