Cost to Replace a Wheel Bearing on a Ford Explorer
The cost to replace a wheel bearing on a Ford Explorer can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the specific model year of the vehicle, and whether the wheel hub and bearing can be replaced as a unit or if they need to be pressed into the knuckle.
If the wheel hub and bearing can be replaced as a unit, it may be possible for an intermediate DIYer with experience removing brake or suspension parts to do the replacement themselves. However, if the components are difficult to disassemble and require a hydraulic press for reassembly, it is generally recommended to have a professional technician perform the replacement.
According to RepairPal, the average cost for a wheel bearing replacement on a Ford Explorer is estimated to be between $217 and $279. This cost includes both labor and parts. It’s important to note that this is just an average estimate and the actual cost may vary depending on the factors mentioned earlier.
Signs of a Failing Wheel Bearing
It’s also important to be aware of the signs of a failing wheel bearing. Some common symptoms include a rumbling noise while turning or driving at speeds greater than 15 miles per hour, excessive play in the wheel, and noisy tires that sound similar to a failing wheel bearing.
If you suspect that your wheel bearing is failing, it’s recommended to have it diagnosed by a technician. They will typically take the vehicle for a test drive to verify the source of the noise and determine which wheel bearing is causing the issue. Once a conclusive diagnosis is made, it is important to replace the bearing promptly to avoid any potential safety risks.
In conclusion, the cost to replace a wheel bearing on a Ford Explorer can vary, but the average estimate is between $217 and $279. It is generally recommended to have a professional technician perform the replacement, especially if the components are difficult to disassemble and require a hydraulic press for reassembly. If you suspect a failing wheel bearing, it’s important to have it diagnosed and replaced promptly to ensure the safety and performance of your vehicle.
I hope this information helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Contents
- How long will a wheel bearing last once it starts making noise?
- Is fixing a wheel bearing a big job?
- What noise does a wheel bearing make?
- What is one of the first signs of bearing failure?
- What are all the symptoms of a bad wheel bearing?
- Can I still drive with a bad wheel bearing?
- How much should a wheel bearing job cost?
- Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing wheel bearings?
- Is it okay to replace one wheel bearing at a time?
- What is the life expectancy of a wheel bearing?
How long will a wheel bearing last once it starts making noise?
Once you notice any sign indicating a bad wheel bearing, avoid exceeding 500 miles with that issue. A failing wheel bearing will increase your difficulty in driving. But with a high-quality wheel bearing, you can drive for another 1000 miles as per the estimate.
Is fixing a wheel bearing a big job?
These are relatively easy to replace, I have done these. But, if you have a front wheel drive car with a bad front bearing, or if a bearing in the rear axle on a rear wheel drive car goes bad, it can be ( and usually is) a BIG JOB, with lots of labor involved.
What noise does a wheel bearing make?
The bearings rub on the race and create a humming, grinding, or squealing noise, so if it gets louder as you accelerate, it’s probably your wheel bearings. Wheels are wobbling: If you notice that your wheels are wobbling excessively, it could be your bearings.
What is one of the first signs of bearing failure?
What are the first signs of bearing failure? The first sign of bearing failure is excessive vibration.
What are all the symptoms of a bad wheel bearing?
Watch out and listen for these signs:
- Humming Noise. The most easily identifiable and common symptom of bad wheel bearings is audible.
- Squealing, Growling.
- Clicking Sound.
- Wheel Wobble.
- ABS Failure.
- Uneven Tire Wear.
- Vehicle Pulls to One Side.
- Steering Wheel Vibration.
Can I still drive with a bad wheel bearing?
Can I drive with a bad wheel bearing? No, it can be very dangerous. The bearings can cause a severe problem if they malfunction. As we said before, extreme heat can be caused by friction, and this can cause a sudden seize of the bearing, causing the wheel to get blocked at whatever speed we are driving at that moment.
How much should a wheel bearing job cost?
The cost to replace one front-wheel hub assembly varies widely. Some variables include the make and model, the garage’s labor rate and the cost for parts. The national average is about $350 to fix the wheel bearings at one wheel. As you might imagine, however, luxury brands cost more.
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing wheel bearings?
Replacing a wheel bearing should not affect the vehicle’s alignment. A competent mechanic will do a quick assessment of the suspension while swapping the nearing to identify any issues that may affect the alignment.
Is it okay to replace one wheel bearing at a time?
If your budget allows, it might be prudent to change both components simultaneously to minimize future repair costs. However, if you are facing budget constraints, replacing only the failed part is an option, provided the other side is in good condition.
What is the life expectancy of a wheel bearing?
As mentioned previously, the average life of wheel bearings is approximately 85,000-100,000 miles. However, that lifespan can be shortened if you hit a curb, speed bump, or pothole at high speeds. Contamination from water, mud, road salt, or sand can also shorten the life of your wheel bearings.