Faulty Wheel Bearing

Symptoms, Causes and Repair Costs

A faulty wheel bearing usually becomes noticeable through grinding or scraping noises and may initially seem harmless over a short period. However, over time, a defective wheel bearing can cause more serious damage than you might expect.

In this article, we explain what a wheel bearing actually is, where it is located in the vehicle, which symptoms indicate a defect, and most importantly, what causes can lead to a damaged wheel bearing. You will also learn what costs to expect when replacing it in a workshop and whether you can carry out the replacement yourself.

Contents
  1. What is a wheel bearing and what is its purpose?
  2. Symptoms of a faulty wheel bearing
  3. Causes of a faulty Wheel Bearing
  4. Costs for Wheel Bearing Replacement
  5. Is it possible to replace a faulty Wheel Bearing yourself?
  6. Conclusion: How serious is a faulty wheel bearing?
  7. More Articles

What is a wheel bearing and what is its purpose?

The wheel bearing is a key component of the chassis that forms the connection between the wheel and the axle. It enables the smooth rotation of the wheels while supporting the full weight of the vehicle at the respective axle. The primary function of the wheel bearing is to absorb the forces acting on it without interference.

New wheel bearing for Passat B7
A new wheel bearing including wheel hub for a Passat B7

Modern vehicles often use ball bearings or tapered roller bearings, which consist of rolling elements, a cage, as well as inner and outer rings. Some wheel bearings are also equipped with magnetic impulse generators that provide signals for systems like ABS and ESP. These special wheel bearings replace the use of ABS sensors.

Symptoms of a faulty wheel bearing

A faulty wheel bearing becomes noticeable through various signs:

Unusual noises: An initial sign is often a faint humming or buzzing sound, which at first only occurs during cornering. Over time, these noises become louder and eventually can be heard even when driving straight. The humming then transitions into a grinding or scraping noise.
Vibrations: In addition to grinding noises, a faulty wheel bearing can cause vibrations that transfer to the steering wheel or the entire vehicle.
Increased play: Noticeable play in the wheel, detected by manually moving the raised wheel, can indicate a worn wheel bearing. Grasp the wheel as shown in the image below and try to move it. If you hear a clicking sound or notice any play, the wheel bearing is definitely faulty.
Uneven tire wear: A damaged wheel bearing can cause uneven tire wear. However, this symptom alone can also have other causes.
Increased temperature: After a longer drive, a damaged wheel bearing may be noticeable due to increased heat generation. However, a higher temperature can also indicate seized brake calipers.
Shake test of the wheel bearing,
Detect increased play in the wheel bearing with this test

Causes of a faulty Wheel Bearing

Various factors can lead to a wheel bearing defect:

Wear and tear: Wheel bearings are subjected to high loads and wear out over time, especially at mileages over 100,000 kilometers.
Driving behavior: Frequently driving over potholes, curbs, or a sporty driving style in corners can shorten the lifespan of wheel bearings.
Ingress of dirt and moisture: Damaged seals allow water and dirt to enter, which impairs lubrication and leads to corrosion.
Improper installation: Errors during assembly, such as insufficient lubrication or incorrect tightening torque, can negatively affect the lifespan of the wheel bearing.
Faulty wheel bearing: Mainly due to sporty driving style,
Driving behavior: A sportier driving style accelerates wheel bearing wear

Costs for Wheel Bearing Replacement

The costs of replacing a faulty wheel bearing vary depending on the vehicle, workshop, and especially the location. However, roughly the following figures can be given:

Material costs: Individual wheel bearings cost between 30 and 80 euros. Complete sets including the wheel hub range from 50 to 150 euros for mid-range cars.
Labor costs: The time required to replace a wheel bearing is approximately 60 minutes. At an hourly rate of 100 euros, labor costs amount to around 100 euros.
Total costs: Roughly estimated, you should expect costs between 150 and 350 euros per wheel bearing. With increased effort, for example due to seized bolts, labor costs can naturally rise
Faulty wheel bearing: Too high costs for a workshop repair,
Labor costs can quickly increase with seized bolts

INFO BOX:

As an example: A bearing including wheel hub for the Passat B7 from the 2014 model year can be purchased for as little as 49 euros. Depending on the manufacturer, costs can rise up to 95 euros. Anything above that we consider overpriced, without significant “quality increase.”

Is it possible to replace a faulty Wheel Bearing yourself?

Yes, replacing the wheel bearing is one of the repairs that can be carried out at home without major issues. As long as no bolts are seized or too rusted, the replacement is quite straightforward.

The repair is especially easy if you have ordered a complete bearing including wheel hub, which definitely pays off. In this case, you don’t need special tools like a hydraulic press, but simply replace the entire wheel bearing with the hub.

Replace faulty wheel bearing including wheel hub yourself,
Is it possible to replace a faulty wheel bearing yourself in the garage?

Even without a lift, it works with a jack and stands. Want to know exactly how? In the article: “How to Replace Wheel Bearings Yourself – Guide for VW Passat B7”, we show you step by step how to replace the front wheel bearing on a 2014 Passat B7 yourself!

Please note that improper installation can lead to further damage. If you are unsure and symptoms occur, have the replacement performed at a professional workshop.

Conclusion: How serious is a faulty wheel bearing?

A faulty wheel bearing poses a significant safety risk over time. The wheel itself experiences increased resistance due to a damaged wheel bearing, which in turn leads to high temperatures. This heat can cause the grease in the wheel bearing to burn off, completely eliminating its lubricating ability. This can then lead to severe loss of vehicle control or even to the wheel locking up.

In very rare cases, the entire wheel can be destroyed and detached from the suspension, or even catch fire. However, these cases occur very rarely.

Comparison: Faulty wheel bearing and new wheel bearing
Comparison: New and old wheel bearing including wheel hub from a VW Passat B7

In summary, if you notice symptoms indicating a faulty wheel bearing, don’t hesitate and plan the repair. While you have no immediate pressure, as the wheel bearing can endure quite a lot, you shouldn’t delay the repair for too long.

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