Firestone Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost: A Comprehensive Guide to Keeping Your Vehicle Safe

Introduction

Firestone is a leading provider of automotive services, including wheel bearing replacement. A worn-out wheel bearing can cause a variety of problems, including noise, vibration, and even premature tire wear. Replacing a wheel bearing is a relatively simple procedure, but it is important to have it done by a qualified mechanic to ensure that the job is done correctly.

What is a Wheel Bearing?

A wheel bearing is a crucial component of your vehicle's suspension system. It allows the wheels to rotate smoothly and freely, while also supporting the weight of the vehicle. Wheel bearings are typically made of metal or ceramic and are sealed to keep out dirt and moisture.

Signs of a Bad Wheel Bearing

There are several signs that may indicate a bad wheel bearing, including:

• Noise: A worn-out wheel bearing can produce a variety of noises, including grinding, humming, or squealing. The noise may be worse when turning or driving over rough roads.
• Vibration: A bad wheel bearing can also cause vibration in the steering wheel, floorboard, or seat. The vibration may be worse at higher speeds.
• Uneven tire wear: A worn-out wheel bearing can cause the tire to wobble, which can lead to uneven tire wear.

Causes of Wheel Bearing Failure

There are several factors that can contribute to wheel bearing failure, including:

• Age: Wheel bearings typically last for 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, they can fail sooner if the vehicle is driven in harsh conditions or if the bearings are not properly lubricated.
• Overloading: Overloading the vehicle can put excessive stress on the wheel bearings, leading to premature failure.
• Impact damage: Hitting a pothole or curb can damage the wheel bearing.
• Water damage: Driving through deep water can damage the wheel bearing seals, allowing water and dirt to enter the bearing.

Firestone Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost

The cost of replacing a wheel bearing at Firestone will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the severity of the damage. However, you can expect to pay between $200 and $600 for the replacement, including parts and labor.

How to Save Money on Wheel Bearing Replacement

There are several ways to save money on wheel bearing replacement, including:

• Shop around: Get quotes from several different mechanics before you decide who to use.
• Use aftermarket parts: Aftermarket wheel bearings are typically less expensive than OEM parts.
• Do it yourself: If you are mechanically inclined, you can save money by replacing the wheel bearing yourself. However, it is important to note that this is a complex procedure that should only be attempted by experienced mechanics.

Firestone Wheel Bearing Replacement Warranty

Firestone offers a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on all wheel bearing replacements. This warranty covers both parts and labor.

Tips and Tricks

• Have your wheel bearings inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic. This will help to identify any potential problems early on, before they can cause major damage.
• If you hear any strange noises or vibrations coming from your vehicle, have it inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. This could be a sign of a bad wheel bearing.
• Avoid overloading your vehicle. This can put excessive stress on the wheel bearings, leading to premature failure.
• Drive carefully over rough roads. Hitting a pothole or curb can damage the wheel bearings.
• If you drive through deep water, make sure to have your wheel bearings inspected afterwards. Water can damage the wheel bearing seals, allowing water and dirt to enter the bearing.

Potential Drawbacks

• Replacing a wheel bearing can be a time-consuming procedure. It typically takes several hours to complete.
• The cost of replacing a wheel bearing can be expensive, especially if you need to have it done at a mechanic's shop.
• If the wheel bearing is not replaced correctly, it can cause further damage to your vehicle.

FAQs

Q: How long do wheel bearings typically last?
A: Wheel bearings typically last for 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, they can fail sooner if the vehicle is driven in harsh conditions or if the bearings are not properly lubricated.

Q: What are the signs of a bad wheel bearing?
A: The signs of a bad wheel bearing include noise, vibration, and uneven tire wear.

Q: How much does it cost to replace a wheel bearing at Firestone?
A: The cost of replacing a wheel bearing at Firestone will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the severity of the damage. However, you can expect to pay between $200 and $600 for the replacement, including parts and labor.

Stories

Story 1:

A man was driving down the highway when he heard a loud noise coming from his car. He pulled over to the side of the road and got out to investigate. He soon discovered that one of his wheel bearings had failed. The wheel was wobbling and the tire was rubbing against the wheel well. The man called a tow truck and had his car towed to a mechanic's shop. The mechanic replaced the wheel bearing and the man was able to continue on his way.

What we learn: It is important to have your wheel bearings inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic. This will help to identify any potential problems early on, before they can cause major damage.

Story 2:

A woman was driving home from work when she hit a pothole. She heard a loud bang and felt the car lurch to one side. She pulled over to the side of the road and got out to inspect the damage. She soon discovered that one of her wheel bearings had been damaged. The wheel was wobbling and the tire was rubbing against the wheel well. The woman called her husband and he came to help her change the tire. The woman was able to drive home, but she had to take her car to a mechanic's shop the next day to have the wheel bearing replaced.

What we learn: Avoid driving over potholes and curbs. Hitting a pothole or curb can damage the wheel bearings.

Story 3:

A man was driving down a dirt road when he heard a loud noise coming from his car. He pulled over to the side of the road and got out to investigate. He soon discovered that one of his wheel bearings had failed. The wheel was wobbling and the tire was rubbing against the wheel well. The man tried to change the tire himself, but he was unable to get the lug nuts loose. He called a tow truck and had his car towed to a mechanic's shop. The mechanic replaced the wheel bearing and the man was able to continue on his way.

What we learn: If you are not mechanically inclined, it is best to leave wheel bearing replacement to the professionals.

Conclusion

Wheel bearings are an important part of your vehicle's suspension system. They allow the wheels to rotate smoothly and freely, while also supporting the weight of the vehicle. If a wheel bearing fails, it can cause a variety of problems, including noise, vibration, and even premature tire wear. It is important to have your wheel bearings inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic to ensure that they are in good condition. If you do need to replace a wheel bearing, Firestone is a good option. They offer competitive prices and a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on all wheel bearing replacements.