Why Wheel Bearing Maintenance is Important

We all know that good, strong wheels are necessary for cars to function correctly. However, you may not realize how the simple components that form part of your car’s wheels are vital to good working wheels. There are numerous moving parts in your automobile, and one of them is the wheel bearing. The wheel bearing is integral in the efficient rotation of wheels. Over time though, these components will require proper maintenance and servicing to work harmoniously with other parts of the wheel.

The Importance of Wheel Bearing Maintenance

Servicing your car’s wheel bearings can considerably boost its overall safety; that’s why you should never disregard it. If your vehicle has bad wheel bearings, it can lead to uneven wear on the brakes or tires and even more severe damage. Having faulty wheel bearings can, therefore, compromise your vehicle’s safety and put you and your passengers at a higher risk of being in an accident.

Signs of Bad Wheel Bearings

It is important to get your wheel bearing serviced as soon as you notice any problems. Never overlook any warning signs of wheel bearing issues. Several symptoms that can tell you that you may have a failing wheel bearing include:

Noise in the Tires 

The most common sign of a faulty wheel bearing is noise coming from the tire area. Try to listen carefully, however, so you won’t mistake the sound as mere engine noise. Faulty wheel bearings generate a grinding, granting, or whining noise which gets louder once you accelerate.

Wheel Vibrations

Bad wheel bearings can lead to vibrations in the steering wheel. If you observe this symptom, you should get your vehicle checked at an auto repair shop as soon as possible. This issue progresses and worsens once you accelerate or make a turn.

Problematic Steering

Worn-out wheel bearings can also lead to problematic steering. It makes your vehicle feel loose while you steer, making it dangerous to drive, especially during tight turns.

Abnormal Wear and Tear in the Tires

Bad wheel bearings can cause abnormal wear and tear in the tires. If you see uneven tire wear, you need to get your vehicle examined by a certified technician. He should be able to diagnose the source of uneven tire wear. If it is due to worn-out wheel bearings, then you will need to replace them immediately.

Conclusion

Remember that your wheel bearings won’t last long once you notice any of the symptoms we have just talked about. There’s also no way to tell how much time and miles are left in these components. The lifespan of your wheel bearings will depend mainly on driving conditions and the quality of your wheels. 

If worn-out bearings remain unchecked, they can damage other components of your car. For this reason, it’s important that you get them inspected right away the moment you notice any of the above symptoms. Replacing faulty wheel bearings isn’t expensive, but it can lead to more serious damages that require costly repairs when you don’t replace them quickly.