2009 Subaru Forester Wheel Bearing Replacement: A Comprehensive Guide

Replacing a wheel bearing on a 2009 Subaru Forester is a common repair that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and knowledge. However, if you are not comfortable working on your own car, it is best to take it to a mechanic.

Symptoms of a Bad Wheel Bearing

There are several symptoms that can indicate a bad wheel bearing, including:

A grinding or humming noise that gets louder when you turn the car
A vibration in the steering wheel or floorboard
Uneven tire wear
A clunking noise when you hit a bump

Tools and Materials Youll Need

To replace a wheel bearing on a 2009 Subaru Forester, you will need the following tools and materials:

Jack and jack stands
Lug wrench
Socket wrench set
Hammer
Punch
New wheel bearing

Safety First

Before you begin working on your car, it is important to take safety precautions. This includes wearing safety glasses and gloves, and working in a well-ventilated area.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to replace a wheel bearing on a 2009 Subaru Forester:

1. Loosen the lug nuts

Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that has the bad bearing. Do not remove the lug nuts completely.

2. Jack up the car

Use a jack to raise the car and place jack stands under the car for support.

3. Remove the wheel

Remove the lug nuts completely and then remove the wheel.

4. Remove the brake caliper

Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts that hold the brake caliper in place. Then, carefully lift the brake caliper off of the rotor.

5. Remove the brake rotor

Use a hammer and punch to remove the brake rotor from the wheel bearing hub.

6. Remove the wheel bearing

Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts that hold the wheel bearing in place. Then, use a hammer and punch to remove the wheel bearing from the hub.

7. Install the new wheel bearing

Place the new wheel bearing into the hub and then use a hammer to tap it into place.

8. Install the brake rotor

Place the brake rotor onto the wheel bearing hub and then use a hammer to tap it into place.

9. Install the brake caliper

Carefully place the brake caliper over the rotor and then use a socket wrench to tighten the bolts that hold it in place.

10. Install the wheel

Place the wheel onto the hub and then tighten the lug nuts by hand.

11. Lower the car

Lower the car by removing the jack stands and then use a lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts the rest of the way.

Tips

If you are not comfortable working on your own car, it is best to take it to a mechanic.
Be sure to use the correct torque when tightening the lug nuts.
Replace the wheel bearing on both sides of the axle at the same time.

Conclusion

Replacing a wheel bearing is a relatively simple repair that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and knowledge. By following the step-by-step instructions above, you can save yourself the cost of a mechanic.

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