Diagnosis And Testing - Hub Bearing - Noise: Notes
The wheel bearing is designed to last for the life of the vehicle and requires no type of periodic maintenance. If it becomes necessary to replace a faulty bearing, do not replace in pairs unless Service Information specifically states to do so.
Bearings will produce noise if worn or damaged. The noise will generally change when the bearings are loaded. A road test of the vehicle is normally required to determine if there is a bearing noise, or if it is some other component. To assist in finding the location, the following procedure, together with the DIAGNOSTIC TABLE , should help determine if a bearing is causing the noise, and if so which one. Keep in mind that bearing noises are not typically intermittent. If a particular vehicle road test maneuver results in noise only part of the time, it is not likely a faulty bearing.
Damaged bearing seals and the resulting excessive grease loss may also require bearing replacement. Moderate grease seepage from the bearing is considered normal and should not require replacement of the wheel bearing. To diagnose the hub, measure hub runout. Refer to ROTOR, BRAKE, DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING .