How Many Kilometers Should Car Bearings Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Car bearings should generally be replaced every 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. However, if the bearings are not damaged, replacement may not be necessary. The replacement interval depends on the usage condition of the bearings. If a bearing fails, it is recommended to have it repaired or replaced at a 4S shop. Car bearings are one of the key components of a vehicle, primarily responsible for bearing weight and providing precise guidance for the rotation of the wheel hub. This means they must withstand both axial and radial loads. Wheel hub bearings are highly sensitive and require proper methods and appropriate tools in all situations. During storage, transportation, and installation, the components of the bearings must not be damaged. Some bearings require significant pressure for installation and necessitate the use of specialized tools.
I've driven a taxi for ten years, and there's no fixed answer when it comes to wheel bearings. Normally, driving around the city for a hundred thousand kilometers or so is usually fine, but if you frequently drive on rough roads or the wheels have been submerged in water, it's hard to say. There are warning signs before a bearing fails: a humming noise like an airplane taking off, which gets louder the faster you go; the sound changes pitch when turning, and if it's louder on the right when turning left, it means the right-side bearing is failing. Last time my car started humming at 60 km/h, and when we took it apart, the ball bearings had worn grooves. During maintenance, remember to have the mechanic lift the wheel and check for play—if there's any, it's time to prepare for a replacement.
