1. Gather Tools and Materials:
- Replacement wheel bearing and hub assembly (according to your vehicle's specifications).
- Socket wrench set.
- Torque wrench.
- Lug wrench.
- pry bar/flat head screwdriver.
- Jack and jack stands.
2. Loosen Lug Nuts:
- With the vehicle in park and the parking brake engaged, use the lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the target wheel, but don't remove them entirely at this point.
3. Raise and Support the Vehicle:
- Place jack stands under the car in sturdy locations specified in your vehicle's manual.
- Jack up the vehicle until the target wheel is off the ground.
4. Remove the Wheel:
- Completely loosen and remove the lug nuts, then pull off the wheel.
5. Remove Brake Caliper:
- Remove the two bolts securing the brake caliper bracket to the steering knuckle.
- Lift off the caliper and suspend it with wire or string to prevent strain on the brake line.
Do not allow the caliper to hang from the brake line.
6. Remove Brake Rotor:
- Remove the two bolts holding the brake rotor to the wheel bearing hub assembly.
- Pull off the rotor.
7. Remove Axle Nut:
- Use a breaker bar or impact wrench to loosen the axle nut.
8. Separate Steering Knuckle:
- Use a pry bar to pry the steering knuckle away from the bearing assembly.
- Be cautious, as the steering knuckle can be heavy.
9. Remove the Old Wheel Bearing Assembly:
- Slide out the old wheel bearing and hub assembly from the steering knuckle.
10. Prepare Replacement Assembly:
- Clean the mating surface where the new bearing will be installed.
- If the replacement wheel bearing and hub assembly come separate, you may need to press the new bearing into the hub. Follow the instructions provided with your replacement part.
11. Install the New Assembly:
- Insert the new wheel bearing assembly into the steering knuckle.
- Screw on the axle nut loosely to hold it in place.
12. Reattach the Steering Knuckle:
- Align the steering knuckle, making sure the CV Axle goes into the Spline of the transmission securely.
- Secure it with the bolts removed earlier.
13. Reattach the Brake Rotor and Caliper:
- Put the rotor back on, securing it with the bolts removed earlier.
- Then, reposition and secure the brake caliper.
14. Lower the Vehicle:
- Carefully lower your car until the target wheel is back on the ground.
15. Tighten the Lug Nuts:
- Hand tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern until snug.
- Then, use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
16. Lower the Jack Stands:
- Lower the jack stands and fully lower your vehicle.
17. Test Drive:
- Take the car for a short, cautious test drive, monitoring for any unusual sounds, vibrations, or wheel play.
Remember, replacing a wheel bearing involves working with critical safety components. If you're not confident in your mechanical abilities or lack the proper tools, it's best to seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic. Refer to your vehicle's repair manual for further instructions and specific safety guidelines.
