how to test wheel bearings on Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017)

Honda Accord Eleventh Generation (2023-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

4 min read

616 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 test and replace wheel bearings on a 2013-2017 Honda Accord. 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.
•Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged before lifting.

Symptoms

•Grinding or humming noise while driving, particularly when turning
•Vibration in the steering wheel
•Uneven tire wear
•Wheel wobble or looseness when lifted
•Increased road noise

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check for any visible damage or debris around the wheel hub and bearing area.
2
Use a jack to raise the front or rear of the vehicle, depending on which wheel bearings are being tested.
3
Grasp the top and bottom of the wheel and check for any excessive movement. Repeat for each wheel.
4
Rotate the wheel by hand and listen for any grinding noises or roughness.
5
Drive the vehicle and note any abnormal noises or vibrations, especially during turns.

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
•Torque wrench
•Socket set
•Pry bar
•Hammer
•Wheel bearing puller

Parts Required

•New wheel bearing (specific to Honda Accord model)
•Brake rotor retaining screws (if needed)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Check for any visible damage or debris around the wheel hub and bearing area.
2
Use a jack to raise the front or rear of the vehicle, depending on which wheel bearings are being tested.
3
Grasp the top and bottom of the wheel and check for any excessive movement. Repeat for each wheel.
4
Rotate the wheel by hand and listen for any grinding noises or roughness.
5
Drive the vehicle and note any abnormal noises or vibrations, especially during turns.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather tools and parts required for the repair.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged.
Disconnect the battery if working on electrical components.

Tools Required:

Jack and jack stands
Lug wrench
Torque wrench
Socket set
Pry bar
Hammer
Wheel bearing puller (if replacement is necessary)

2. Remove the Wheel

Loosen the lug nuts using the lug wrench.
Raise the vehicle with the jack and secure it with jack stands.
Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.

3. Inspect and Test the Bearing

Check for Play: With the wheel removed, grasp the hub and try to move it up and down. Any noticeable play indicates a bad bearing.
Spin the Hub: Rotate the hub by hand and listen for any grinding noises or rough spots. If present, the bearing likely needs replacement.

4. Replace the Wheel Bearing (if necessary)

Remove Brake Caliper: Unbolt the brake caliper and secure it with a bungee cord to avoid strain on the brake line.
Remove Brake Rotor: Unscrew the rotor retaining screws and slide off the rotor.
Remove Hub Assembly: Use the socket set to unbolt the hub assembly from the steering knuckle.
Press Out Old Bearing: Use a wheel bearing puller to extract the old bearing from the hub assembly.
Install New Bearing: Press in the new bearing using the appropriate tools, ensuring it is seated properly.
Reassemble: Reverse the disassembly process to reattach the hub assembly, brake rotor, and caliper.

5. Reinstall the Wheel

Place the wheel back onto the hub.
Hand-tighten the lug nuts, then lower the vehicle off the jack stands.
Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications (typically around 80-100 ft-lbs).