A bad wheel bearing usually makes a humming, growling or rumbling noise that rises with road speed and changes when you turn. Turning shifts weight onto the bearings on the outside of the turn, so a noise that gets louder when turning left often points to a right-side bearing, and the reverse. Worn or cupped tires can make a similar noise, so check the tires before replacing a bearing.
Symptoms of a bad wheel bearing
- Hum or growl that increases with speed, not engine rpm
- Noise that changes when turning or changing lanes
- Play in the wheel when rocked at the top and bottom
- Vibration in the steering wheel or floor; see car vibrates at high speed
- An ABS light, because many hubs carry the wheel speed sensor or its tone ring; see ABS light and wheel speed sensor
- Uneven brake pad wear or a pulsing pedal from a wobbling hub
Wheel bearing noise test
- Drive at a steady speed where the noise is clear, then gently swerve left and right. If the noise grows in one direction, suspect the bearing on the opposite side.
- With the wheel off the ground, grip it at the top and bottom and rock it; play here points to a bearing or ball joint.
- Spin the wheel by hand and feel the spring or strut for roughness, and listen for a grinding sound.
- Inspect the tires for cupping or uneven wear, which can make a similar noise.
Bearing noise vs other noises
| Noise | More likely |
|---|---|
| Rises with road speed, changes when turning | Wheel bearing |
| Rises with road speed, the same when turning, changes with the road surface | Tires |
| Rises with engine rpm | Engine or accessories; see whining noise when accelerating |
| Clicks when turning | Outer CV joint |
| Grinding only when braking | Brakes; see grinding noise when braking |
Is it safe to drive?
A bearing that only hums can usually be driven a short distance to a repair, but bearings get worse, generate heat and, in extreme cases, can fail and let the wheel wobble or seize. Replace it soon, and immediately if there is play, grinding or heat.
What wears out bearings
Potholes and curb strikes, water getting past worn seals, and age all shorten bearing life. Larger wheels, lower-profile tires and lift kits add leverage on the hub, so modified trucks often wear bearings sooner. Over-tightening or under-tightening an axle nut during other repairs can also damage a bearing, which is why the specified torque matters.
Replacement
Many modern vehicles use bolt-on hub assemblies, while others have press-in bearings that need a press. Replace bearings one at a time as they fail. Related: clunking noise over bumps and transmission noise.
More guides: clicking noise when turning · differential noise.
Shipping is a flat $80.00 per order to US addresses, with 15-day free returns. Questions? Ask a parts specialist.