Does a damaged plain bearing affect the car?
3 Answers
Damage to the plain bearing does have an impact. In mild cases, it affects comfort, increases tire noise, and causes the vehicle to pull to one side. In severe cases, it can lead to suspension damage, resulting in steering system failure and potential traffic accidents. Symptoms of plain bearing damage: 1. Audible signs: A "squeaking" sound when turning the steering wheel while stationary or at low speeds, and in severe cases, vibration can be felt in the steering wheel; noticeable increase in tire noise while driving, with a buzzing sound in severe cases; a "thumping" sound when driving on bumpy roads or over speed bumps. 2. Vehicle pulling: The vehicle pulling to one side could be due to damage to the pressure bearing.
Once my car's wheel bearing failed, and while driving, there was a loud humming noise from underneath the car. The faster I drove, the louder the noise became, and I could feel the entire steering wheel vibrating, making the drive extremely uncomfortable. I took it to a repair shop for inspection, and the mechanic explained that the bearing supports the wheel's rotation, and if it fails, the wheel can become unstable. Driving for a long time with a bad bearing could cause it to seize or even come apart, leading to an accident. Later, I spent a few hundred dollars to replace the bearing, and the problem was resolved. Since then, I’ve made it a habit to stop and check whenever I hear unusual noises—safety comes first. I suggest you don’t take it lightly either. Although bearings are small, they play a crucial role in the car. Ignoring them could damage other components, such as the suspension system, doubling the repair costs. Paying extra attention to the wheel area during regular maintenance can help avoid a lot of trouble.
The impact of a faulty wheel bearing on a car is significant, especially in terms of safety. As someone who frequently drives long distances, I understand that a damaged bearing increases the risk of wheel wobbling, which can lead to loss of control at high speeds. Since bearings are responsible for shock absorption and stabilizing wheel rotation, their failure results in a bumpy ride and may extend braking distances, making driving even more hazardous in rainy or snowy conditions. Additionally, bearing issues often come with noise, affecting cabin comfort. I recommend addressing the problem immediately upon detection to avoid major consequences. Repairs are relatively simple and cost just a few hundred yuan, but waiting until wheel issues escalate into accidents can lead to severe losses. Stay alert to abnormal vibrations during daily driving, diagnose problems early, and ensure road safety.
