Wheel bearing faulty – Symptoms, causes, 
repair and prevention

Defective wheel bearing: How to recognize the symptoms and what you can do

The wheel bearings are one of the inconspicuous heroes of your vehicle. They allow your wheels to rotate freely and contribute to the stability and safety of your car. However, failure can cause serious problems. In this blog post, we will look at the symptoms, causes, repair options and preventive measures for a defective wheel bearing.

Symptoms of a faulty wheel bearing

The symptoms of a defective wheel bearing can be diverse and should not be ignored. Here are some of the most common signs to look out for:

1. Grinding or grinding noises: A clear sign of a faulty wheel bearing is a grinding or grinding noise, especially when cornering. This noise often occurs because the wheel bearing no longer lubricates properly and functions smoothly.
2. Vibrations in the steering wheel: If you feel vibrations in the steering wheel, especially when driving on the highway, this may indicate a defective wheel bearing.
3. Unstable handling: A faulty wheel bearing can cause your car to become unstable, especially in corners. You may feel like you are losing control of the vehicle.
4. Excessive tire wear: Uneven tire wear may indicate problems with the wheel bearings. If the wheels are not correctly aligned, this can lead to premature wear.

Causes of faulty wheel bearings

The main cause of faulty wheel bearings is normal wear over time, but other factors can cause problems:

1. Poor road conditions: Driving on uneven or pothole-strewn roads can shorten the life of the wheel bearings.
2. Lack of maintenance: Regular maintenance, including lubrication, is crucial to extend the life of the wheel bearings Neglected maintenance can lead to premature failure.
3. Excessive load: Carrying heavy loads or regularly pulling trailers can overload the wheel bearings and cause them to wear out more quickly.

🚗 Expert knowledge

Did you know that a wheel bearing defect can occur more quickly if you frequently drive in extreme conditions such as heavy rain or through deep puddles? Water can penetrate the bearing, impair lubrication and significantly accelerate wear.

How can you avoid problems with the wheel bearings in the future?

The good news is that there are a few steps you can take to avoid bearing problems:

1. Regular maintenance: Make sure your wheel bearings are serviced regularly as recommended in your vehicle manual. This can slow down wear and extend the life of the bearings.
2. Gentle driving: Try to drive carefully over potholes and uneven roads. Avoid driving over curbs or falling into potholes.
3. Limit weight: When transporting heavy loads, try to minimize the load and use a larger vehicle if necessary.

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FAQ – Frequently asked questions about wheel bearing defects

❓ What is a wheel bearing?
A wheel bearing is an essential component that ensures that the wheels of your car can rotate smoothly. It reduces the friction between the wheel hub and the rotating components and ensures a smooth ride.

❓ How do I notice that my wheel bearing is defective?
A defective wheel bearing is often noticeable through grinding, crunching or humming noises, especially when cornering. There may also be vibrations in the steering wheel and the vehicle's handling may become unstable.

❓ Is it dangerous to continue driving with a broken wheel bearing?
Yes, it is dangerous. If your wheel bearings are broken and you ignore this defect, it can lead to serious problems, such as a locked wheel or even an accident. If you notice any signs of a defect, you should have your vehicle checked immediately at a workshop.

❓ How much does it cost to have a broken wheel bearing repaired?
The cost of repairing a defective wheel bearing can vary depending on the vehicle model and workshop. On average, the cost is between €100 and €500 per wheel bearing, including labor.

❓ How long can I continue driving with a defective wheel bearing?
We strongly advise against continuing to drive with a defective wheel bearing. A defective wheel bearing can lock or break at any time, increasing the risk of a serious accident. Have it repaired as soon as possible.

❓ Can a defective wheel bearing also damage the tires?
Yes, if your wheel bearings are broken, it can lead to uneven tire wear as the wheel no longer runs correctly. This shortens the service life of the tires and they have to be replaced sooner.

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Repair and costs

If you notice any of the above symptoms or suspect that your wheel bearings are defective, it is important to act immediately. A faulty wheel bearing can lead to serious safety problems.

The cost of repairing a wheel bearing can vary depending on the vehicle model and the amount of work involved. On average, you can expect costs of 100€ to 500€ per wheel bearing if you have it carried out by a workshop.

Self-repair is possible but requires advanced mechanical knowledge and special tools. If you choose self-repair, you should make sure you have the necessary expertise to do the job properly.

What to do if the repair is too expensive?

If your wheel bearing is defective and the repair is too expensive or your vehicle is already older, selling it can be a sensible alternative. CashforCars.de offers you an uncomplicated way to sell your car quickly and easily, regardless of its condition.

• Contact us directly using our online form or by phone on +49 (211) 7306 1701.
• Or send us a message via WhatsApp.

Convenient collection: We will collect your vehicle directly from you, regardless of whether it is roadworthy or not.

Immediate payment: You will receive your money immediately upon collection via real-time bank transfer – fast, secure and uncomplicated.

Sell your car stress-free now!

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Conclusion

Wheel bearings are a crucial part of your vehicle that is often overlooked. However, a defective wheel bearing can lead to dangerous situations. Pay attention to the symptoms, perform regular maintenance and avoid excessive loads to extend the life of your wheel bearings and be safe on the road. If you notice any problems, do not hesitate to carry out the necessary repairs to ensure your safety. If you’re also interested in ways to sell your broken car to minimize the cost of repairs, there are services like CashforCars.de that can help you. These services can be an option if you are looking for an uncomplicated solution.