How to Check a Wheel Bearing

Suspect a wheel bearing? A few quick checks in the driveway can confirm it before you replace anything. Here is how to check a wheel bearing.

The rock test

Safely raise the wheel off the ground. Grab the tire at 12 and 6 o'clock and rock it in and out - any noticeable play or clunk points to a worn bearing (or a suspension joint); see signs of a bad hub bearing. A good bearing has no perceptible play.

The spin test

Spin the raised wheel by hand and listen and feel. A bad bearing feels rough, notchy, or gritty and may growl; a good one spins smooth and quiet. Compare side to side to judge.

The drive test

On the road, a bad bearing hums or roars and often changes when you turn; see bearing vs tire noise. A loose bearing can also trip the ABS light since the sensor rides in the hub; see how ABS works.

Confirm the corner

Use the turn direction and side-to-side comparison to pin down which bearing. Replace it and torque to spec; see hub torque. Keep the brakes fresh with quality pads and hardware.