All About Wheel Bearings + Faqs

All About Wheel Bearings + FAQs

Introduction to Wheel Bearings:

Wheel bearings are essential components found in every vehicle that play a crucial role in ensuring smooth and efficient wheel rotation. These bearings follow a simple principle of physics – rolling reduces friction compared to sliding, making it easier for objects to move. In the case of vehicles, wheel bearings enable the wheels to rotate smoothly without excessive friction, thereby facilitating efficient and fuel-saving movement.

Understanding Wheel Bearings:

Wheel bearings consist of two surfaces – an inner circle surface and an outer one, with metal balls placed between them. These metal balls bear the weight of the vehicle and allow it to spin smoothly. These bearings are located within the wheel hub, which connects the wheel to the axle. Every wheel on a vehicle has its own set of wheel bearings. In a car, there are typically four wheel bearings, while a bike has two.

Types of Bearings:

The two most common types of wheel bearings are ball bearings and roller bearings. Roller bearings use small cylinders (rollers) placed within a tapered circular housing. While this type of bearing is not sealed, making it easy for servicing, it carries the risk of getting locked up due to debris entering. On the other hand, ball bearings utilize miniature balls with small contact points for easy rolling. Ball bearings are generally sealed, providing effective contamination protection but cannot be serviced.

Working Principle of Wheel Bearings:

Wheel bearings operate on the concept of reducing friction during motion. As the small balls within the bearings roll between the two surfaces, the rolling motion results in less friction, requiring less energy to move the vehicle. This helps save fuel and improves overall vehicle efficiency.

Replacement Cost of Wheel Bearings:

Wheel bearings are not overly expensive to replace. The cost of each bearing varies depending on the type and brand. For bikes, a bearing can cost around 150rs, whereas for cars, the cost can go up to several thousands of rupees. Regardless of the cost, replacing worn-out wheel bearings is necessary to maintain a smooth and enjoyable riding experience.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: When do wheel bearings have to be replaced?

Wheel bearings typically have an average lifespan of 85k to 100k miles or 136k to 160k kilometers. However, they may need replacement before reaching this distance if any noise or issues related to them arise.

Q2: Why do wheel bearings need to be replaced?

Wheel bearings, like all moving parts, undergo wear and tear over time due to constant movement. Replacing them becomes essential to maintain optimal performance.

Q3: Where to buy wheel bearings?

Wheel bearings can be purchased from your vehicle's authorized service center, local workshops, and various online sites.

Q4: How many wheel bearings does a car have?

A car has four wheel bearings, one for each wheel. In addition to these, there are other types of bearings in a car, such as engine bearings.

Q5: Are wheel bearings covered under warranty?

Generally, parts subject to wear and tear, including wheel bearings, are not covered under warranty. However, some brands may provide service charge coverage for bearing replacements under warranty.

Q6: Which grease is best for wheel bearings?

There are different types of greases available for wheel bearings, such as ion-based grease and moly EP grease. EP greases offer good moisture and temperature tolerance, making them more suitable for wheel bearings. Popular grease brands in India include Bosch and Waxpol. Proper greasing of wheel bearings is crucial for their smooth functioning and to prevent growling noises during acceleration.

Q7: What happens when wheel bearings are worn out?

When wheel bearings wear out, several issues can occur, including:

- Noise: A humming, rumbling, or growling noise that increases with acceleration or when the vehicle turns.

- Vibrations: Vibrations on the steering wheel or looseness and excessive play in the steering.

- ABS malfunctioning: Worn-out bearings can affect ABS sensors integrated within them, leading to ABS malfunctioning.

Q8: Where are Timken bearings made?

The Timken Company is a well-known global bearing manufacturer with plants in various countries. In India, Timken manufactures bearings in their Jamshedpur and Bharuch plants.

Q9: Are wheel bearings and hub bearings the same?

No, wheel bearings and hub bearings are not the same. The primary difference lies in their assembly. Wheel bearings can be dismantled for re-lubrication and reassembly, whereas hub bearings come as a complete unit and must be replaced entirely if any problem arises.

Q10: How much does a Dodge Journey wheel bearing cost?

The wheel bearings of a Dodge Journey, being a mid-size SUV, can be relatively expensive, costing around rs 20k.

Q11: How often should wheel bearings be greased?

It is recommended to grease the wheel bearings of a car every 15-16 thousand kilometers or once per season.

Q12: Are wheel bearings part of the suspension system?

Yes, wheel bearings are an integral part of a vehicle's suspension and steering system. They are responsible for keeping the wheels attached to the vehicle and are included in the one-piece hub assembly, along with the wheel hub, ABS sensors, and mounting flange.

Q13: Where are Moog bearings made?

Moog is another well-known brand for bearings. Moog manufactures its products, including bearings, in Korea.

Q14: Can wheel bearings go bad from sitting?

Yes, wheel bearings can develop issues if a vehicle is not properly cared for even when not in use. Rust may develop on wheel bearings if they are not cleaned and greased regularly. Thus, it is essential to grease and clean the wheel bearings from time to time, even if the vehicle is not being used frequently.

Q15: Can wheel bearings be repaired?

Wheel bearings can be repaired to some extent, particularly if the issue is related to inadequate greasing. However, if the bearing is severely worn out, it cannot be repaired and must be replaced.

Q16: Where to get wheel bearings replaced?

Wheel bearing replacement can be a complex task, so it is best to get it done by a professional service center. Service centers have the necessary tools and expertise to disassemble and replace wheel bearings effectively.

Q17: Will wheel bearings cause shaking?

Yes, a worn-out or damaged wheel bearing can cause shaking and vibrations. Since wheel bearings play a vital role in a vehicle's suspension and steering, any issues with them can result in instability while driving.

Q18: Why repack wheel bearings?

Repacking wheel bearings involves disassembling them to apply fresh grease. This process is necessary for the proper functioning of the bearings and to prevent noises and rough operation.

Q19: When should wheel bearings be repacked?

It is advisable to request wheel bearing repacking during every regular vehicle service to ensure they are adequately maintained.

Q20: Can wheel bearings squeak?

Yes, wheel bearings can produce squeaking noises if they are not greased or when they are worn out, leading to rough rolling and poor performance.

Q21: How are wheel bearings made?

Wheel bearings are made of steel to withstand the stress and high temperatures generated during motion. They are manufactured in specialized plants, where metal balls are inserted between the inner and outer surfaces to enable smooth rolling.

Q22: Can wheel bearings lock up?

Yes, wheel bearings can lock up if debris or foreign particles enter and cause interference. This can be hazardous, as it may lead to wheel lock-up while driving. To prevent this, modern wheel bearings are sealed to keep out debris and contaminants.

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All About Wheel Bearings + Faqs