Is your Mini making an unusual sound that makes you suspect something might be wrong with the wheels? This might be the best time to check your front wheel bearings. These Mini components are situated at the inner part of the wheel hub and they are made in the form of small metal balls or rollers surrounded by a ring. They allow the wheels to turn easily with little resistance and bear the load on your Mini so that the wheels can easily turn. Below are the symptoms, causes, and what can be done concerning the wheel bearing problems.
How To Know When Your Front Wheel Bearing Needs Replacement
- Unusual Noises: One of the most typical and easy-to-notice symptoms is noise. If you notice a grinding or growling noise that originates from the front wheels, it may be wise to check the wheel bearing as it may be bad. This noise usually increases when you press the gas pedal or when you are turning the steering wheel.
- Vibrations: Hearing or even feeling vibrations from the steering wheel or the entire vehicle is a sign that the wheel bearing is faulty. These vibrations are most felt when your Mini is driven at high speeds and they hinder the smooth turning of the car.
- Uneven Tire Wear: If you observe that the tires are wearing out unevenly, then the wheel bearing could be bad. If the bearing is bad, the wheels will be off and this will cause irregular wearing out of the tires. Check your tires often for signs of uneven wear patterns.
- Wheel Play: When the wheel bearing is worn out, it is possible to feel some sort of loose movement in the wheel. To check for this you can jack up the vehicle and try to move the wheel side to side. If there is some movement, then it is high time the wheel bearing was replaced.
Reasons Why Wheel Bearings Get Damaged
- Age and Wear: Many car parts including wheel bearings are bound to wear out after some time. The constant friction and stress that the metal balls have to endure can cause them to wear out. This wear can however be identified during general maintenance or inspection to prevent it from failing.
- Driving Conditions: Driving on bumpy surfaces or over speed humps can cause additional pressure on the wheel bearings. If you often use your Mini in extreme conditions, then your bearings may degrade more quickly.
- Poor Lubrication: Proper lubrication is needed if you want your wheel bearings to spin freely. With time, the lubricant may degrade or even leak out leading to increased friction and wear. General care and constant monitoring or replenishment of the lubricants will help extend the life of bearings.
- Contamination: Dirt or other contaminants can find their way into the wheel bearing assembly. This can result in higher surface friction and ultimately failure of the bearing. It is recommended to check that the seals of the wheel bearing are in place and the wheel area should be cleaned frequently to avoid contamination.
How to Replace Front Wheel Bearings
Replacing a wheel bearing is a technical process that can only be accomplished by a qualified technician using appropriate tools. It is always advisable to let a professional do the replacement so that it is done correctly. The bearing will be accessed after the mechanic has pulled out the wheel, brake assembly, and hub. They will then remove the old bearing by pressing it out and replacing it with a new one. Finally, all the parts that were removed are carefully reassembled to ensure proper alignment.
We Can Help You Fix Your Mini Wheel Bearing Issues
Here at Import Motorworks, we are known for solving different kinds of problems in European vehicles such as Mini for drivers in McDonald, TN. If you feel that your Mini is displaying any of the signs mentioned above, just bring it to us. We have skilled techs who can give your Mini a comprehensive check-up and use genuine parts to keep your car in good condition. Our garage is also known to help Mini drivers who are from areas close to our location such as from Chattanooga, Ooltewah, East Brainerd, Cleveland, Harrison, TN, and Ringgold, GA. Come to our service center now or contact us through our phone to make an appointment and maintain your Mini.
