Wheel Bearing Noise ?

[bradspau]

I have a suspect rubbing noise from the front wheels. Checked all the usual and after other posts on this site, seems it could be the wheel bearing. Rubbing noise only happens on left turns.

Question is, how can I tell if it is a bearing problem? Are there any simple checks that can be made ? What are normal prices for DIY and non-dealer garage replacements.

 

[nickmann]

If it is a wheel bearing it will be one of the O/S ones. Working front and rear one at a time, jack up the car so the wheel is clear of the ground. Hold the wheel at top and bottom and try to rock it in and out. There should be a barely, and I do mean barely, perceptible movement. Any more than that and I would adjust it so the play is correct.

The method of adjustment is often to tighten to a specific torque then back it off 'x' number of degrees. It can also be done by feel and test. It's not rocket science, you are simply balancing room for heat expansion against "slop".

Can't help with prices as I haven't had to do mine, sorry.

 

[bradspau]

noise - update

checked wheel bearing play, and they feel solid enough. had both pads off both sides checked for stones, etc. Nothing...any more ideas ??

 

[Brian WH]

checked wheel bearing play, and they feel solid enough. had both pads off both sides checked for stones, etc. Nothing...any more ideas ??

Just an outside chance - Have you mud flaps fitted?

 

[R2D2]

How many miles have you done. If its more than 50k, then I bet its your ball joint not your bearing. I had both mine done at around 60,000 but before they were done i was convinced it was a bearing!

 

[Ian B Walker]

Depending on what car you own and the size of the tyres. I had a similar problem on a 124. What had happened was that the gator covering the shock had slipped down a little and when turning it caught the wheel. Might be worth looking at?

 

[C240Sport97]

I have rubbing noises too ...

It's caused by the plastic liner just in front of the front wheel coming slightly towards the wheel, causing scraping noises when turning. The plastic liner is held by some bolts, and the plastic at where one of the bolts is has broken so liner is not where it should be (i.e. too far back towards the back of the car). Nothing wrong with suspension or anything like that.

checked wheel bearing play, and they feel solid enough. had both pads off both sides checked for stones, etc. Nothing...any more ideas ??