Have you noticed a whirr or faint grind type noise coming from the front or rear of your Subaru? When driving over 30 miles per hour do you notice a change in the tone your vehicle makes when merging into traffic or taking a turn? Noises while driving can be alarming. Often times a noise while driving is a sign of a developing problem. It is always better to address small problems before they are a safety concern!
What causes Subaru wheel bearings / hubs to fail?
Wheel bearings are precisely machined roller bearings designed to take the weight and speed of your car. One large bearing is behind each of your Subaru wheels allowing it to roll freely. Here are some causes of wheel bearing wear or failure:
1.) Water intrusion. The most common cause of bearing failure in the New Orleans area is water intrusion. Wheel bearings have two large seals, one on each end. The wheel bearing seal protects the internal rollers and lubrication inside of the bearing. Especially if submerged in water, but also just living in our humid environment water can get past the seal. Water inside of a bearing is a recipe for failure. The machined hardened steel rollers begin to rust and pit on their surfaces, causing excess heat and friction. Eventually the bearing will start making noise and is in need of replacement.
2.) Contaminated bearing. Another way we see bearings fail is from outside contamination (besides water). If one of the seals on the bearing is compromised sand, road dirt and debris are allowed inside of the bearing. After grit is introduced to the bearing it mixes with the grease used to lubricate it. Grease with grit mixed in wears down the surface of the hardened steel rollers. The irregular surface of the worn rollers will eventually start making noise and need to be replaced.
3.) Impact. Collisions, curbs or large pot holes can damage wheel hubs. When one wheel of your vehicle is impacted during a collision or other impact event it sends a shock through your vehicle. Especially if a tire is damaged from impact it is a very good idea to check the wheel hub. The impact can put a slight bend in the hub causing it to not run true. A wheel hub or wheel bearing that is not running true is typically very identifiable. If you notice a grinding or whirr noise as well as your Subaru shakes when driving you could have a damaged wheel hub.
At Tim’s Quality Car Care in New Orleans we have the expert staff and specialized equipment to help with your Subaru wheel hubs and bearings. We can help check your entire vehicle with our Digital Vehicle Inspection and help keep your Subaru safe and reliable.
Hearing a noise? Let the mechanics at Tim’s take a look at your car.
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