How hard is it to replace wheel bearings? I've never tried it. I've done plugs, headers, rotors and pads on my car to give an idea of my mechanical ability. I'd like to do this myself instead of taking it in to get it done. Also, can anyone hook me up with a part number? I can't find it on acuraoemparts.com. It's for the front right wheel.

Thanks

 

In most cases you need special tools to press out the old bearing and press the new one in once you repack it. Many cars require a special tool just for that make. I'm not sure if Acura requires a special tool. If they don't then you can likely rent one from a local auto parts store. Still a bit of a pain in the ass. I'd just pay someone to do it but I get a big discount at my local shop.

 

the wheel bearing is a sealed unit. you cannot pack them with grease. i looked on acraoem parts a little earlier for one. i did not see one listed.
i bought mine at advanced autoparts for around $35. i actually have my car up on my dads lift right now with the front end pulled apart because the passenger wheelbearing failed after only 22k miles.
ball joints seem to be the hardest thing to get apart for me. other than that, it only takes about 20-30 minutes to pull the hub assembly loose from the car. you have to go to a maching shop to get the bearing pressed in though.

 

What exactly is the job of the wheel bearing? what's it's purpose?

 

Reduce vibrations, noise and most cases make it easier for the wheels to spin.

 

What are the symptoms of it? Vibration during acceleration? vibration during cruising?

 

Not quite sure.. if you want to see if yours is going out, put your cars front end in the air and spin the wheels. See if it feels smooth or if theres any awkward noises like it doesnt sound lubricated.

 

So you have to remove the ball joints to get to them? Why do you have to take it to a machine shop to get the bearing in but not to remove it?

 

Most common symptoms are noise/humming

Yes, you have to remove the knuckle, and to do that you have to separate it from the upper and lower ball joints. You will need to press the old out and new one in.

 

have you ever rode in a truck with big mud tires that roar? if your car makes that roaring sound, it's a wheelbearing.