Wheel Bearing Wear - Rear Drive Axle (Tapered): Smears

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2003 GMC Yukon XL, 2003 GMC Yukon, 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Smears - Rear Drive Axle (Tapered)

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Smearing of the metal due to slippage. Slippage can be caused by the following factors:

Poor fits
Lubrication
Overheating
Overloads
Handling damage

Replace the bearings. Clean the related parts. Check for proper fit and lubrication.