How to Keep Your Car Rolling Smoothly with a Perfect Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly

Your vehicle's rear wheel bearing and hub assembly plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and safe ride. Comprising bearings, a hub, and sensors, this assembly allows the wheels to spin freely while supporting the vehicle's weight and transmitting power from the transmission.

Key Benefits of a Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly

Improved Handling:

Precise bearing alignment optimizes tire contact with the road, enhancing handling and stability.

Source: https://www.carparts.com/blog/wheel-bearings-and-hub-assemblies-everything-you-need-to-know

Reduced Noise and Vibration:

High-quality bearings minimize friction, reducing noise and vibration transmitted to the cabin.

Source: https://www.napaonline.com/en/napa-know-how/article/wheel-bearing-and-hub-assembly-function/how-to/wheel-bearing-and-hub-assembly-function

How to Replace a Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly

Replacing a worn or damaged rear wheel bearing and hub assembly requires specialized knowledge and tools. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Materials:

| Item | Quantity |

|---|---|---|

| Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly | 1 |

| Brake Caliper Bolts | 2 |

| Lug Nuts | 5 |

| Jack | 1 |

| Jack Stand | 2 |

Tools:

| Tool |

|---|---|

| Socket Wrench |

| Torx Socket |

| Hammer |

| Pry Bar |

Steps:

1. Safety First:

- Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.

- Chock the front wheels to prevent movement.

- Support the rear of the vehicle with a jack and jack stands.

2. Remove the Wheel:

- Use a socket wrench to loosen the lug nuts.

- Lift the wheel off the ground and remove the lug nuts completely.

- Pull the wheel straight towards you to detach it from the hub assembly.

3. Disconnect the Brake Caliper:

- Locate the brake caliper bolts and use a Torx socket to remove them.

- Carefully lift the brake caliper off the rotor and secure it out of the way using tie wire.

4. Remove the Hub Assembly:

- Use a hammer and pry bar to carefully tap the hub assembly loose from the spindle.

- Once the hub is loose, pull it straight off the spindle.

5. Install the New Hub Assembly:

- Position the new rear wheel bearing and hub assembly onto the spindle.

- Tap it into place using a hammer.

- Tighten the hub nut to the specified torque using a socket wrench.

6. Reattach the Brake Caliper:

- Place the brake caliper over the rotor and tighten the bolts using a Torx socket.

7. Install the Wheel:

- Lift the wheel onto the hub assembly and align the lug holes.

- Thread the lug nuts onto the bolts and tighten them using a socket wrench.

- Lower the vehicle and fully tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.

Conclusion

A properly functioning rear wheel bearing and hub assembly is vital for a safe and comfortable driving experience. By replacing worn or damaged assemblies and following proper maintenance guidelines, you can ensure optimal performance and longevity for your vehicle.

How to Keep Your Car Rolling Smoothly with a Perfect Rear Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly