Firestone Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost: A Comprehensive Guide

A faulty wheel bearing can lead to a bumpy ride, uneven tire wear, and impaired handling. When it comes to replacing wheel bearings, Firestone is a reputable option for drivers. This article delves into the factors affecting Firestone wheel bearing replacement cost, including labor charges, parts costs, and additional expenses.

Factors Affecting Firestone Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost

Labor Charges

The labor required to replace a wheel bearing varies depending on the vehicle make, model, and accessibility of the bearing. The hourly labor rate at Firestone typically ranges from $80 to $120. However, complex vehicles or hard-to-reach bearings may require more time and higher labor costs.

Parts Costs

The cost of the wheel bearing itself depends on the type of vehicle and the brand of the bearing. OEM (original equipment manufacturer) bearings tend to be more expensive, while aftermarket brands offer a cheaper alternative. Firestone typically uses high-quality aftermarket bearings, with prices usually ranging from $100 to $300 per bearing.

Additional Expenses

In some cases, additional expenses may arise during wheel bearing replacement. These could include:

• Axle Seal Replacement: Replacing the axle seal, which prevents leaks from the differential, may be necessary if it is damaged.
• ABS Sensor Repair: If the ABS (anti-lock braking system) sensor is damaged during the bearing replacement, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
• Hub Assembly Replacement: In some vehicles, the wheel bearing is integrated into the hub assembly. If the hub is damaged, it may need to be replaced.

Average Firestone Wheel Bearing Replacement Cost

The average Firestone wheel bearing replacement cost for a single bearing ranges from $350 to $650. However, the total cost can vary significantly depending on the aforementioned factors. Here is a breakdown of the cost components:

Why Wheel Bearing Replacement Matters

A faulty wheel bearing can lead to a number of issues, including:

• Rough Ride: Worn bearings can cause vibrations and a rough ride.
• Uneven Tire Wear: Impaired bearings can cause uneven tire wear, reducing their lifespan.
• Reduced Handling: Faulty bearings can affect vehicle handling and stability.
• Increased Braking Distance: Worn bearings can increase braking distance due to reduced friction between the brake pads and rotors.
• Safety Risk: Severe bearing failure can lead to a loss of wheel control, posing a safety risk.

Benefits of Replacing Wheel Bearings

Replacing faulty wheel bearings provides several benefits:

• Improved Ride Quality: New bearings ensure a smooth and comfortable ride.
• Increased Tire Life: Proper bearings promote even tire wear, extending their lifespan.
• Enhanced Handling: Properly functioning bearings improve vehicle handling and stability.
• Increased Fuel Efficiency: Reduced friction from new bearings can contribute to improved fuel efficiency.
• Safety Enhancement: Replacing faulty bearings eliminates the risk of wheel bearing failure and improves overall vehicle safety.

Stories to Learn From

Story 1:

A man was driving down the highway when he heard a loud noise coming from his front wheel. He pulled over and discovered that his wheel bearing had failed. Luckily, he was only a few miles from a Firestone Tire & Auto Care center. The mechanic quickly replaced the bearing and the man was back on the road in no time.

Moral of the story: Don't ignore unusual noises coming from your vehicle. Getting them checked out promptly can prevent costly repairs and potential safety hazards.

Story 2:

A woman was driving her car to work when her tire suddenly came off. She called a tow truck and was taken to the nearest mechanic. The mechanic discovered that the wheel bearing had shattered. The woman was grateful that the bearing had failed at low speed and not on the highway.

Moral of the story: Wheel bearings can fail suddenly and without warning. It's important to have them inspected regularly, especially if you drive in rough or uneven road conditions.

Story 3:

A group of friends were on a road trip when they heard a strange grinding noise coming from the back of their car. They stopped at a rest stop and checked the tires, but everything looked fine. They decided to continue driving, but the noise got louder and more persistent. Finally, they stopped at a Firestone location and the mechanic diagnosed a failed rear wheel bearing. The bearing was replaced and the friends were able to continue their trip without any further problems.

Moral of the story: Don't hesitate to have your vehicle checked out if you hear a strange noise. Waiting too long could lead to a more costly repair or even a dangerous situation.

Effective Strategies

To minimize the Firestone wheel bearing replacement cost, consider the following strategies:

• Regular Inspections: Have your wheel bearings inspected by a qualified mechanic during routine maintenance.
• Preventive Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for wheel bearing lubrication and replacement.
• Choose Quality Bearings: Opt for high-quality aftermarket or OEM bearings to ensure durability and reliability.
• Negotiate Labor Costs: Discuss labor charges with Firestone before the repair to ensure a fair price.
• Compare Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple Firestone locations to find the most competitive price.

Tips and Tricks

• Replace both wheel bearings on the same axle at the same time, even if only one bearing has failed. This will help ensure even wear and reduce the risk of premature failure.
• Check for other potential issues, such as worn brake pads or damaged rotors, which may have contributed to the wheel bearing failure.
• Use torque wrenches to properly tighten the wheel bearing bolts to the specified torque values.
• Refer to the vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions and torque specifications.
• If you're not comfortable performing the repair yourself, entrust the job to a qualified mechanic.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should wheel bearings be replaced?

The frequency of wheel bearing replacement depends on the vehicle make, model, driving conditions, and maintenance schedule. However, most mechanics recommend replacing wheel bearings every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.

2. Can I replace wheel bearings myself?

While it is possible to replace wheel bearings yourself, it is not recommended for inexperienced mechanics. The procedure requires specialized tools and knowledge to ensure proper installation and torque specifications.

3. What are the signs of a faulty wheel bearing?

Symptoms of a faulty wheel bearing can include a loud grinding or humming noise, excessive play in the wheel, vibration while driving, and uneven tire wear.

4. Can I drive with a faulty wheel bearing?

Driving with a faulty wheel bearing is not recommended. It can lead to further damage to the bearing, the hub assembly, and other components.

5. How long does it take to replace wheel bearings?

The time required to replace wheel bearings varies depending on the vehicle's accessibility and the mechanic's experience. However, a skilled mechanic can typically complete the replacement in 2 to 4 hours.

6. What is the warranty on Firestone wheel bearing replacement?

Firestone offers a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on wheel bearing replacement.

Call to Action

If you suspect that your vehicle's wheel bearings may be faulty, don't hesitate to schedule an inspection at your nearest Firestone Tire & Auto Care center. With expert technicians, quality parts, and fair pricing, Firestone ensures a reliable and cost-effective wheel bearing replacement experience.