Bearing replacement - how to do it yourself?

The wheel bearing is a major part of the suspension of almost every car. Potentially, this element must withstand a run of up to 1 million kilometers. However, the truth is that, like other parts, this one is prone to damage. Faulty products, poor operating conditions, or careless driving are just a few of the reasons why a bearing needs to be replaced. Postponing this action can lead to serious blocking issues. How to replace the bearing and not use the help of a specialist? Check!

Wheel bearing replacement - how often should it be done?

Before getting an answer to the question of how to replace the bearing, it is necessary to mention how much mileage will be required. Each manufacturer declares a long service life of their products, but in reality everything is quite different. That is why the bearing should be replaced every 100 - 000 km. 

Of course, this element may fail prematurely. This is most often caused by external factors such as driving conditions. For this reason, it is worth knowing how to replace the bearing to prevent further damage to the car.

Replacing a bearing in a car - what are the symptoms of its destruction?

Bearings should be replaced systematically unless there is evidence of obvious damage to the component. Which? First, the growing shuffling sound when driving. To check which wheel it is from, you should go for a test drive, preferably with an attentive passenger. Be sure to test the car under repeated loads. Walk along both winding roads, the normal roadway and the gravel path.

There is another way to check if a bearing needs to be replaced. However, this requires an elevator. Raise the car and turn the steering wheel vigorously. If you hear a certain sound, you will already know that the item is not fully functional.

You already know that this part is excessively worn. How to replace a bearing? Check!

How to replace the bearing yourself?

Bearings must be replaced in pairs relative to the axis. However, this is not the end! When replacing a bearing in a car, it is also necessary to check the technical condition of the brake discs and steering knuckles. 

In most cases, the disassembly of this element is carried out by the so-called destructive method. In turn, the assembly of a new part is carried out by pressing it into the steering knuckle using a ring that abuts against the outer race of the bearing. This must be done very carefully, as any deformation that occurs on the surface is caused by applying a pressing force to the wrong ring. Therefore, it is extremely important to take care of the sealing ring. Its destruction will lead to the risk of moisture entering the entire system, and replacing the bearing will not work. 

It is also necessary to thoroughly clean the seat in the steering knuckle, even before installing a new bearing. Take care of the absence of even the slightest sagging. Otherwise, rapid wear of the bearing and seat will follow. Now check how to replace the bearing!

How to replace a bearing step by step?

How to replace a bearing in a car? The main steps of this action are as follows:

1. Removing a wheel with a worn bearing.
2. Removing the fork, calipers and brake disc.
3. Unscrewing the nut located in the central axle shaft.
4. Getting rid of the damaged bearing, which is contained in the steering knuckle.
5. Installing a new item.
6. Tightening the central axle nut.
7. Reinstall the fork, brake disc and calipers.

Thanks to this instruction, the answer to the question of how to replace the bearing yourself will become familiar to you!

Wheel bearing and wheel speed sensor replacement

Now you know how to replace a bearing step by step. You must remember one more important thing. If your vehicle has a wheel speed sensor, replacing the bearing may damage it. To avoid this, before starting work, it is worth disassembling the device. 

Another problem could be a rusted sensor mount on the steering knuckle. If it is present in your car, you will be forced to replace the equipment with a new one. This results in additional costs depending on the sensor model.

Mechanic bearing replacement - how much does it cost?

You have learned how to replace a bearing. Surely you understand that this is not an easy task. It requires great skill, and its incorrect execution will lead to a very quick need to replace the element again. The solution to this problem can be a visit to the mechanic, where the bearing will be replaced professionally. How much does this service cost? Replacing a bearing at a mechanic costs 6 euros per unit. However, you need to know that in extreme cases the cost of the service can reach up to 50 euros.

Needless to say, bearing replacement is quite expensive. However, this is not a reason to postpone its implementation. A worn bearing can lead to more serious damage that will cost you much more. You know how to replace a bearing without the help of a specialist. However, if you are not ready for this, give him the opportunity to make sure that everything is done correctly.