Tools and Materials Needed:
- Jack
- Jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Socket wrench
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Hammer
- Replacement wheel bearing kit
- Grease
Steps:
1. Preparation:
- Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you need to replace the bearing, but don't remove them completely.
2. Raise the Vehicle:
- Place the jack under the vehicle frame near the wheel you're working on, making sure it's on a stable surface.
- Raise the vehicle until the tire is about 6 inches off the ground.
- Place jack stands securely under the vehicle frame at the designated jacking points to support its weight.
3. Remove the Wheel:
- Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
4. Remove the Brake Caliper:
- Locate the brake caliper (the component that holds the brake pads) near the wheel hub.
- Remove the bolts that secure the caliper to the wheel hub.
- Hang the caliper safely aside with a piece of wire to prevent it from hanging by the brake hose.
5. Remove the Rotor:
- The brake rotor is the flat disc attached to the wheel hub.
- Remove the bolts that secure the rotor to the wheel hub.
- Pull the rotor straight off the hub.
6. Remove the Dust Cap:
- Behind the rotor, you'll see a dust cap (usually plastic or metal) covering the wheel hub assembly.
- Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry off the dust cap carefully.
7. Remove the Wheel Bearing Nut:
- Inside the wheel hub assembly, you'll see a nut securing the wheel bearing.
- Use a socket wrench to loosen and remove the nut.
8. Remove the Old Bearing:
- Gently tap on the edges of the old bearing assembly with a hammer to loosen it.
- Once it's loose, pry it out using a flat-head screwdriver or a bearing puller tool.
9. Installing the New Bearing:
- Apply a small amount of grease to the surface where the new bearing will sit.
- Place the new wheel bearing into the hub assembly. Make sure it seats correctly and is flush with the hub.
10. Install the Wheel Bearing Nut:
- Reinstall the wheel bearing nut and tighten it securely.
11. Replace the Dust Cap:
- Put the dust cap back in place to cover the wheel hub assembly.
12. Reinstall the Rotor:
- Place the rotor back onto the wheel hub and secure it with the bolts.
13. Reinstall the Brake Caliper:
- Reattach the brake caliper to the wheel hub using the bolts you removed earlier.
14. Reinstall the Wheel:
- Put the wheel back on and secure it with the lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even tightening.
15. Lower the Vehicle:
- Use the jack to lower the vehicle until the tire is on the ground.
16. Tighten the Lug Nuts:
- Finish tightening the lug nuts securely with a lug wrench.
Note: Replacing wheel bearings requires a certain level of mechanical knowledge and precision. If you're not confident in your abilities or lack the necessary tools, it's best to have the work done by a qualified mechanic or automotive repair shop.
