Wheel Bearings
Hearing a humming noise from your wheels in Thousand Oaks? Worn wheel bearings are a common cause of wheel noise and can become a safety hazard if ignored. At Gallardo's Automotive Service, we diagnose wheel bearing problems accurately and replace worn bearings to restore quiet, safe operation.
Warning Signs of Worn Wheel Bearings
Sounds
- Humming or droning noise – increases with speed
- Growling or rumbling – most noticeable at steady speeds
- Noise changes when turning – shifts from side to side
- Grinding sound – severe bearing wear (needs immediate attention)
- Clicking or snapping – especially when turning (may indicate CV joint as well)
- Noise starts at specific speed – 30-50 mph is common
Handling Issues
- Steering wheel vibration – at highway speeds
- Loose steering feel – vague or wandering
- Vehicle pulls to one side – during braking
- ABS warning light – wheel speed sensor may be affected
Physical Signs
- Wheel play – detectable wobble when wheel is lifted
- Uneven tire wear – bearing allows wheel to tilt
- Heat from wheel area – bearing friction generates heat
How to Tell Which Bearing Is Bad
Wheel bearing noise often shifts during turns:
- Noise louder turning right – often indicates left bearing
- Noise louder turning left – often indicates right bearing
- Why? Turning loads weight onto the outer wheels, stressing that bearing more
We use road testing and lift inspection to confirm which bearing needs replacement.
What Causes Wheel Bearing Failure?
Normal Wear
- Bearings wear over time with normal use
- High-mileage vehicles are more prone to bearing wear
- Typical lifespan: 75,000-150,000 miles
Contamination
- Water intrusion – crossing streams, deep puddles, or boat launching
- Damaged seal – allows dirt and moisture in
- Impact damage – hitting potholes or curbs
Improper Installation
- Incorrect torque on axle nut
- Damage during previous repair
- Poor quality replacement parts
Related Component Wear
- Worn suspension components can stress bearings
- Tire and wheel imbalance creates extra load
- Bent or damaged axle affects bearing alignment
Wheel Bearing Types
Hub Assembly (Sealed Bearing)
Most modern vehicles use sealed hub assemblies:
- Bearing, hub, and often ABS sensor in one unit
- Replaced as complete assembly
- No adjustment or repacking possible
- More expensive but more reliable
Serviceable Wheel Bearings
Found on older vehicles and many trucks:
- Inner and outer bearings with races
- Can be cleaned and repacked with grease
- Adjustable for proper preload
- Common on trailers and boat trailers
Our Wheel Bearing Service
Diagnosis
- Road test to identify noise characteristics
- Lift inspection to check for wheel play
- Listen for bearing noise with specialized tools
- Check hub assembly for looseness
- Inspect related components
Replacement Service
- Quality hub assembly or bearing set
- New hardware and seals
- Proper torque on all fasteners
- ABS sensor verification
- Road test to confirm repair
What to Expect: Timeframes
| Service | Typical Time |
|---|---|
| Wheel Bearing Inspection | 30-45 minutes |
| Front Hub Assembly Replacement | 1-2 hours per side |
| Rear Hub Assembly Replacement | 1-2 hours per side |
| Press-In Bearing Replacement | 2-3 hours per side |
| Serviceable Bearing Repack | 1-1.5 hours per axle |
The Gallardo's Wheel Bearing Advantage
- Accurate diagnosis – we identify the correct wheel before replacement
- Quality parts – OEM and premium aftermarket hub assemblies
- Proper installation – correct torque specifications followed
- Complete inspection – we check related suspension and brake components
- ABS sensor verification – ensure proper function after repair
- Warranty coverage – we stand behind our wheel bearing repairs
- Financing available through our special financing program
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I drive with a bad wheel bearing?
A wheel bearing making noise will eventually fail completely. While early-stage wear may allow limited driving, a severely worn bearing can seize or cause wheel separation. Don't delay – have noise investigated promptly.
Is wheel bearing replacement expensive?
Cost varies by vehicle. Hub assembly replacement on most vehicles is moderate compared to other repairs. Press-in bearings requiring special tools cost more in labor. Delaying repair can damage other components, increasing total cost.
Can I replace just one wheel bearing?
Yes, we typically replace only the failed bearing. However, if the opposite bearing is also showing wear, replacing both may be cost-effective since similar mileage often means similar wear.
Why did my wheel bearing fail early?
Premature failure can result from water contamination (driving through deep water), impact damage (potholes), improper previous installation, or manufacturing defects. We can often identify the cause during replacement.
Do I need an alignment after wheel bearing replacement?
Wheel bearing replacement typically doesn't affect alignment. However, if other suspension components are replaced at the same time, alignment may be recommended.
Special Note for Boaters and Off-Road Drivers
If you regularly:
- Launch boats (submerging trailer hubs)
- Cross streams or ford water
- Drive through deep puddles
Your wheel bearings face accelerated wear from water contamination. More frequent inspection is recommended. We also service trailer wheel bearings – don't forget your boat trailer!
Related Services
Serving the Conejo Valley & Ventura County
Gallardo's Automotive Service provides expert wheel bearing service to drivers in:
- Thousand Oaks
- Westlake Village
- Newbury Park
- Moorpark
- Agoura Hills
- Oak Park
- Camarillo
- Simi Valley
Don't ignore that humming noise. Call us at (805) 494-9358 or schedule an appointment online for wheel bearing diagnosis and repair.
At Gallardo's Automotive Service, your complete automotive care center in Thousand Oaks, CA, we'll restore quiet, safe wheel operation. Give us a call and let us help keep you safely and economically on the road.
