The front wheel bearing of your Honda bears the crucial responsibility of holding the front wheels attached to the axle, all while ensuring unobstructed circulation of the wheel with minimal friction.
Apart from smooth operation, bearings also assist in supporting the vehicle’s weight, dampening vibrations while driving, and assisting in precision steering. It also ensures vehicle and driver safety by preventing wheel seizure, maintaining steering stability, optimizing braking performance, and assisting in ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and TC (Traction Control) functionality.
Upon a malfunction in the front wheel bearings, the vehicle exhibits the following malfunction signs;
- Growling, grinding, or humming sounds during driving with acceleration or when turning. When the damage becomes severe, the sound becomes metallic grinding.
- Loose steering or excessive vibrations in the steering wheel whenever the vehicle is accelerated.
- Uneven tire wear is also another sign of front wheel bearing replacement in Honda.
- Illumination of the ABS warning light.
Causes Behind the Front Wheel Bearing Damage in Honda
Wear and Tear
Just like any other moving part, the bearings of the front wheel in the Honda also have a certain lifespan. Periodic movements throughout the years and thousands of miles slowly erode the bearings, causing malfunction.
Road impact
Sudden and forceful impact from obstacles on the roads, such as potholes, curbs, and other road debris, causes the bearing to face extreme force within a fraction of a second. This causes the bearing housing or bearings to crack or break, resulting in damage to the front wheel bearing.
Contamination
The bearing is a continuously moving component, and it is sealed with lubricants for protection purposes. However, if the housing is damaged or the seal is broken, then dust, dirt, and metal particles enter the bearing and contaminate it. This causes increased friction in the bearing, accelerating the corrosion of the internal components.
Aggressive driving
Aggressive driving causes the bearings to move more than they would in their regular calibration. This accelerates the wearing of the bearing and causes it to fail prematurely.
Replacement of Front Wheel in Marlborough
Similar to any other vehicle component, the replacement of a damaged front wheel bearing starts with a diagnostic inspection to assess the damage, its point of origin, and its subsequent damage to other components. The vehicle was first taken for a test drive to understand the degree of damage to the bearings. After that, the spin test is performed on the wheel to confirm the damaged wheel. An overall visual inspection is also conducted to identify physical damage, including cracks and breakage.
To replace the bearing on the front wheel, Honda’s brake and suspension systems need to be removed. Then, the wheel is carefully removed from the axle rod. Then, using a bearing removal tool kit or a hydraulic press, the damaged bearing is removed. Special care is taken to prevent damage to the steering knuckles. Then, the steering knuckles, where the new bearings will be installed, are thoroughly cleaned. Using a special press, the new bearing is placed on the steering knuckle. Finally, reassemble the removed components and the module.
Secondary damages such as tire wear, brake wear, etc. These components are also addressed as they need to be in peak condition. The tires are rotated and the wheels are aligned. Then the control unit is reset to erase any error codes and function properly.
Top Shop in Marlborough for Front Wheel Bearing Replacement in Honda
If you observe the above signs of bearing damage in the front wheel of your Honda, consult a trained technician to resolve this issue and ensure your safety. Professional Automotive is the top repair shop in the Marlborough area for auto repair and maintenance services, where you can get the best quality repair for your Honda front wheel bearing damage.
Our shop employs expert and experienced technicians who, for years, have been working with Asian import brands, such as Honda. They have the latest factory training and are capable of repairing various vehicle brands, including domestic, Asian Imports, and European auto brands.
Our shop also features top-of-the-line repair tools, a factory-grade scanner, and brand-specific software, which provide accurate diagnoses for any complex issue. We use OWM-made parts and manufacturer-specific fluids for all our repair and maintenance services. We stand by our work by providing our customers with a 2-year/24,000-mile warranty on both parts and labor. Most of our repairs have a same-day turnaround time, and while your vehicle is being repaired, you can avail yourself of a loaner from our fleet. Since 1994, we have been assisting the auto owners and drivers in repair and maintenance services in Marlborough City and its surrounding cities, including Hudson, Northborough, Southborough, Sudbury, Westborough, Stow, Bolton, Berlin, and Framingham.
