how to replace a wheel bearing on Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

600 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Step-by-step guide on how to replace the wheel bearing on a Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present). Includes symptoms, diagnostic steps, and tools required.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always disconnect the battery before working on brake components.
•Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands before working underneath.

Symptoms

•Grinding or humming noise while driving, especially when turning
•Vibration felt through the steering wheel or vehicle body
•Uneven tire wear
•Loose steering or handling issues
•Warning light for traction control or ABS may illuminate

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the wheel assembly for play or movement by grabbing the wheel at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions and shaking it.
2
Listen for any grinding noises while rotating the wheel by hand.
3
Check for any visible damage or excessive rust on the wheel bearings or hub assembly.
4
Scan the vehicle with an OBD-II scanner for any related error codes.
5
Lift the vehicle and spin the wheel to hear for abnormal noises or roughness.

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
•Jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Wheel bearing puller
•Hammer
•Grease

Parts Required

•New wheel bearing
•Brake rotor (if worn)
•Brake pads (if worn)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the wheel assembly for play or movement by grabbing the wheel at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions and shaking it.
2
Listen for any grinding noises while rotating the wheel by hand.
3
Check for any visible damage or excessive rust on the wheel bearings or hub assembly.
4
Scan the vehicle with an OBD-II scanner for any related error codes.
5
Lift the vehicle and spin the wheel to hear for abnormal noises or roughness.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench, socket set, torque wrench, wheel bearing puller, hammer, and grease.
Raise the vehicle using a jack and support it securely on jack stands.
Remove the wheel using a lug wrench.

2. Remove Brake Components

Sub-steps:
1. Remove the caliper by unscrewing the caliper bolts (usually 12mm or 14mm).
2. Hang the caliper using a bungee cord or similar to avoid straining the brake line.
3. Remove the brake rotor by removing the retaining screws, if present, and sliding it off the hub.

3. Remove Hub Assembly

Sub-steps:
1. Remove any dust cover or retaining ring that secures the wheel bearing.
2. Unscrew the hub assembly bolts (typically 30mm) and remove them carefully.
3. Use a wheel bearing puller to extract the hub assembly from the spindle, if necessary.

4. Install New Wheel Bearing

Sub-steps:
1. Clean the hub area and apply a light layer of grease to the new wheel bearing.
2. Position the new wheel bearing into the hub assembly.
3. Reinstall the hub assembly by aligning it with the spindle and securing it with the hub assembly bolts, tightening them to the manufacturer's specified torque (usually around 85-100 ft-lbs).

5. Reassemble Brake Components

Sub-steps:
1. Reinstall the brake rotor and secure it with retaining screws.
2. Reattach the brake caliper and tighten the caliper bolts to the specified torque (typically 20-25 ft-lbs).
3. Reinstall the dust cover or retaining ring, if applicable.

6. Reinstall Wheel and Lower Vehicle

Sub-steps:
1. Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
2. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and then fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to the specified torque (usually 100-110 ft-lbs).