Discover The Secret Hacks To Replace Your Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly Like A Pro

Main points

Position a jack under the designated lift point near the wheel and raise the vehicle until there is approximately 6 inches of clearance between the ground and the tire.
Thread the hub nut onto the spindle and tighten it to the specified torque using a torque wrench.
In some cases, it may be possible to replace only the bearing, but it’s generally recommended to replace the entire hub assembly as it provides a more comprehensive solution.

A faulty wheel bearing hub assembly can lead to a bumpy and noisy ride, compromised handling, and even safety hazards. Replacing it is a crucial maintenance task that requires some mechanical know-how and the right tools. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to replace a wheel bearing hub assembly, empowering you to tackle this task with confidence.

Tools and Materials Required

Jack and jack stands
Lug wrench
Socket wrench set
Torque wrench
Hammer or mallet
Pry bar
New wheel bearing hub assembly
Anti-seize lubricant
Brake cleaner
Safety glasses
Gloves

Safety Precautions

Before you begin, ensure your vehicle is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged. Place chocks behind the wheels opposite the one you’re working on. Wear safety glasses and gloves throughout the process.

Step 1: Loosen Lug Nuts

Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel with the faulty bearing, but do not remove them completely.

Step 2: Jack Up Vehicle

Position a jack under the designated lift point near the wheel and raise the vehicle until there is approximately 6 inches of clearance between the ground and the tire. Secure the vehicle with jack stands.

Step 3: Remove Wheel

Completely remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

Step 4: Disconnect Brake Caliper

Locate the brake caliper and remove the bolts holding it in place. Disconnect the brake caliper from the rotor and secure it out of the way using a bungee cord or wire.

Step 5: Remove Brake Rotor

Use a hammer or mallet to tap the brake rotor gently until it comes loose. If it’s stuck, you can spray some brake cleaner around the hub to help free it.

Step 6: Remove Hub Nut

Locate the hub nut in the center of the wheel bearing hub assembly. Use a socket wrench to remove it, but be aware that it may be very tight.

Step 7: Extract Hub Assembly

Using a pry bar, carefully pry the hub assembly out of the knuckle. It may require some force, so be patient.

Step 8: Clean Mounting Surface

Clean the mounting surface on the knuckle where the new hub assembly will be installed. Remove any rust or debris using a wire brush or brake cleaner.

Step 9: Apply Anti-Seize

Apply a thin layer of anti-seize lubricant to the mounting surface of the new hub assembly. This will prevent the hub from seizing in the future.

Step 10: Install New Hub Assembly

Insert the new hub assembly into the knuckle and carefully tap it in using a hammer or mallet. Ensure it is fully seated.

Step 11: Install Hub Nut

Thread the hub nut onto the spindle and tighten it to the specified torque using a torque wrench. Refer to your vehicle’s service manual for the correct torque value.

Step 12: Install Brake Rotor

Place the brake rotor back onto the hub and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.

Step 13: Reconnect Brake Caliper

Reattach the brake caliper to the rotor and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.

Step 14: Install Wheel

Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts by hand.

Step 15: Lower Vehicle

Lower the vehicle by removing the jack stands.

Step 16: Torque Lug Nuts

Using a torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque, following a star pattern to ensure even tightening.

Final Inspection

Double-check all the bolts and nuts to ensure they are tightened to the correct torque. Inspect the brake system to ensure everything is properly connected and functioning.

Discover the Secret Hacks to Replace Your Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly Like a Pro