How Do You Replace Front Wheel Bearings?
Recently the right front wheel bearing went bad on my 2002 Mazda 626. Apparently my oldest daughter hit a large pot hole bending the wheel and damaging the wheel bearing. I noticed a slight hum in the front end with a slight shutter as well, I thought that the tires needed to be balances and rotated, so I took it into the shop to be checked out. Well to my surprise I was told the bad news and what was worse was the amount they wanted to charge – over $500 to fix bearing and to replace the wheel. That is when I decided to do it myself. Below I will help you by listing the tools you will need and steps on how to get it done. Things you will need: Large adjustable wrench Channelocks Bearing race driver tool Various size punches Socket and ratchet set Assorted wrenches A rags or two New wheel bearings Wheel bearing grease New cotter pin New grease seals Wheel blocks Safety glasses A jack and a pair of jack stands Even if the bearings are not making a noise it is always a good idea to have
