Have you been noticing an unusual humming or grinding noise while driving?
It might be your car’s way of saying your wheel bearings are in trouble.
Faulty wheel bearings can make it challenging to control your vehicle and, in extreme cases, even cause a wheel to come loose while driving. That’s why it’s crucial to fix the issue without delay.
But how much does it cost to fix?
Find out all you need to know about wheel bearing replacement cost, including factors influencing its price. We’ll also discuss the key warning signs to watch for and share tips to help improve their lifespan.
Let’s get started!
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing a Bad Wheel Bearing?
- 9 Critical Signs You Need a Wheel Bearing Replacement
- How Long Do Wheel Bearings Last?
- Can You Replace a Wheel Bearing Yourself?
- 8 Essential Tips to Protect Your Wheel Bearings From Damage
How Much Does a Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost?
Here are the cost and pricing factors to consider for a wheel bearing replacement:
A. Range
The average cost of replacing a wheel bearing can typically range from $100 to $760. This includes:
- Cost of parts: $50 to $250
- Cost of labor: $50 to $170 per hour (replacing a wheel bearing can take 1 to 3 hours.)
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Several other factors can influence your final bill, including:
- Car model and type: Luxury vehicles with complex suspension systems or hard-to-reach bearings require more labor and pricier parts, driving up costs. Similarly, trucks and SUVs need stronger, more durable wheel bearings, making their replacement costlier than in compact cars.
- Bearing type: The type of bearing in your vehicle significantly impacts the replacement costs. Hub bearings come as complete units, with pre-assembled parts such as bearings, hub, rotor, seal, and drive shaft. Therefore, they cost around $100 to $200 more than traditional bearings which require separate installation of each component.
- Front or rear wheel bearing: Replacing rear bearings costs more than front bearings, as rear suspension systems are more complex and demand additional labor hours.
- Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) vs. aftermarket alternatives: OEM bearings generally cost more than aftermarket options but offer better warranties and superior fitting.
- Related repairs: A failing wheel bearing can create friction and damage other parts, such as the brake rotor, constant velocity (CV) joints, or suspension, necessitating replacement. A mechanic will also check your vehicle’s alignment after replacing the wheel bearing, which usually costs between $50 and $150, depending on the vehicle type.
Is It Worth Replacing a Bad Wheel Bearing?
Yes, absolutely.
Wheel bearings are essential components that allow the wheels to rotate smoothly, support the vehicle’s weight, and maintain proper wheel alignment.
Ignoring damaged wheel bearings can be risky because if they fail, your wheel may start wobbling, leading to a loss of vehicle control, especially at high speeds.
A bad wheel bearing can also cause brake issues, making it harder to stop or causing the car to pull to one side unexpectedly. In severe cases, the wheel can completely detach if the bearing overheats and fails.
You should replace a faulty wheel bearing immediately to ensure a trouble-free drive.
9 Critical Signs You Need a Wheel Bearing Replacement
Here are the major warning symptoms of a failing wheel bearing:
- An illuminated ABS warning light
- A humming noise from the wheels
- Squealing or grinding noises that increase with speed
- Clicking sounds during movement, especially while accelerating
- Wheel wobble
- The vehicle pulls to one side while braking
- Vibrations in the steering wheel that intensify at higher speeds
- Reduced steering precision or delayed response
- Uneven tire wear, particularly on one-wheel
How Long Do Wheel Bearings Last?
Wheel bearings typically last between 85,000 and 100,000 miles or more with proper maintenance and under regular driving conditions.
However, their lifespan can reduce significantly when exposed to harsh conditions like rough terrain, heavy towing, or extreme weather.
Other factors that contribute to premature wheel bearing failure include:
- Incorrect installation or improper adjustments
- Use of low-quality or incompatible parts
- Damage from accidents or impacts
- Exposure to water, dirt, salt, or other contaminants
- Inadequate lubrication or using incorrect grease for serviceable bearings
Can You Replace a Wheel Bearing Yourself?
If you lack car repair experience, it’s best not to replace a damaged wheel bearing on your own. Seek the help of a skilled technician, as the process demands accuracy and expertise.
Here’s the typical process a mechanic follows:
- Lift the vehicle and remove the wheel and tire assembly.
- Detach the brake rotor, caliper, and other parts to access the wheel hub assembly.
- Remove the broken wheel bearing and inspect surrounding parts for damage.
- Carefully fit and secure the new bearing in place.
- Reassemble the brakes and wheel. Repeat the process on the other side if needed.
- Test drive the vehicle to ensure the new bearing functions correctly, and there are no unusual noises or vibrations.
8 Essential Tips to Protect Your Wheel Bearings From Damage
Follow these simple steps to extend the life of your vehicle’s wheel bearing:
- Steer clear of curbs, potholes, and other road hazards.
- Stay within your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and towing limits to avoid excessive bearing stress.
- Maintain proper tire pressure and ensure correct wheel alignment.
- Check for signs of wear and looseness during routine maintenance and address the issues immediately.
- Get any grinding noises checked and addressed ASAP to prevent further damage.
- Have your serviceable bearings inspected and repacked with fresh grease every 30,000 miles or as per your manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Install bearing protectors or seals if you frequently drive in wet or dusty conditions to keep contaminants out.
- Avoid using cheap, low-quality parts, as they wear out quickly.
Say Goodbye to Wheel Bearing Problems with AutoNation Mobile Service
A worn wheel bearing can compromise your car’s stability and make driving a serious safety hazard.
But don’t worry — repairs are within easy reach!
With AutoNation Mobile Service, you don’t even have to leave your home. Our expert mobile mechanics are available seven days a week and will come straight to your driveway to replace your wheel bearings.
And the best part?
All our repairs are backed by a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty so that you can drive worry-free.
Contact us today to keep your bearings in top shape and enjoy a safer, quieter drive.