how to check for worn wheel bearings on my Ford F-150

Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

527 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to check for worn wheel bearings on your Ford F-150. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Ensure the vehicle is securely elevated and stable on jack stands before working underneath.

Symptoms

•Grinding or humming noises while driving
•Vibration in the steering wheel or vehicle body
•Uneven tire wear
•Looseness in the wheel when shaken
•Pulling to one side during braking

Diagnostic Steps

1
Elevate the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands.
2
Remove the wheel to gain access to the hub assembly.
3
Visually inspect the wheel bearing for signs of damage or corrosion.
4
Grasp the wheel at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions and shake it to check for play.
5
Spin the hub by hand to listen for any abnormal noises.
6
Use a dial indicator to measure any axial play if necessary.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Jack and jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Wheel bearing grease
•Bearing puller

Parts Required

•New wheel bearings
•Wheel bearing grease

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Diagnostic Steps

1
Elevate the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands.
2
Remove the wheel to gain access to the hub assembly.
3
Visually inspect the wheel bearing for signs of damage or corrosion.
4
Grasp the wheel at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions and shake it to check for play.
5
Spin the hub by hand to listen for any abnormal noises.
6
Use a dial indicator to measure any axial play if necessary.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts needed for the repair.
Tools Required: Jack and jack stands, lug wrench, socket set, torque wrench, wheel bearing grease, and possibly a bearing puller.
Safety Warnings: Ensure the vehicle is securely elevated and stable on jack stands before working underneath.

2. Remove Wheel and Brake Components

Sub-step 1: Remove the lug nuts using a lug wrench and take off the wheel.
Sub-step 2: If necessary, remove the brake caliper by loosening the bolts and securing it away from the rotor.
Sub-step 3: Remove the brake rotor to access the bearing.

3. Remove and Inspect Wheel Bearing

Sub-step 1: If the bearing is pressed into the hub, use a bearing puller to extract it from the hub assembly.
Sub-step 2: Inspect the bearing for signs of wear such as pitting, discoloration, or roughness.
Sub-step 3: Clean the hub area and inspect it for any damage.

4. Install New Wheel Bearing

Sub-step 1: Apply an appropriate amount of wheel bearing grease to the new bearing.
Sub-step 2: Press the new bearing into the hub using a hydraulic press or bearing installation tool, ensuring it is seated correctly.
Sub-step 3: Reassemble the brake rotor and caliper, then reinstall the wheel.

5. Torque Lug Nuts

Sub-step 1: Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications (typically 80-100 ft-lbs for Ford F-150, check your specific model).
Sub-step 2: Lower the vehicle back to the ground and perform a final check on the lug nut torque.