Things you'll need:
1. New wheel bearing and hub assembly
2. Socket set
3. Wrench set
4. Pry bar
5. Mallet
6. Grease
Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where the bearing needs to be replaced, but don't remove them completely.
Step 2: Remove the Wheel & Tire Assembly
- Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel and tire assembly.
Step 3: Remove the Brake Caliper
- Locate the brake caliper on the back of the wheel hub.
- Remove the bolts that hold the caliper in place and carefully remove the caliper without damaging the brake line.
- Hang the caliper aside using a wire or bungee cord to prevent it from straining the brake line.
Step 4: Remove the Brake Rotor
- Remove the bolts that secure the brake rotor to the wheel hub.
- Use a pry bar to gently pry the rotor off the hub, being careful not to damage the rotor.
Step 5: Remove the Axle Nut
- Locate the axle nut in the center of the wheel hub.
- Use a socket wrench to loosen and remove the axle nut.
Step 6: Remove the Old Bearing
- Remove the circlip that holds the bearing in place.
- Use a pry bar to carefully pry the old bearing out of the wheel hub.
Step 7: Prepare the New Bearing
- Apply a thin layer of grease to the new bearing.
Step 8: Install the New Bearing
- Place the new bearing into the wheel hub.
- Secure it with the circlip.
Step 9: Reinstall the Axle Nut
- Reinstall the axle nut and tighten it securely.
Step 10: Reinstall the Brake Rotor
- Place the brake rotor back onto the wheel hub and secure it with the bolts you removed earlier.
Step 11: Reinstall the Brake Caliper
- Reinstall the brake caliper and tighten the bolts that hold it in place.
Step 12: Reinstall the Wheel & Tire Assembly
- Place the wheel and tire assembly back onto the wheel hub.
- Tighten the lug nuts until they are snug.
Step 13: Lower the Vehicle
- Lower the vehicle using the jack.
Step 14: Tighten the Lug Nuts
- Fully tighten the lug nuts using a lug wrench.
At this point, the wheel bearing should be replaced, and the wheel assembly should be securely fastened. Always follow the vehicle's service manual for specific instructions and torque specifications related to your Ford Festiva model and year. If you're not confident in performing this task or don't have the necessary tools, it's best to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic.
