Cost to Replace Wheel Bearings: A Guide to Understanding Expenses

The cost to replace wheel bearings can vary depending on several factors, including the type of vehicle, the location of the bearings, and the labor costs in your area. In general, you can expect to pay between $150 and $450 per wheel for replacement.

Benefits of Replacing Wheel Bearings

Replacing worn wheel bearings can provide several benefits, including:

Improved safety: Worn wheel bearings can cause your vehicle to pull to one side or the other, which can be dangerous at high speeds.

Reduced noise: Worn wheel bearings can make a grinding or howling noise, which can be annoying and distracting.

Improved fuel efficiency: Properly functioning wheel bearings reduce friction, which can help to improve fuel efficiency.

How to Replace Wheel Bearings

Replacing wheel bearings is a job that can be done at home with the right tools and knowledge. Here are the basic steps involved:

Remove the wheel and tire.

Remove the brake caliper and rotor.

Remove the hub assembly.

Press out the old wheel bearing.

Press in the new wheel bearing.

Reassemble the hub assembly, brake caliper, and rotor.

Install the wheel and tire.

Tell Tale Signs You Need to Replace Wheel Bearings

Unusual Noises

You may hear grinding, squealing, or growling noises while driving or when turning corners. This is usually an indication that one or more wheel bearings have worn down.

Uneven Tire Wear

The tires may start to wear unevenly if the wheel bearings are not functioning correctly. This is because the worn bearings cause the wheels to wobble, which can lead to uneven wear on the tires.

Loose or Shaky Steering Wheel

The steering wheel may feel loose or shaky if the wheel bearings are worn. This is because the worn bearings allow the wheels to move more freely, which can lead to a loss of steering control.

Cost of Wheel Bearing Replacement

The cost to replace wheel bearings can vary depending on several factors, including:

The type of vehicle

The location of the bearings

The labor costs in your area

In general, you can expect to pay between $150 and $450 per wheel for replacement.

Labor Rates

The labor costs to replace wheel bearings can vary depending on the location of the repair shop and the experience of the mechanic. In general, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 per hour for labor.

Parts Costs

The cost of the wheel bearings themselves can vary depending on the type of vehicle and the location of the bearings. In general, you can expect to pay between $50 and $150 per bearing.

Total Cost

The total cost to replace wheel bearings can range from $200 to $600 per wheel. This cost includes the cost of the bearings, the labor costs, and any other necessary parts or materials.

Cost to Replace Wheel Bearings: A Guide to Understanding Expenses