While driving your car, have you ever experienced a weird noise coming from the wheels? In many cases, the noise comes from the part known as the wheel bearing. A wheel bearing is an important part of your car’s suspension system, and it allows the wheels to spin without unnecessary friction.
Sometimes, the wheel bearing starts to malfunction, and this can produce a distinct sound. Ignoring that sound can cause much worse issues in the future - issues that are also quite expensive to fix. So, to avoid such issues and costly repairs, read this article about wheel bearing noise, its potential causes, and how to fix it:
What Does a Malfunctioning Wheel Bearing Sound Like?
First, let’s see how to recognize a malfunctioning wheel bearing. There are several other things near wheels that could be making noise, so it’s important that you can distinguish different types of noise.
A wheel bearing noise is rather distinct. It starts with a low growling or humming noise. Then, as the vehicle’s speed increases, so does the noise. The noise can also intensify when turning left or right, depending on which side the bearing is malfunctioning.
Sometimes, you will also hear other noises, such as clicking, popping, grinding, or even clunking.
Overall, all these sounds create an impression that one wheel is much louder than the others, and it is impossible not to notice them.
Why Do Wheel Bearings Start To Malfunction?
In general, broken or malfunctioning wheel bearings are common. They break or start to malfunction because of their age and due to the regular wear and tear.
If you drive your car on a regular basis and for a long time, it is inevitable that wheel bearings will get damaged over time.
Additionally, if you often drive through mud and water, they can break the seal in the wheel bearings, which again causes weird noises.
If you tend to overload your car, this can also speed up the wear and tear on your wheel bearings. Sometimes, if you hit a curb or pothole while driving, that can also instantly break your wheel bearing.
How to Confirm The Noise Comes from a Wheel Bearing
Diagnosing a wheel bearing issue isn’t always so easy, especially without lifting the vehicle. Usually, when car mechanics suspect a bearing problem, they raise the car and then physically inspect the wheel for play or wobble.
If the wheel moves too much when pushed from opposite sides, it proves the bearing is loose or broken. Spinning the wheel by hand can also help detect a grinding or rough sensation, both of which are signs of a bearing failure.
In more precise inspections, some shops use chassis ear devices. These devices are basically sensitive microphones that attach to different parts of the car to isolate and locate the source of the sound.
Finally, some mechanics use infrared tools to check for excessive heat around the wheel hub, which often indicates internal friction.
How To Fix Wheel Bearing Noise?
Many drivers ask, “Can you drive with a noisy wheel bearing?” The answer is no, you shouldn’t drive with a noisy wheel bearing. But is wheel bearing noise dangerous? Yes, it is dangerous. Bad wheel bearings can cause you to lose control of your car, endangering you and everyone around you.
This is an issue that should be addressed as soon as possible. Unfortunately, you can’t repair a broken wheel bearing; you can only replace it. Usually, if you aren’t a professional car mechanic, you shouldn’t do this on your own.
There are so many things that can go wrong. Even the tiniest mistake can make your attempt unsuccessful. Still, if you are certain you can pull it off, here is what you should do:
Step 1: Diagnosis and Preparation
First, you need to identify which wheel bearing has failed. You can probably figure it out from the direction of the noise, but you should still confirm it by checking every wheel.
Then, gather the necessary tools: lug wrench, socket set, breaker bar, torque wrench, hammer, and, in some cases, a bearing press or hub puller.
Step 2: Remove the Wheel and Brake Assembly
Start by loosening the lug nuts while the car is still on the ground. Then, jack up the vehicle, secure it with jack stands, and remove the wheel.
Take off the brake caliper and rotor. You will probably need a socket wrench to remove their bolts. Hang the caliper to avoid straining the brake hose. With the rotor off, you should see the hub assembly or bearing housing.
Step 3: Remove the Old Bearing or Hub Assembly
There are two main types of wheel bearings: press-in bearings and bolt-on hub assemblies. Bolt-on hubs are easier to replace.
Once you remove the axle nut and a few bolts behind the hub, you can pull out the entire assembly. If it’s stuck because of rust, you might need a hammer or puller to pull it out.
- Press-in bearings are a bit more complex. You’ll need to remove the steering knuckle. Then, press out the bearing by using a hydraulic or shop press.
- This process requires extra tools and caution to avoid damaging parts during removal and installation.
Step 4: Install the New Bearing or Hub
If you're installing a bolt-on hub, slide the new unit into place and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications. Then, reinstall the axle nut, rotor, and brake caliper in reverse order.
For press-in bearings, press the new bearing into the knuckle without stressing the inner race. Then, reinstall the snap ring and refit everything.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
Once everything is back together (including the brake components and the wheel), lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to spec. Always follow your vehicle’s torque specifications for both the axle nut and lug nuts. Overtightening can damage new parts or compromise safety.
Take the car for a short test drive. Listen carefully. The noise should be completely gone.
If not, we suggest you go to a professional car mechanic.
Tools for Fixing Your Wheel Bearing
Obviously, when trying to fix your wheel bearing, you will need some specialized tools. If you don’t have them, here is what you should buy:
Blind Bearing Puller Set with Slide Hammer Counterstay Adapters Collets, 16-Piece
This precision 16-piece kit removes stuck wheel bearings without causing damage. Built from heavy-duty 45# and chromoly steel, it includes 10 collets to handle a wide range of sizes:
27pc Pull and Press Sleeve Kit Universal Seal Bearing Bushing Removal Installation Tool Kit
If you need some more advanced tools, you can use this tool kit to remove or install wheel bearings. The 27-piece kit includes 22 notched sleeves (34–80 mm) and 5 pulling shafts (M10–M18) for a secure grip and clear visibility:
Conclusion
Hearing a wheel bearing noise stresses out some drivers; others choose to ignore it. Yet, you shouldn’t stress or ignore it. This is a common issue that every driver experiences at least one, but if left unattended, it can lead to some more serious issues. If you plan to fix this issue yourself, use our article as a guide, and don’t forget to get all of the necessary tools!
