How Much Does a Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost? [2023 Update]

Introduction:

If you've been experiencing a grinding or humming noise coming from your wheels, it's likely that you need to replace your wheel bearings. But how much will it cost? In this article, we'll break down the average cost of wheel bearing replacement, including labor and parts. We'll also provide some tips on how to save money on your repair.

Average Cost of Wheel Bearing Replacement

The average cost of wheel bearing replacement varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the location of the repair. However, you can expect to pay between $150 and $600 for the parts and labor.

Vehicle Type	Average Cost
Compact car	$200-$300
Midsize car	$250-$400
SUV or truck	$300-$600

Labor Costs

The labor cost for wheel bearing replacement will vary depending on the complexity of the repair. In general, you can expect to pay between $75 and $200 for labor.

Repair Complexity	Labor Cost
Front wheel bearing replacement	$75-$150
Rear wheel bearing replacement	$100-$200
4-wheel bearing replacement	$200-$400

Parts Costs

The cost of the parts for wheel bearing replacement will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $300 for the parts.

Part	Cost
Front wheel bearing	$50-$150
Rear wheel bearing	$100-$200
Wheel bearing hub assembly	$150-$300

How to Save Money on Wheel Bearing Replacement

There are a few things you can do to save money on wheel bearing replacement:

Compare prices from multiple mechanics.

Get a second opinion before having the repair done.

Shop around for parts.

Do the repair yourself (if you're mechanically inclined).

Benefits of Replacing Wheel Bearings

There are several benefits to replacing your wheel bearings, including:

Improved safety: Worn wheel bearings can lead to wheel failure, which can be dangerous.

Reduced noise: Worn wheel bearings can cause a grinding or humming noise.

Improved fuel efficiency: Worn wheel bearings can increase rolling resistance, which can reduce fuel efficiency.

Extended tire life: Worn wheel bearings can cause tires to wear prematurely.

How to Replace Wheel Bearings

Replacing wheel bearings is a complex repair, but it can be done at home with the right tools and knowledge. Here are the steps involved:

Safety first: Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.

Remove the wheel: Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that needs to be replaced. Then, lift the vehicle off the ground using a floor jack and place it on jack stands. Remove the wheel.

Remove the brake caliper: Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts that hold the brake caliper in place. Then, lift the caliper off the rotor and hang it out of the way.

Remove the wheel bearing: Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts that hold the wheel bearing in place. Then, use a pry bar to pry the wheel bearing out of the hub.

Install the new wheel bearing: Place the new wheel bearing into the hub and tighten the bolts.

Install the brake caliper: Place the brake caliper back on the rotor and tighten the bolts.

Install the wheel: Place the wheel back on the hub and tighten the lug nuts.

Lower the vehicle: Use a floor jack to lower the vehicle off the jack stands. Then, tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when replacing wheel bearings:

Overtightening the bolts: This can damage the wheel bearing or the hub.

Not using the correct torque: This can also damage the wheel bearing or the hub.

Not replacing the brake caliper bolts: These bolts can become damaged over time and should be replaced whenever the brake caliper is removed.

Not bleeding the brakes: This can lead to a loss of brake pressure.

FAQs About Wheel Bearing Replacement

Here are some frequently asked questions about wheel bearing replacement:

How often do wheel bearings need to be replaced? Wheel bearings typically last for 50,000 to 100,000 miles, but they may need to be replaced more often if you drive on rough roads or in harsh weather conditions.

What are the signs of worn wheel bearings? The most common signs of worn wheel bearings are a grinding or humming noise, increased play in the wheel, and premature tire wear.

Can I replace wheel bearings myself? You can replace wheel bearings yourself if you have the right tools and knowledge, but it is a complex repair. If you are not mechanically inclined, it is best to have the repair done by a qualified mechanic.

Conclusion:

Replacing wheel bearings is a necessary repair that can help to improve safety, reduce noise, improve fuel efficiency, and extend tire life. The average cost of wheel bearing replacement is between $150 and $600, but you can save money by comparing prices from multiple mechanics, getting a second opinion, and shopping around for parts. If you are mechanically inclined, you can also do the repair yourself.

How Much Does a Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost? [2023 Update]