Wheel Bearing Squeak: An Annoying and Dangerous Problem

If you're hearing a wheel bearing squeak, it's important to take action quickly. This noise is a sign that your wheel bearings are failing, and if left unchecked, it can lead to serious problems – including a loss of control over your vehicle.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), wheel bearing failures cause an estimated 2,500 crashes each year, resulting in over 100 deaths.

Benefit	How To
Prevent accidents	Get your wheel bearings checked and replaced as soon as possible.
Save money	Wheel bearing replacement is much less expensive than repairing the damage caused by a wheel bearing failure.
Protect your vehicle	Wheel bearing failures can damage other parts of your vehicle, such as your brakes and suspension.

How to Tell if Your Wheel Bearings Are Squeaking

The most common sign of a wheel bearing squeak is a high-pitched squealing noise that comes from one or more of your wheels. The noise may be worse when you're turning or accelerating.

Other signs of a wheel bearing squeak include:

A grinding or growling noise

A loose or wobbly wheel

Vibration in the steering wheel

Uneven tire wear

What to Do if Your Wheel Bearings Are Squeaking

If you're hearing a wheel bearing squeak, it's important to take action quickly. The first step is to have your wheel bearings checked by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will be able to determine if your wheel bearings are failing and recommend the best course of action.

In most cases, wheel bearings that are squeaking will need to be replaced. This is a relatively simple and inexpensive procedure that can be performed by a qualified mechanic.

Benefit	How To
Avoid accidents	Get your wheel bearings checked and replaced as soon as possible.
Save money	Wheel bearing replacement is much less expensive than repairing the damage caused by a wheel bearing failure.
Protect your vehicle	Wheel bearing failures can damage other parts of your vehicle, such as your brakes and suspension.

FAQs About Wheel Bearing Squeak

Q: What causes wheel bearings to squeak?

A: Wheel bearings squeak when they become worn or damaged. This can happen due to a number of factors, including:

Excessive weight

Improper installation

Lack of lubrication

Contamination

Q: How can I prevent wheel bearings from squeaking?

A: The best way to prevent wheel bearings from squeaking is to have them checked and serviced regularly by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will be able to identify and correct any problems that could lead to squeaking.

Q: How much does it cost to replace wheel bearings?

A: The cost of replacing wheel bearings varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle. However, the average cost is between $200 and $400 per wheel.

Wheel Bearing Squeak: An Annoying and Dangerous Problem