How to Change Back Wheel Bearings
The back wheel bearings on your vehicle help take the stress and load off the axles and CV joints. The bearings are actual ball bearings that run around the inside of the bearing and hub assembly. Most vehicles use a sealed bearing assembly for the back wheel bearings because of its simple design and long life. Still, this type of bearing will fail eventually, and when it does, you will hear a faint humming or whirling sound while driving.
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Instructions
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1
Loosen the rear lug nuts with a tire wrench. Turn the lugs 45 degrees counterclockwise.
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2
Lift the vehicle onto jack stands. Raise the rear of the vehicle using the floor jack. Lift up on the rear crossmember or rear jack point behind the trunk. Then, place jack stands underneath the rear pinch welds and lower the vehicle onto the stands.
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3
Finish removing the lug nuts and slide the wheel up off the wheel hub.
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4
Remove the outer drum by hitting it with a hammer until it is loose enough for you to pull off with your hands.
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5
Remove the center hub retaining nut with an impact wrench. Pull the nut off along with the thrust washer behind it.
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6
Slide the wheel bearing assembly off the spindle and install the new bearing assembly. Installation is the reverse of removal.
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Tips & Warnings
For specific information about changing the back wheel bearings on your vehicle, consult the vehicle's manual (see Resources).
