How much custom wheel bearing replacement cost?
The wheel bearing might seem like a small thing to you, right? But it is not! For the vehicle’s performance, these bearings are a crucial component. A failed wheel bearing can cause costly repairs and safety issues. So, if the wheel bearing is damaged, the driving becomes unsafe. They will allow the wheel of the vehicle to roll easily.
You have not noticed them yet, but they are essential for smooth driving. When they get damaged, it affects the brake and you will feel constant pressure on the steering.
You have to understand everything about wheel bearings. It will allow you to avoid significant problems and have a safe driving experience.
In this blog, we will share a complete guide about wheel bearings. Keep reading to find out what wheel bearings are, why they are essential, their types and much more.
What Are Wheel Bearings?
A wheel bearing played a crucial role in balancing the wheel of the vehicle. It will allow the wheel to rotate smoothly with minimal friction. It is made of small steel balls or rollers inside the ring and placed in the wheel hub. The wheel bearing holds the entire weight of the vehicle. It also reduces the friction rate. If the wheel bearing is not in good condition, then the wheels will make noise, wear out faster, and driving will be unsafe.
Why Wheel Bearings Are Important?
The wheel bearing is an integral part of the wheel. It enables smooth driving and helps prevent expensive repairs. Below, we share the reasons why wheel bearings are essential:
Helps to spin the wheel smoothly – it reduces friction, allowing the wheel to turn easily.
Protect other parts – a healthy wheel bearing will avoid wear on tires, brakes and suspension.
Improve safety – a bad wheel bearing can cause noise, vibration, or even wheel failure. And the good one will keep the vehicle stable
Support the vehicle’s weight – the wheel bearing also carries the load of the car as it moves.
Make driving comfortable – they allow a smoother ride by preventing rough movement.
Types of Wheel Bearings
There are multiple types of wheel bearings. Here we mentioned the three most common ones:
Ball Bearing
Ball bearings are the most regular types of bearings. These bearings have around metal balls. It allows movement in any direction by handling both radial and thrust loads. Ball bearings are suitable for passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks. The reason is that their small contact area limits their ability to withstand heavy shocks.
Tapered Roller or Cone Shape Bearings
Tapered roller bearings are also known as conical shape bearings. Because they use angled and conical rollers that can carry both radial and axial loads. Their special design helps protect moving parts and reduce friction while taking turns. This makes them perfect for heavy vehicles such as trucks.
Precision Ball Bearings
Built for accuracy and significant performance needs. Compared to standard ball bearings, precision ball bearings offer higher strength. It will also provide lower friction and withstand high rotational speeds. That’s why these are ideal for luxury and performance vehicles.
Signs When A Vehicle Needs Wheel Bearing Replacement
To save money and avoid significant damage, it is better to recognize the early signs of a bad wheel bearing. Below, we mention the conditions when your vehicle needs wheel bearing replacement:
The humming, grinding or growling noises become louder when you accelerate.
Vibrations of the steering wheel
Uneven tire wear
Vehicle pulling more to one side.
ABS failures or the appearance of warning lights from brake pulsing
Ignoring all these mentioned symptoms can lead to complete bearing failure. So you will also save money on costly repair services.
How Much Does a Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost
The pricing of replacing a wheel bearing can be based on several factors. It includes which wheel needs service, the type of bearing and the design of the vehicle.
Compared to rear bearings, front wheel bearings are generally less expensive to replace. It happens if the vehicle uses standard bearing assemblies instead of hub-style systems, which add extra cost.
Rear wheel bearings, particularly on cars with sealed hubs. It tends to be pricier due to the complexity of the rear suspension system.
Luxury, exotic and specialty vehicles command much higher replacement costs. The reason behind this is that these vehicles may require specialized parts or additional labor time.
How To Maintain Your Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings are designed for the durability and safety of the vehicle. They will extend the tire’s life and delay costly replacements. Here we mentioned the tips to keep the wheel bearing in good condition:
Drive carefully
Try to avoid rough roads and sharp turns whenever possible. It will reduce stress on the wheel bearings.
Stay out of mud and deep water
Light splashes are delicate, but to prevent contamination, avoid submerging the wheel hub.
Replace bearings in pairs
If one bearing fails, the other is likely to have similar wear. To save time and help prevent future breakdowns, replace both of them.
Choose quality parts
For this, research brands that offer quality service. Their wheel alignment and wheel balancing service provides warranties of improved reliability.
Install bearings properly
Using worn bolts or seals can lead to damage or failure. For a safer and lasting repair, always install the new ones.
Use specific vehicle bearings
Do not forget to check compatibility. It is based on the make, model and year of the vehicle.
Upgrade for modifications
If your vehicle is customized, then consider stronger performance bearings.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we discover that it is essential to keep the wheel bearings in a good working condition. When these are in good condition, you will enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride. The wheel bearings will keep the car safe by reducing the friction rate. If you change the wheel bearing promptly, then you can avoid costly repairs.
At Just Wheels Direct, we provide reliable wheel bearings. We also have a wide range of custom wheels, alloy wheels, wheel replacement and tire and wheel packages. Our wheels will keep your car running safely and looking great.
FAQs
How much does a change of wheel bearing cost?
Most commonly, replacing a wheel bearing costs depend on multiple things. Like type of vehicle, labor rates and whether it is a single bearing or a complete hub assembly.
What is the duration of a wheel bearing?
The wheel bearings last almost 70,000 to 100,000 miles in many vehicles. But it still depends on driving conditions, road quality and the car’s maintenance. Heavy loads, rough roads or poor installation will cause the wheel bearing to wear out sooner.
Is it possible to drive with a bad wheel bearing?
No, driving with a bad wheel bearing is never a safe option. A failing bearing can cause the shaking of the wheel. It also damages other parts, causing the wheel to come loose. So it is best to have it inspected and replaced as early as possible.
Do heavy tires affect the life of the wheel bearing?
Yes. Because heavy tires put extra stress on wheel bearings. So the life of the wheel bearing is shortened. With increased load, heavy tires cause the bearings to wear out quickly. To avoid this problem, always use the recommended tire size. It will help you keep your wheel bearings lasting longer.
Which website is best for wheel bearings?
Just Wheel Direct is here to help you with wheel bearings and other services.