Is It Time For A Brake Service?

Posted on: 14 March 2023

Wheel bearings are essential components of your vehicle that keep the wheels rotating smoothly. When they become faulty, it can lead to many problems and even dangerous driving conditions. That's why it's important to recognize signs of wheel bearing issues so you can get them serviced as soon as possible.

What Is The Risk When Driving?

Driving with faulty wheel bearings can lead to a number of risks and safety concerns for drivers. Here are some of the most common issues associated with this condition:

• Increased risk of axle failure: Poorly maintained wheel bearings can weaken the entire axle assembly, leading to potential difficulty in controlling the vehicle when turning at high speed or travelling over uneven terrain.
• Uneven tyre wear: Faulty wheel bearings can cause an increase in friction between the wheels and the road surface, leading to premature tyre wear over time.
• Reduced handling capability: Faulty wheel bearings can reduce suspension control, making it harder for the driver to maintain control while driving. This could make cornering more difficult and increase the risk of causing a collision.
• Loss of fuel efficiency: Drag caused by faulty wheel bearings leads to increased fuel consumption due to additional friction on the roads. This adds up over time and can prove costly for drivers.

Symptoms Of Bad Wheel Bearings

The first and most obvious symptom of failing wheel bearings is noise. If you hear loud grinding or squeaking noises coming from your car's wheels, this could indicate that the wheel bearing is not functioning properly. This problem usually worsens with an increase in speed, so pay close attention if you experience any changes in sound when driving faster. Keep in mind, though, that some sounds may come from other sources, like brakes, so have a qualified mechanic look at it for a definitive diagnosis.

Besides noise, other indicators can point to faulty wheel bearings. Poor suspension control on one or more wheels is another sign. If you feel extra drag on one side while driving straight or around a corner, this might indicate trouble with the wheel bearings. This drag causes additional friction, leading to higher fuel consumption.

It's also important to check for signs of leaking grease near the axle area where the bearing is housed. Any traces of grease can indicate damage or wear from extended use and should be investigated further by a professional mechanic. Additionally, vibrations could indicate that something isn't quite right — again, having a professional look into this would be best to ensure proper diagnosis and repair work.

What To Do Next

When dealing with faulty wheel bearings, prevention is always better than cure. If you start noticing any symptoms early on, then take your vehicle to a mechanic for car repairs as soon as possible. Doing so will save you time and money down the line and allow you to drive safely with minimal risk.