Wheel bearings are a necessary part of your suspension. They’re usually located in the hub or brake drum, and they will help your wheels rotate smoothly when it moves. If you hear whirring or humming noises, or the ABS light comes on, it may be time to consider installation of a new bearing. It is easy to do this yourself, but you can always go to a professional if you’re uncomfortable with the process. Likewise, the instructions provided are a general-use application; your vehicle may be different.
The Initial Steps
First, you’ll want to park the vehicle on a flat surface to ensure that you are safe and your car will not roll over onto you. Likewise, you should set your parking brake. Get out your wheel chocks and place them behind the wheels you’re not working on. The next step is to jack up the vehicle and loosen the lug nuts. Now, you can remove the lug nuts and keep them in a safe place, as well as remove the wheels.
Brake Caliper
The next step is to remove your brake caliper with a ratchet and socket, removing the bolts first and then the caliper with a screwdriver. It will not come completely off and will remain attached to the brake hose, so make sure you secure it so that it won’t dangle or break.
Rotors
Wheel bearing installation isn’t complete until you remove the cotter pin, dust cover, and castle nut. The exposed rotor should have a small cap so that you can remove the rotor. Then, you’ll firmly, yet gently bump the rotor with your palm until it loosens.
Bolts/Hubs
The next step is to unscrew all the hub bolts and remove the hub. Wheel bearing installation doesn’t have to mean replacing the hub, but many times, you’ll find a kit, which can make the process a little easier for beginners.