I have a 2001 Chevy Impala. How can I tell if the wheel bearings are getting bad?

Question

The front drivers side wheel sqeeks pretty bad. I was wondering if maybe my Wheel Bearing need replaced.

Answer 1

The wheel bearing usually would not squeak if it is worn out. They usually make a rotational roar or hum depending on the speed of the vehicle. If they are really bad, you might experience a vibration. These are a pretty tough bearing and unit and have seen lots of them replaced uneccesarily because of improper diagnosis. Best thing to do to diagnose the problem is jack the car up in the area that you think is making the noise. First, try to see if the bearing has play in it which it should have none or very little in it. Do this by grabbing the tire and pulling back and forth. If there is none, rotate the wheel to see if you can feel roughness or hear a squeal. If you hear a squeal, remove the tire and inspect the brakes for being worn out or for something trapped between the rotor, splash guard, or the caliper. Good luck.

Answer 2

If you are making a right hand turn the front driver bearing would squeak louder then if you were traveling straight. Whenever you put more of a load on that corner of the car the bearing tends to squeak louder. It's usually not a constant tone either, if it sounds like it's a circular tone, or whatever you want to call it, then it's probably a bearing. I would get it checked out.

Answer 3

1 roaring noise when driving 2 uneven tire wear 3 jack car 1 rotate listen for grinding noise 2. pull on tire and feel for looseness. 4 .remove dust cap 1 inspect for rust ,and debri. More than likely it needs brakes and low brake pad clip that is suppose to sqeek when pad gets low. some cars you can get a mirror and flashlight and inspect the pads. if your under 3/16 inch replace them

Answer 4

most wheel bearings make a whirring or roaring noise, squeaking is usually an indication of ball joints. Jack the car up and see if you can move the tire side to side without moving the sterring wheel thats a wheel bearing, if you can move it up and down its a ball joint

Answer 5

It sounds like it it the guidance shaft. We lubed them for a together as yet now there is an as much as date layout to maintain it from happening back. one way you are able to verify it particularly is to take it loose on the guidance column and fall down and then boost the shaft numerous situations dispensing the grease interior the splines. Reinstall and notice if noise is decreased or is going away.

Answer 6

a roaring sound