Rear Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost: Everything You Need to Know

Understanding the Rear Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost

Your vehicle's rear wheel bearings play a critical role in ensuring smooth and safe driving. However, over time, these bearings can wear out or become damaged, necessitating replacement. The rear wheel bearing replacement cost can vary depending on factors such as the vehicle make and model, the severity of the damage, and the location of the repair.

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| Average Rear Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost | $600-$1,500 |
| Labor Cost | $100-$500 |
| Parts Cost | $200-$1,000 |

Benefits of Replacing Rear Wheel Bearings

Improved Safety: Worn or damaged rear wheel bearings can lead to uneven tire wear, reduced stability, and increased risk of accidents. By replacing them, you can enhance your vehicle's handling and safety, reducing the likelihood of costly incidents.

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| --- | --- |
| Reduced Tire Wear | Yes |
| Improved Stability | Yes |
| Increased Safety | Yes |

Extended Tire Life: Replacing rear wheel bearings can prevent premature tire wear, saving you money on tire replacements in the long run. Worn bearings can cause tires to wobble or shake, leading to uneven wear and reduced tread life.

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| --- | --- |
| Average Tire Cost | $100-$300 |
| Tire Lifespan with Worn Bearings | 30,000-60,000 miles |
| Tire Lifespan with New Bearings | 70,000-100,000 miles |

How to Replace Rear Wheel Bearings

1. Gather Tools and Materials:

• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Lug wrench
• Jack
• Jack stands
• Wheel chocks
• Socket set
• Torque wrench
• Rear wheel bearing replacement kit

2. Prepare the Vehicle:

• Park the vehicle on a flat and stable surface.
• Engage the parking brake.
• Place wheel chocks behind the front wheels.
• Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel but do not remove them.

3. Raise the Vehicle:

• Position the jack under the designated jack point on the rear wheel side.
• Slowly raise the vehicle until the flat tire is about 6 inches off the ground.
• Place jack stands under the rear axle to support the vehicle.

4. Remove the Wheel:

• Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and lift off the wheel.

5. Remove the Brake Caliper:

• Remove the bolts holding the brake caliper in place.
• Carefully unhook the brake caliper and hang it on the suspension with a bungee cord.

6. Remove the Brake Rotor:

• Use a hammer and chisel to gently tap the brake rotor loose.
• If necessary, use a brake rotor puller to remove the rotor.

7. Remove the Wheel Bearing:

• Locate the wheel bearing housing.
• Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the bearing in place.
• Carefully pry the bearing out of the housing using a bearing puller or a pry bar.

8. Install the New Wheel Bearing:

• Inspect the new bearing and ensure it fits snugly into the housing.
• Apply a small amount of grease to the bearing and the housing.
• Carefully press the new bearing into the housing using a bearing driver or a large socket.

9. Install the Brake Rotor:

• Place the brake rotor over the wheel bearing.
• Tighten the lug nuts by hand and then use a torque wrench to torque them to the specified torque.

10. Install the Brake Caliper:

• Reattach the brake caliper and tighten the bolts.

11. Install the Wheel:

• Place the wheel on the wheel hub.
• Hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• Use a torque wrench to torque the lug nuts to the specified torque.

12. Lower the Vehicle:

• Slowly lower the vehicle by removing the jack stands.
• Tighten the wheel chocks.

13. Check Brake Fluid:

• Check the brake fluid level and top up if necessary.

14. Test Drive:

• Take the vehicle for a test drive and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.
• Check for any signs of leaks.

FAQs About Rear Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost

Q: How often should I replace rear wheel bearings?
A: The typical lifespan of rear wheel bearings is 50,000-100,000 miles, depending on driving habits and road conditions.

Q: What are the signs of bad rear wheel bearings?
A: Symptoms include humming or grinding noises, vibration in the steering wheel or floorboard, uneven tire wear, and reduced stability.

Q: How long does it take to replace rear wheel bearings?
A: The repair time can vary depending on the vehicle make and model, but generally takes between 2-4 hours per wheel.