W204/S204 wheel bearing play

[pembssurf]

Do any W204/S204 owners happen to know what an acceptable level of play is in front bearings. Iv had numerous mechanics inform me there is too much play there. The play is when you shake it at the 6 and 12pm range of motion and is pretty obvious so much that you can both visually see it and hear it moving the hub a good few mm. Both front wheels have the exact same amount of play. On some cars I am aware this is considered normal amount of play.

I have no bearing type rumbling sounds but I do have a vibration shake for over a year now that I can’t get to the bottom of.


Car is on 39k miles and it has been present to some degree or another for over a year.

Been through 3 balances 4 wheel alignment and new tyres front and rear.


Trying to get

 

[PhilLinda]

Shouldn’t be any discernible play at all. I’d expect any Mercedes specialist, or main dealer, to be able to advise what remedial action is required.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

 

[pembssurf]

Been to Mercedes twice now who have said no issue. However 2 other mechanics who I trust said although they are not groaning yet there should not be that amount of play. Back to Mercedes we go!

 

[IanW]

I recently replaced one front wheel bearing and adjusted the other on my 2005 CLK.
I adjusted the hub nut to give the required 0.01 - 0.02 mm movement of the hub, as measured with a dial gauge. This translates to a barely discernible movement of the wheel+tyre at the 12+6 o'clock positions; certainly much less than 1 mm. Probably less than 0.1 mm.
If you really are getting several several mm movement, then the bearings need to be adjusted as a matter of urgency.
Ian.

 

[Codger49]

As IanW states, W204 wheel bearing play (except C63) should be 0.01- 0.02 mm i.e. barely discernable.

Have attached the WIS procedure for adjusting W204 front wheel bearing so you can ask your dealer why they think your amount of play is not an issue.

 

[markjay]

My W204 had an MOT advisory on front wheel bearing play two years ago.

Took the car to Terry at Wayne Gates who adjusted it in 10 minutes.

Since then the car passed two MOT with no advisories...

Just take it to a good indie and ask them to adjust it?

 

[pembssurf]

Thanks everyone. Invaluable advice as always. Got to boom the car in for the airbag recall so will get this sorted at the same time!

 

[optimusprime]

Looks like they are looking for £ s d to me adjustment is the way to go .

 

[pembssurf]

Replacement could be cheaper for me as it’s covered under warranty. I’m guessing adjustment is not?

 

[optimusprime]

pem you right . But if its free why not just get in there .

 

[pembssurf]

All booked in to Merc for later this month! Had recall work to do on the airbag as well!