How well do you know the wheel-bearing functions of your car? Did you know that your car has a wheel bearing system? Despite being very small in size, these car parts play a vital role in keeping your car running smoothly for many years.
The wheel bearings in a car need replacing regularly. The signs of a bad bearing are pretty easy to recognize by people with a basic level of skill and experience.
For example, something like “a knocking sound” or “difficulty turning” your vehicle can be a sight that you need a wheel bearing replacement.
If you notice these early warning signs, then go ahead and get them replaced so as to prevent unnecessary damage to other parts of the steering system, the undercarriage, wheels, or the tires.
Continue reading to learn more about wheel bearing replacement costs and how to save on wheel bearing replacement.
How Much Does Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost?
Also Read: Timing Chain Replacement Cost – Best Price Estimate
How to Know if You Need a Wheel Bearing Replacement?
There are some common indicators that can be used to determine the condition and health of your wheel bearings. Here are some bad wheel-bearing Symptoms.
1. Uneven Tire Wear
During wear, wheel bearings can wear differently from others. The corresponding tire is going to show abnormal wear as opposed to the others.
It is common for tires to wear out evenly over a period of time from simply driving them; however, if your tires wear out unevenly, it could be a sign that you need a wheel bearing replacement.
Other factors, like unbalanced tires or improper wheel alignments, can also contribute to uneven tire wear. Do not always assume it’s a wheel bearing until other symptoms become obvious.
2. Vehicle Pulls to One Side
It is possible for wheel bearings to become corroded, pitted, or damaged due to wear and this is a sign that you need a wheel bearing replacement.
The rough surface of the bearing causes vibration, which may result in your car pulling slightly to one side.
Additionally, the car may pull to the side when applying the brakes, which usually indicates bad brake rotors or calipers, or both.
Nevertheless, it might also be an indication of a wheel bearing tear as a result of excessive runout requiring a wheel bearing replacement.
3. Grinding Noise
Grinding noises from your tires are a sign that you need a wheel bearing replacement. This occurs when the wheel bearings lose lubricity, and as a result, heat builds up inside them, so they become hot.
There will be a sound almost like two pieces of metal grinding together. Because the wheels become worn out unevenly, you are more likely to hear one wheel’s sound than all the others.
This sound is most noticeable during either shifting or turning.
4. Steering Wheel Vibrates
If the problem gets worse,
your steering wheel will begin vibrating. At first, the vibration will be felt very light but will get progressively more intense as you accelerate and step on the gas pedal.
The most common explanation is that unevenly balanced tires cause vibration. Although both symptoms are very similar, the vibrations caused by unevenly balanced tires usually occur more often at high speeds.
Nonetheless, you should have your vehicle officially inspected and diagnosed by a mechanic.
5. Excessive Wobble or Play In Wheels
This symptom can be difficult to diagnose because you need to either jack up the vehicle or place the wheels on jack stands to inspect it.
Take the wheel, slowly rock it back and forth, and watch how much the wheel can move or “play.” Then repeat this gesture with the opposite end of the axle.
It will wobble or move when you rock a wheel with faulty wheel bearings. A good wheel bearing will make sure the wheel has very little play or wobble.
What Do Various Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost
On Average, Wheel bearing replacement costs between $200 and $800. The labor costs for replacing a wheel bearing are between $140 and $200, while the parts cost between $150 and $400. This price range does not include taxes or fees and does not consider your vehicle and unique location.
It is important to note how many factors can affect the cost of replacing a wheel bearing, like the vehicle’s make and model, the garage’s labor rate, and the parts’ cost.
Typically, replacing one wheel bearing will cost about $350. Luxury brands, however, tend to cost more.
Now let’s discuss how much it costs to replace the front, rear, and hub bearings.
Also Read: Tie Rod Replacement Cost – Best Cost Estimate
Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost For Front Wheel Bearings
Here is the average wheel bearing replacement Cost For One Side of the Front Wheel Bearings and for both sides of the front wheel bearing.
Both Sides
A vehicle’s front wheel bearings consist of two bearings located in the knuckle arms at either end of the axle. These bearings have a much longer life expectancy than most other parts of your vehicle.
Replacing both rear wheel bearings can cost anywhere from $260 to $480.
Bearings parts for the front wheel alone can cost you between $120 to $200. Labor fees for front wheel bearings will cost about $140 to $280, depending on where you live and what your vehicle is made of.
You should be prepared to pay more for sports cars, large trucks, and luxury cars.
One Side
wheel bearing replacement Cost For One Side of the Front Wheel Bearings is much cheaper than when you have to replace both sides. The average cost of the entire project is $130 – $220. Parts will run between $60-$100, while labor will cost between $70-$140.
Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost For Rear Wheel Bearings
Here is the average wheel bearing replacement Cost For One Side of the Rear Wheel Bearings and for both sides of the Rear Wheel Bearings.
Both Sides
The rear-wheel bearings are slightly more affordable, but it depends on the make and model of your car. Averagely, an entire replacement of the rear wheel bearings is going to cost about $240.
Parts costs will be between $100 and $180, with labor costs ranging from $140 to $280.
One Side
The cost of simple repair work such as replacing a single rear wheel bearing costs $120. For a complete work, Parts will cost about $50-$90 while labor costs vary from $70-$140.
Although these are just estimates, they give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of costs.
It’s good to know that wheel bearings don’t wear out easily. This means that you won’t have to replace them too frequently.
Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost For Rear Hub Bearings
The wheel bearings of some vehicles can be prepacked and then installed as a whole unit in the rear hub bearing assembly.
These vehicles also require the replacement of the entire hub assembly, rather than just the wheel bearings.
Replacing the hub assembly for your vehicle is more expensive than replacing the bearings in the hub.
Be prepared to spend anywhere from $450 to $800 in order to replace the two hub assemblies.
Though the prices of parts vary according to the complexity of the assembly, labor costs are typically lower than if replacing a standard rear-bearing.
How to Replace a Wheel Bearing
Watch this video to learn how to replace your wheel bearing yourself. This will save you money on the overall wheel bearing replacement cost
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you replace just one wheel bearing?
How long does it take to replace wheel bearings?
What happens if you don’t fix a wheel bearing?
Conclusion
Wheel bearings are necessary for smooth driving. If the wheels have trouble moving, it’s easy to lose control of the vehicle, causing a potential danger for yourself and other drivers on the road.
It’s rare for wheel bearings to last longer than five years. If you intend on keeping your car longer, replace your wheel bearings regularly.
On Average, Wheel bearing replacement costs between $200 and $800. The labor costs for replacing a wheel bearing are between $140 and $200, while the parts cost between $150 and $400. This price range does not include taxes or fees and does not consider your vehicle and unique location.
To get the best wheel bearing replacement cost for your vehicle and location, be sure to visit multiple shops and mechanics. This will ensure that you get the best wheel bearing replacement cost for your car and that your car receives the best possible service.