Subaru Wheel Bearing Replacement: A Comprehensive Guide for Trouble-Free Miles

Replacing a wheel bearing on a Subaru can be a daunting task, especially for inexperienced drivers. However, with the right tools, guidance, and a bit of patience, you can tackle this project successfully. This article provides a step-by-step approach to Subaru wheel bearing replacement, along with its importance, benefits, and a comprehensive comparison of different methods.

Why Wheel Bearing Replacement Matters

Wheel bearings play a crucial role in your Subaru's safety and performance. They allow your wheels to rotate smoothly, reducing friction and ensuring stability. A faulty wheel bearing can lead to a range of issues, including:

• Increased noise: Worn bearings produce a grinding or humming sound, especially when making turns.
• Reduced fuel efficiency: Drag from damaged bearings can increase fuel consumption.
• Premature tire wear: Misaligned wheels caused by worn bearings can lead to uneven tire wear.
• Safety concerns: A seized or overheated bearing can cause loss of control and even a crash.

Benefits of Replacing Wheel Bearings

Replacing worn wheel bearings offers several benefits:

• Improved performance: New bearings reduce friction, enhance handling, and increase fuel efficiency.
• Quieter ride: Smooth-running bearings eliminate grinding noises, making your drive more comfortable.
• Extended tire life: Properly aligned bearings prevent premature tire wear, saving you money on tires.
• Enhanced safety: Reliable bearings ensure proper wheel rotation, reducing the risk of accidents.

Pros and Cons of Different Methods

There are two main methods for replacing wheel bearings:

Step-by-Step Approach to Subaru Wheel Bearing Replacement

Tools and Materials:

• Floor jack
• Jack stands
• Socket wrench
• Torque wrench
• Wheel chocks
• New wheel bearing
• Grease

Steps:

1. Prepare: Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels opposite the one you're replacing. Jack up the affected vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
2. Remove the wheel: Use a socket wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts, then lift the wheel off the axle.
3. Disconnect the brake caliper: Unbolt the brake caliper from the hub and secure it out of the way. Do not let it hang by the brake hose.
4. Remove the rotor: Slide the rotor off the hub. If it's stuck, tap it gently with a hammer.
5. Pull out the old hub assembly: Use a hub puller to extract the hub assembly from the suspension components.
6. Replace the bearing: If you're replacing just the bearing, remove the old one using a bearing separator. Grease the new bearing and install it into the hub.
7. Reassemble: Lubricate all mating surfaces and reassemble the hub assembly onto the suspension. Tighten the hub nut to the specified torque.
8. Install the rotor and caliper: Place the rotor back on the hub and tighten the bolts. Reattach the brake caliper and tighten the bolts.
9. Install the wheel: Lift the wheel onto the axle and tighten the lug nuts using a torque wrench.
10. Lower the vehicle: Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle.
11. Test drive: Take the vehicle for a short test drive to check for any noises or vibrations.

Effective Strategies for Extending Wheel Bearing Life

• Regular maintenance: Inspect your vehicle's wheel bearings regularly for signs of wear.
• Avoid overloading: Overloading your Subaru can put excessive stress on the wheel bearings.
• Drive carefully over rough roads: Potholes and other road hazards can damage wheel bearings.
• Use high-quality parts: Invest in high-quality replacement bearings to ensure longevity.

Humorous Stories and Lessons Learned

1. The Buzzing Beetle: A Volkswagen Beetle was brought to a mechanic with a mysterious buzzing noise. After replacing numerous parts, the mechanic realized the sound came from a loose wheel bearing. The lesson: Don't jump to conclusions; check all potential causes before making expensive repairs.

2. The Wobbly Wagon: A family on a road trip experienced a sudden wobble in their station wagon. When they pulled over, they discovered a completely shattered wheel bearing. The lesson: Ignoring warning signs like increased noise or vibration can lead to catastrophic failures.

   

3. The Speedy Safety: A mechanic was replacing a wheel bearing but accidentally installed it backward. During a test drive, the car accelerated on its own! The lesson: Always pay attention to details, especially when dealing with safety-critical components.

Useful Tables

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)**

1. How long does a Subaru wheel bearing last?
   - Typically around 100,000 to 150,000 miles.

2. Can I replace wheel bearings myself?
   - Yes, but it requires some mechanical skills and specialized tools.

3. How often should I inspect my wheel bearings?
   - Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle's maintenance schedule.

4. What are the signs of a bad wheel bearing?
   - Grinding or humming noise, uneven tire wear, excessive play in the wheel.

5. Can a bad wheel bearing cause damage to other components?
   - Yes, it can damage the hub, axle, or brake system.

   

6. How long does it take to replace a wheel bearing?
   - 2-4 hours for a skilled mechanic.

7. Is it safe to drive with a bad wheel bearing?
   - No, it can lead to accidents or further damage to your vehicle.

8. How much does it cost to get a wheel bearing replaced at a shop?
   - Varies depending on the type of bearing, location, and labor rates, but typically around $300-$700.