Wheels are one of the most important parts of any vehicle, and they need to be functioning properly in order to ensure a safe ride. However, over time, wheel bearings can start to wear down, which can lead to decreased performance and even accidents. In this blog article, we will provide you with tips on how often to replace wheel bearings, as well as advice on how to prevent them from happening in the first place. By following these tips, you can keep your wheels running smoothly and avoid any accidents.
How Often To Replace Wheel Bearings
One common question that car owners ask is how often should they replace their wheel bearings. In short,it depends on the type of driving you do and your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.
If you drive your car mostly in smooth, flat terrain, you can usually go about 600 miles before you need to replace your wheel bearings. If you drive in hilly or mountainous terrain, or if you regularly tow heavy objects, then you may need to replace them more frequently. Consult your owner’s manual for specific advice on how often to replace your wheel bearings.
What Factors Affect Bearing Life
Bearing life is a term used to describe the time that a bearing will last before it needs to be replaced. There are many factors that can affect bearing life, such as operating temperature, type of lubricant used, and age of the bearing.
One of the most important factors that can affect bearing life is operating temperature. Higher temperatures will cause bearings to wear more quickly due to the increase in friction. Bearings should also be replaced sooner if they are exposed to high temperatures on a regular basis, such as in a car or truck engine.
Type of lubricants also play an important role in how long a bearing will last. Silicone based lubricants tend to last longer than oil based lubricants, but both types have their own limitations. Oil based lubricants can become sticky over time and may require more frequent maintenance than silicone based lubricants.
Age also plays a role in how long a bearing will last. New bearings usually have a shorter life than older bearings because they are subjected to higher loads and temperatures from the beginning. As bearings age, they become less responsive and may require replacement earlier than expected.
Types of Wheel Bearings
There are a few types of wheel bearings that you may encounter on your vehicle. The most common type is the sealed bearing, which uses oil to keep the bearings lubricated. Self-lubricating bearings use a special compound to create their own lubrication. Cartridge bearings are also common, and they use tiny metal cartridges to move the wheel. These bearings can be replaced with a simple tool or by using a bearing puller. Finally, roller bearings are used in high-speed applications and require special tools to replace them.
How to Check for and Replace Wheel Bearings
If your wheel bearings are making a lot of noise, or you notice that your car is pulling to one side when you drive, it may be time to replace them. Here’s how to check for and replace wheel bearings:
1. Locate the parking brake handle.
2. Raise the car up onto two or four jackstands so that the wheels are off the ground.
3. Remove the wheel.
4.Remove the hubcap or tire cover and identify which end of the bearing is on the axle (the “hub”).
5. Use a 3/8-in.-diameter wrench to remove the nut that holds the bearing in place on the axle (see Figure A). The end of the bearing closest to the hub should come off first (Figure B). Note: If your car has more than one wheel bearing, repeat steps 5 and 6 for each bearing.
6. Install a new bearing by reversing steps 4 through 6, replacing the end of the Bearing closest to where it was removed in step 3 (see Figure C). Tighten nut using a 3/8-in.-diameter wrench as before (Figure D). Replace hubcap or tire cover and torque screws to 75 ft./min.(23 Nm) or less using a torque wrench (see Figure E).
7. Drive your car around for a while to make sure everything is working properly, then return it to normal driving conditions
Conclusion
Wheel bearings typically last around 10,000 miles before they need to be replaced. However, depending on the type of wheel bearing and how it is used, it may require more or less frequent replacement. To figure out when a bearing should be replaced in your vehicle, you’ll need to do some research and consult with a qualified mechanic. In general, though, you can expect to replace your wheel bearings every 7-10 years.