The human body has strange ways of telling if something is concerning overall health. Similarly, your car can show the signs too. It will show the symptoms and signs when any component is troubling or failing. You can only get it right if you are paying attention. 

So, if your car suddenly makes strange noises and vibrations are continuous with a metal grinding voice, you should not ignore it. 

Initially, it is easy to ignore it as you might think it is coming from the radio or due to the wind. But if the sound keeps disturbing, you need to consider all the signs of bad hub bearings deeply. 

How Long Do Wheel Bearings Last?

Wheel bearings typically last 136,000 to 160,000 kilometers (85,000 to 100,000 miles). However, this is simply a guideline; its quality and working conditions determine the actual lifespan of a wheel bearing.

However, in some cases, the bearings may become damaged or wear out prematurely. This usually occurs after an accident or when driving in conditions that are extremely tough on the bearings, such as driving over large potholes, hitting tall curbs, or off-roading. 

You won't have to worry about your wheel bearings wearing out if you simply drive on smooth city streets.

Can you prevent wear and tear on the hub bearings?

If you want to keep your wheel bearings in good condition for as long as possible, you should drive carefully. Hitting curbs or slamming on the brakes can place unnecessary strain on the bearings, causing wear and tear and eventually leading to worse problems.

When possible, stick to smooth, well-maintained roads without potholes, and avoid off-roading if your vehicle isn't designed for it. The gentler you are with your vehicle, the longer your wheel bearings survive. 

Common Symptoms of Failing Wheel Bearings Needs Replacement

Not sure when to replace hub bearings? Symptoms of a faulty wheel bearing are pretty simple: You'll hear a grinding sound until the road noise drowns it out.

The noise implies rapid metal-on-metal rubbing caused by defective bearings scraping against their housing and, worse, the wheel hub surrounding them.

If the problem is with the front hub bearings, rotating the steering wheel may amplify or change the pitch of the noise. 

What else is there to notice?

• Loose Wheel

A loose wheel can indicate loose bearing wheels because the wheel bearings are responsible for securely attaching the wheel assembly to the vehicle's axle bearings. When the wheel bearings wear or are damaged, the wheel assembly might move and become loose. 

This movement can cause the wheel to wobble, resulting in a perceptible vibration in the vehicle and uneven tire wear. If the problem is not handled immediately, the wheel may become totally disconnected from the car while driving in hazardous conditions.

• Vibrations

If your vehicle vibrates when you turn or change speeds, it may be time to replace your wheel bearings. Many car owners don't believe that faulty wheel bearings are the core source of vibrations, yet they may. 

• Pulling to One Side

When your wheel bearings are in good condition, your car should handle tightly and responsively. If your vehicle drifts to one side or stops responding, your wheel bearings could be to blame.

If you are suffering steering drift, contact a mechanic. A variety of things might affect your vehicle's steering, and a mechanic can identify the source of the problem.

Uneven tire wear occurs when the ball bearings or tapers become loose in their housings or lose their efficacy. Excess play or movement within the wheel assembly can also cause the vehicle's steering to feel 'loose.

What Happens If I Don’t Replace My Auto Wheel Bearings?

If left unchecked, catastrophic axle failure is conceivable at this point, which is as horrible as it sounds because it frequently results in the wheel being separated from the car.  

You don’t want to risk this much to save some bucks. 

In other words, you need to understand that the wheel can literally come off as you drive down the road. It is unusual, although it can and does happen in cases of extreme long-term neglect. So, if you have confirmed the damage, do not delay the replacement. 

Reach out to the reliable auto parts shop for the best auto spare parts in UAE and get a high-quality hub bearing for replacement as soon as possible. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, paying attention to the signs of failing hub bearings is crucial for your vehicle’s safety and performance. Ignoring symptoms like unusual noises, vibrations, or loose wheels can lead to severe damage and costly repairs. Regular maintenance and timely replacement are essential to ensure smooth driving.
If you're looking for auto spare parts in Dubai, Eparts offers high-quality hub bearings, shock absorbers and other reliable spare parts to keep your vehicle in top condition. Visit Eparts today to find the best solutions for all your automotive needs and drive with confidence.