how to tell if my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) wheel bearings are bad

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

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

578 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

Learn how to diagnose and fix bad wheel bearings on your Ford F-150 13th Generation. 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

•Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle.
•Allow the brakes to cool before handling them after driving.

Symptoms

•Grinding or humming noise coming from the wheels while driving
•Vibration felt through the steering wheel or floor
•Uneven tire wear or bald spots on tires
•Steering wheel pulling to one side
•Wheel wobble or looseness during inspection
•ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard

Diagnostic Steps

1
Perform a visual inspection of the wheel bearings for any signs of wear or damage.
2
Check for play in the wheel by lifting the vehicle and shaking the wheel at 12 and 6 o'clock positions.
3
Spin the wheel and listen for any unusual noises that may indicate bearing failure.
4
Inspect the brake components to ensure they are not causing noise or vibration.
5
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any related error codes, particularly those related to the ABS.

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

•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Bearing puller
•Brake cleaner
•Bungee cord or wire

Parts Required

•New wheel bearings
•Brake rotor (if damaged)
•Brake pads (if worn)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Perform a visual inspection of the wheel bearings for any signs of wear or damage.
2
Check for play in the wheel by lifting the vehicle and shaking the wheel at 12 and 6 o'clock positions.
3
Spin the wheel and listen for any unusual noises that may indicate bearing failure.
4
Inspect the brake components to ensure they are not causing noise or vibration.
5
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any related error codes, particularly those related to the ABS.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather all required tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the ignition is off.
Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.

2. Remove Wheel

Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel.
Fully remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

3. Access Wheel Bearing

Remove the brake caliper by unscrewing the caliper mounting bolts (usually 13mm or 15mm) and securing it with a bungee cord or wire to avoid stress on the brake line.
Remove the brake rotor by taking off the retaining screws (if present) and sliding the rotor off the hub.

4. Inspect and Replace Wheel Bearing

Use a socket set to remove the hub assembly retaining bolts (typically 30mm).
If necessary, use a bearing puller to remove the old wheel bearing from the knuckle.
Clean the hub and knuckle area thoroughly.
Install the new wheel bearing by pressing it into place or using a bearing installer tool.
Reattach the hub assembly using the retaining bolts, torquing them to the manufacturer's specifications (typically 85-115 ft-lbs).

5. Reassemble Components

Reinstall the brake rotor and secure it with retaining screws.
Reattach the brake caliper and tighten the mounting bolts to manufacturer specifications (usually 25-30 ft-lbs).
Reinstall the wheel, tightening the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to the manufacturer’s torque specifications (typically 100-150 ft-lbs).

6. Final Inspection

Lower the vehicle and perform a final check on all components.
Ensure all tools and equipment are cleared from the work area.