how to check for bad wheel bearings in Tesla Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019)

Subaru Outback 5th Generation (2015-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

4 min read

651 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 in Tesla Outback (2015-2019). 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 ensure the vehicle is securely supported by jack stands before working underneath it.
•Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect against debris and sharp edges.

Symptoms

•Grinding or rumbling noise from the wheel area, especially when turning
•Vibration felt in the steering wheel or floorboard
•Uneven tire wear
•Increased play in the wheel when lifted
•Warning light on the dashboard (if equipped with wheel speed sensors)

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check for any visible damage or corrosion on the wheel bearings and surrounding components.
2
Lift the vehicle and spin the wheel by hand; listen for any abnormal noises.
3
Grasp the top and bottom of the tire and shake it; excessive movement may indicate bearing wear.
4
Drive the vehicle and listen for any noise changes while turning left and right; this can help isolate which bearing may be faulty.
5
After driving, check the temperature of the wheel hub; a significantly higher temperature may indicate bearing failure.

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
•Wheel chocks
•Safety goggles
•Gloves
•Bearing press
•Torque wrench

Parts Required

•New wheel bearings
•New hub assembly (if damaged)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Check for any visible damage or corrosion on the wheel bearings and surrounding components.
2
Lift the vehicle and spin the wheel by hand; listen for any abnormal noises.
3
Grasp the top and bottom of the tire and shake it; excessive movement may indicate bearing wear.
4
Drive the vehicle and listen for any noise changes while turning left and right; this can help isolate which bearing may be faulty.
5
After driving, check the temperature of the wheel hub; a significantly higher temperature may indicate bearing failure.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Jack and jack stands, lug wrench, wheel chocks, safety goggles, gloves.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal to avoid any electrical hazards.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Use a jack to lift the front or rear of the vehicle, depending on which wheel bearings are suspected to be faulty.
Secure the vehicle on jack stands to ensure stability.

3. Remove the Wheel

Use a lug wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts from the wheel.
Carefully take off the wheel and set it aside.

4. Inspect Wheel Bearing

Visual Inspection: Look for any signs of wear, rust, or damage on the wheel bearing and spindle.
Wiggle Test: Shake the wheel hub up and down and side to side; any play should be noted.

5. Remove and Replace Wheel Bearing

Remove Caliper and Rotor: Unbolt the brake caliper and hang it using a bungee cord. Remove the brake rotor to access the wheel bearing.
Remove the Hub Assembly: Unbolt the hub assembly from the steering knuckle. You may need to use a hub puller if it’s stuck.
Replace the Wheel Bearing: Press out the old bearing using a bearing press. Install the new bearing in the hub assembly, ensuring it’s seated properly.
Reinstall Hub Assembly: Reverse the removal process to reinstall the hub assembly, caliper, and rotor.
Torque Specifications: Ensure all bolts are torqued to manufacturer specifications (refer to the service manual for exact values).

6. Reattach Wheel and Lower Vehicle

Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to the specified value in a star pattern.

7. Final Checks

Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Perform a test drive to ensure that the issue has been resolved.