Subaru Forester Rear Wheel Bearing Replacement: A Comprehensive Guide
Subaru Forester Rear Wheel Bearing Replacement: A Comprehensive Guide
If youre experiencing unusual noises or vibrations coming from your Subaru Foresters rear wheels, it could be a sign of a worn-out rear wheel bearing. Replacing a rear wheel bearing can be a complex task, but its essential to ensure your vehicles safety and performance. Heres a detailed guide on how to replace a rear wheel bearing on a Subaru Forester:
Tools and Materials Youll Need
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:
* Jack and jack stands
* Lug wrench
* Socket wrench set with extensions
* Pry bar
* Hammer
* New rear wheel bearing
Safety Precautions
* Park your Forester on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
* Allow the vehicle to cool down if it has been recently driven.
* Wear safety glasses and gloves when working with tools.
Step 1: Jack Up and Remove the Wheel
* Use a jack to lift the rear of your Forester and support it with jack stands.
* Remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheel.
Step 2: Remove the Brake Caliper and Rotor
* Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts attaching the brake caliper to the wheel hub.
* Lift the brake caliper off the rotor and hang it securely out of the way.
* Remove the rotor from the hub.
Step 3: Remove the Axle Nut
* Use a large socket wrench to loosen the axle nut in the center of the wheel hub.
* Dont remove the nut completely at this stage.
Step 4: Disconnect the Sway Bar Link
* Locate the sway bar link attached to the wheel hub.
* Use a pry bar or socket wrench to disconnect the sway bar link from the hub.
Step 5: Remove the Hub Assembly
* Use a hammer to tap lightly on the sides of the hub assembly to loosen it.
* Carefully pull the hub assembly straight out of the spindle.
Step 6: Press Out the Old Bearing
* Place the hub assembly in a vice or press.
* Use a large socket or bearing removal tool to press out the old bearing from the hub.
Step 7: Press In the New Bearing
* Place the new bearing into the hub using a press or socket.
* Ensure the bearing is fully seated and flush with the hub.
Step 8: Reassemble the Hub Assembly
* Slide the hub assembly back into the spindle.
* Tighten the axle nut to the specified torque.
Step 9: Reconnect the Sway Bar Link
* Reattach the sway bar link to the wheel hub.
Step 10: Reinstall the Brake Caliper and Rotor
* Place the rotor back on the hub.
* Reinstall the brake caliper and tighten the bolts.
Step 11: Install the Wheel and Lower the Vehicle
* Mount the rear wheel onto the hub.
* Tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.
* Lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
Tips and Troubleshooting
* If you encounter difficulty removing the hub assembly, apply penetrating oil and let it soak for a few minutes before tapping with a hammer.
* If the new bearing does not fit snugly into the hub, ensure that the bearing is the correct size and that it is fully seated.
* Tighten all bolts and nuts to the specified torque to prevent them from loosening over time.
Cost of Replacement
The cost of replacing a rear wheel bearing on a Subaru Forester can vary depending on the year of the vehicle, labor rates in your area, and whether you choose to replace the bearing yourself or have it done by a mechanic. Generally, you can expect to pay between $250 and $500 for the parts and labor.
When to Replace a Rear Wheel Bearing
* Unusual noises coming from the rear wheels, such as grinding, humming, or growling
* Vibrations in the steering wheel or floorboard
* Uneven tire wear or cupping on the inside edge of the tire
Conclusion
Replacing a rear wheel bearing on a Subaru Forester is a task that requires some mechanical skills and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can tackle this repair confidently. Remember, maintaining your vehicles wheel bearings is crucial for its safety and performance, and its essential to seek professional help if youre not comfortable performing this task yourself.