The wheel bearing is an essential component of your vehicle’s suspension system. It helps keep the wheel attached to the car and provides smooth operation. As such, it is important to pay attention to any noises that the wheel bearing may be making, as this could be a sign of wear and tear. In this article, we will explore what causes wheel bearing noise and how long a wheel bearing will last after it starts making noise.
What Causes Wheel Bearing Noise?
Wheel bearing noise is usually caused by wear and tear of the bearing itself. As the bearing ages, it can start to wear down and become loose, resulting in an increased amount of noise when the wheel is in motion. In some cases, the noise may be caused by a lack of lubrication, which can lead to increased friction between the bearing and the wheel. If a wheel bearing is not properly lubricated, it can start to make noise, which can be an indication of a serious problem.
How Long Will a Wheel Bearing Last?
The longevity of a wheel bearing depends on a variety of factors, such as the quality of the bearing, the amount of use it gets, and the type of vehicle it is installed in. Generally speaking, a wheel bearing should last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles. That being said, it is important to keep an eye on the wheel bearing and have it inspected regularly to ensure it is still in good condition.
In conclusion, wheel bearing noise can be an indication of a serious problem. It is important to pay attention to any noises that the wheel bearing may be making and have it inspected regularly to ensure it is still in good condition. With proper maintenance and care, a wheel bearing can last for many miles before needing to be replaced.
According to automotive experts, a wheel bearing is supposed to last about 80,000 to 100,000 miles ń roughly the equivalent of three to five years of use. But after a bearing starts to make noise, its lifespan quickly begins to decrease.
Although the noise of a bearing won’t necessarily tell you when it needs replacing, it’s a good indication there’s something wrong. Generally, it’s best to take your vehicle to an auto shop if you hear an abnormal sound coming from the wheel bearing, as that usually means it’s deteriorating and needs to be replaced as soon as possible.
A bearing needs to be replaced if it has begun to crack, or if it has been damaged by a collision or extreme heat or cold. However, if the bearing needs to be replaced due to wear and tear, the replacement needs to happen quickly in order to avoid any additional wear and tear.
In some cases, a technician may be able to determine the cause of the noise and determine an approximate lifespan for the bearing. For example, if excessive heat has caused the bearing to wear out more quickly, there may be a unique sound coming from it. The condition of the bearing can also affect its lifespan; a very low mileage bearing may last several more years than one with a high mileage.
Ultimately, the amount of time a wheel bearing will last after it starts to make noise is unpredictable and varies based on the conditions. It’s therefore important to have your vehicle checked by an automotive expert if you hear any abnormal sounds, so that you can get the bearings replaced before they cause any further damage to the car.
