What are Wheel Bearings?
The wheels on your vehicle do not fit directly to the axles. Wheels and wheel hubs require bearings to roll smoothly on their axles. You’ll always find some type of bearing mounted between your wheel hubs and your axles.
The wheels on your vehicle do not fit directly to the axles. Wheels and wheel hubs require bearings to roll smoothly on their axles. You’ll always find some type of bearing mounted between your wheel hubs and your axles.
Bearings create a smooth, regular surface between fixed and moving parts. The wheel on your vehicle spins at a high rate of speed, yet the axle must remain fixed in place, pivoting on the suspension components. Bearings allow the wheel to spin while the axle remains fixed.
Many domestic SUVs and trucks require front wheel bearing lubrication as a periodic maintenance item. It’s a good idea to lube the bearings every time you remove your truck’s wheels.
Wheel bearings are made from steel forgings that are machined to shape. Most bearings have two parts, the inner bearing set and the outer bearing race. The inner bearing contains small steel balls that ride on the outer race as the wheel, or other reciprocating part, turns. The race is mounted on the wheel hub, which often has the brake rotors attached.
Although there are many different types of wheel bearings, they all share the same basic shape and function. Replacing them is only moderately difficult if you encounter stuck, stripped, or corroded fasteners or bearing parts along the way.
If you have questions or concerns about wheel bearings or any of your vehicle’s components, come into your local Pep Boys where we can answer any question, help you find any part, or perform any vehicle service you might need.
Routine vehicle maintenance can include several different jobs your car, truck, or SUV needs to have done to operate safely and smoothly. While every make and model has its own nuances...
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