Tools and materials needed:
- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Socket set
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Pry bar
- Torque wrench
- New front wheel bearing assembly
- Grease
- Rags
Instructions:
1. Prepare your vehicle. Park your 4-Runner on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Use the jack to lift the front of the vehicle and place the jack stands under the frame for support.
2. Remove the lug nuts and wheel. Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts, but do not remove them completely. Then use the jack to raise the vehicle until the tire is off the ground. Finish removing the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the caliper and rotor. Unbolt the caliper from the steering knuckle using the socket set. Hang the caliper out of the way with some zip ties or wire. Remove the brake rotor by unbolting it from the hub.
4. Remove the hub assembly. Remove the hub nut using a socket wrench. Be careful not to lose the washer behind it. Then use a pry bar to pry the hub assembly off the axle stub.
5. Remove the old wheel bearing. Inspect the old wheel bearing for any signs of damage or wear. Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry the old bearing out of the hub.
6. Install the new wheel bearing. Grease the new wheel bearing and press it into the hub using a bearing press or a suitable tool. Make sure the bearing is properly seated and the outer race is flush with the hub.
7. Reinstall the hub assembly. Place the washer and the hub nut back on the axle stub and tighten the nut. Do not overtighten it, as this could damage the bearing.
8. Reinstall the brake rotor and caliper. Mount the brake rotor onto the hub and secure it with the bolts. Reattach the caliper and tighten the bolts.
9. Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle. Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts. Use the jack to lower the vehicle until it is on the ground. Tighten the lug nuts again to the proper torque specification.
10. Test the wheel bearing. Take the 4-Runner for a test drive and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations. If there are no issues, you have successfully changed the front wheel bearing.
