Replace Wheel Bearing or Entire Hub: Which Is the Better Choice?

When it comes to replacing a wheel bearing or hub assembly, there are two main options: replace just the bearing or replace the entire hub assembly. Both options have their own benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Story 1: Replace Wheel Bearing

Benefit: Replacing just the bearing is more affordable than replacing the entire hub assembly. According to the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, the average cost of replacing a wheel bearing is between $150 and $300, while the average cost of replacing a hub assembly is between $300 and $600.

How to Do It: Replacing a wheel bearing is a more complex repair than replacing a hub assembly, so it's best to leave it to a professional mechanic. The mechanic will need to remove the wheel, brake caliper, and brake rotor in order to access the bearing. Once the bearing is removed, the mechanic will need to press a new bearing into the hub.

Pros of Replacing Wheel Bearing	Cons of Replacing Wheel Bearing
More affordable	More complex repair
Can be done by a professional mechanic	Requires special tools and equipment
Less downtime	Can be more time-consuming

Story 2: Replace Entire Hub Assembly

Benefit: Replacing the entire hub assembly is a more straightforward repair than replacing just the bearing. This is because the hub assembly comes pre-assembled with the bearing, so the mechanic doesn't have to press a new bearing into the hub.

How to Do It: Replacing a hub assembly is a relatively simple repair that can be done by a do-it-yourselfer with basic tools. The mechanic will need to remove the wheel, brake caliper, and brake rotor in order to access the hub assembly. Once the hub assembly is removed, the mechanic will need to bolt on the new hub assembly.

Pros of Replacing Entire Hub Assembly	Cons of Replacing Entire Hub Assembly
More straightforward repair	More expensive
Can be done by a do-it-yourselfer	Requires special tools and equipment
Less downtime	Can be more time-consuming

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not diagnosing the problem correctly. Before you replace a wheel bearing or hub assembly, it's important to diagnose the problem correctly. If you're not sure what's causing the noise or vibration, take your car to a mechanic for a diagnosis.

Not using the right parts. When you replace a wheel bearing or hub assembly, it's important to use the right parts for your vehicle. Using the wrong parts can lead to premature failure.

Not installing the parts correctly. If you're not sure how to install a wheel bearing or hub assembly, it's important to take your car to a mechanic. Improper installation can lead to premature failure.

FAQs About Replacing Wheel Bearings or Hub Assemblies

How often should I replace my wheel bearings or hub assemblies? The lifespan of wheel bearings and hub assemblies varies depending on the type of vehicle and driving conditions. However, most wheel bearings and hub assemblies will last for at least 100,000 miles.

What are the signs of a bad wheel bearing or hub assembly? The most common signs of a bad wheel bearing or hub assembly are noise, vibration, and play in the wheel.

How much does it cost to replace a wheel bearing or hub assembly? The cost of replacing a wheel bearing or hub assembly varies depending on the type of vehicle and the labor rates in your area. However, the average cost of replacing a wheel bearing is between $150 and $300, while the average cost of replacing a hub assembly is between $300 and $600.

Replace Wheel Bearing or Entire Hub: Which Is the Better Choice?