What Should Wheel Bearing Seals Be Checked For?

What Should Wheel Bearing Seals Be Checked For?

Wheel bearing seals are vital components of your vehicles suspension system. They help keep the bearings lubricated and prevent contaminants from entering the bearing assembly. If a wheel bearing seal fails, it can lead to premature bearing failure and other costly repairs.

Inspect the Seal Regularly

The best way to prevent wheel bearing seal failure is to inspect the seal regularly. You should check the seal for any signs of damage, such as:

• Cracks
• Tears
• Leaks

If you find any of these signs, the seal should be replaced immediately.

Listen for Noises

Another way to check for wheel bearing seal failure is to listen for noises. If you hear a growling or whining noise when you drive, it could be a sign that the wheel bearing seal is failing.

Feel for Heat

You can also check for heat by touching the wheel bearing. If the bearing is hot to the touch, it could be a sign that the seal is failing.

Check the Grease

The grease inside the wheel bearing should be clean and free of contaminants. If the grease is contaminated with dirt or water, it could be a sign that the seal is failing.

Other Signs of Failure

In addition to the above, there are other signs that may indicate a failing wheel bearing seal, including:

• Vibrations in the steering wheel
• Difficulty turning
• Uneven tire wear

What Causes Wheel Bearing Seal Failure?

There are several factors that can cause wheel bearing seal failure, including:

• Damage to the seal during installation
• Contaminants entering the bearing assembly
• Excessive heat
• Improper lubrication

How to Replace a Wheel Bearing Seal

If your wheel bearing seal fails, you will need to replace it as soon as possible. Replacing a wheel bearing seal is a relatively simple repair that can be done in a few hours.

Here are the steps on how to replace a wheel bearing seal:

Cost of Replacing a Wheel Bearing Seal

The cost of replacing a wheel bearing seal will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $300 for the parts and labor.

How to Prevent Wheel Bearing Seal Failure

There are several things you can do to prevent wheel bearing seal failure, including:

• Inspect the seals regularly
• Listen for noises
• Feel for heat
• Check the grease
• Avoid driving in harsh conditions

Conclusion

Wheel bearing seals are an important part of your vehicles suspension system. By following the tips in this article, you can help prevent wheel bearing seal failure and keep your vehicle running smoothly.

To summarize, the key points of what should wheel bearing seals be checked for are:

• Cracks
• Tears
• Leaks
• Noises
• Heat

By checking for these signs of failure, you can help prevent costly repairs and keep your vehicle running safely.