Wheel Bearing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Tools Required: Dial Indicator (J-8001).

The following procedure describes how to inspect the wheel bearing/hub for excessive looseness. If you are inspecting the wheel bearing/hub for excessive runout, see HUB/AXLE FLANGE & WHEEL STUD RUNOUT INSPECTION in WHEEL & TIRE SYSTEM article.

Raise and support the vehicle.

NOTE: If you are inspecting the front wheel bearing/hub, support the front of the vehicle by the lower control arms in order to load the lower ball joint.

Mount and secure the J-8001 to a stand. See Fig 1.
Ensure that the J-8001 contacts the vertical surface of the wheel as close as possible to the top wheel stud.
Push and pull on the top of the tire.
Inspect the total movement indicated by the J-8001 .
If the measurement exceeds 0.005" (0.127 mm), replace the wheel bearing/hub. See WHEEL BEARING/HUB in FRONT article.

Fig 1: Mounting Dial Indicator

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.