Wheel hub bearings can wear down over time, and when they do, it can result in damage to wheel components. In some cases, wear to bearings can be difficult to detect, so the damage may occur before you’re even able to take any action to repair the problem. However, there are some telltale signs of bad wheel bearings that should cause you to take immediate corrective action.
Here is a quick overview of how to know if your wheel is going bad in Flagstaff, AZ:
- Strange clicking or popping noises: Unusual noises are never a good sign when you’re operating a vehicle. The nature of the noise will provide a hint as to the type of problem you’re facing. If you hear clicking, popping or snapping noises coming from the wheels, this could be indicative of an issue with your bearings, often involving improper clamping. If the problem does have to do with your bearings, you’re most likely to hear this noise when going around corners or making sharp turns.
- Rumbling or growling sounds: Another category of sound you might hear when dealing with bearing issues is a rumbling, humming or growling type of noise. These noises most frequently occur when there is an issue with tires, drivetrain or electrical components, but the problem could be bearing related. In such a case, you’re most likely to hear the noise when driving in a straight line, with it getting louder when you turn the wheel slightly left or right. The issue is most likely to be on the side opposite the rumbling side.
- Vibrating steering wheel: Wheel vibrations are often caused by suspension issues, damaged or worn tires or chassis misalignment, but can also be a result of worn bearings or hubs. Usually the problem in such a case will be a lack of clamp or a bearing that has sustained significant mechanical damage. It might also occur if your lug nots have not been properly torqued.
- Grinding during vehicle motion: When this problem is related to a bearing issue, you’re most likely to hear the noise while turning, or if there is a shift in load. Usually it means the bearing has experienced a loss of integrity.
- ABS failure: In rare cases, some of your internal and external sensors could be damaged by the excessive movement associated with an overabundance of end-play, which will indicate a loss or complete lack of bearing clamp. This usually is a result of significant mechanical damage. This is a problem you will need to correct immediately.
- Abnormal tire wear: There are many issues that can result in abnormal or uneven tire wear, and most of the time the causes are not bearing related. However, it is important to note that extreme bearing wear or looseness can result in abnormal tire wear, so it is at least important to check the bearings if you’re experiencing these issues.
For more information about the signs you’re dealing with a bad wheel bearing in Flagstaff, AZ, contact an experienced mobile truck repair service like Maclin Truck & Trailer today.