What are the symptoms of a bad car wheel bearing?
2 Answers
The symptoms of a bad car wheel bearing include: 1. The wheel wobbles when the car is moving; 2. Unusual noises occur; 3. Poor rolling, leading to a decrease in power. Methods to diagnose a bad car wheel bearing: 1. Open the window and listen for sounds; 2. Increase the speed, shift to neutral, and let the vehicle coast to observe the noise; 3. Temporarily stop the car and check the temperature of the wheel hub; 4. Lift the car with a jack and manually rotate the four wheels quickly. Causes of a bad car wheel bearing: 1. Improper wheel installation; 2. Improper assembly or adjustment; 3. Poor lubrication; 4. Quality issues with the bearing itself.
A few days ago, I felt something was wrong during a long drive, and the symptoms of a bad wheel bearing were quite obvious. First, there was a humming noise, especially when turning or accelerating, and the sound grew louder, like tires rubbing against something. The steering wheel would shake, and the car would vibrate severely when driving, even causing the entire body to wobble. The wheel would get extremely hot to the touch, possibly emitting a burnt smell. The ABS system light might come on because the damaged bearing affects sensor readings. Tire wear would become uneven, leading to imbalanced tire pressure over time. Once these symptoms appear, it's essential to visit a repair shop. The inspection method is simple: lift the car and manually rotate the wheel to listen for unusual noises. After replacing the bearing, the problem is resolved, costing a few hundred to a thousand yuan. Don’t delay to avoid losing control at high speeds.