Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly Replacement Checklist

This wheel bearing and hub assembly replacement checklist ensures safe and complete wheel bearing service. A failed wheel bearing progresses from noise to rough rolling resistance to complete wheel separation if ignored. Hub-integrated ABS tone rings are damaged during incorrect removal and cause ABS fault codes if installed incorrectly. Wheel bearing axle nut torque is one of the most commonly undertorqued fasteners in automotive service - always use a calibrated torque wrench or impact with to

Industry: Automotive Service
Frequency: Per Bearing Failure / Per Noise Complaint
Estimated Time: 60-90 minutes
Role: ASE A4-Certified Technician / Suspension Specialist
Total Items: 28
Compliance: FMVSS 110 (Wheel and Tire Standards), ASE A4 Suspension and Steering Certification, OEM Wheel Bearing Torque Specifications, ABS System Diagnostic Protocols, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 Lift Safety

Bearing Failure Diagnosis and Confirmation

Confirm bearing failure before disassembly. Noise can originate from multiple sources.

Failed bearing side confirmed by noise change when swerving side to side at highway speed?
Roughness or grinding felt when rotating wheel by hand with vehicle on lift?
Lateral wheel play detected by grasping tire at 12 and 6 and rocking (more than 0.005 inch = failure)?
ABS or wheel speed sensor codes documented if present (indicate tone ring or sensor damage)?
Correct hub assembly with matching bolt pattern, stud count, and ABS tone ring confirmed before starting?

Hub and Bearing Removal

Remove hub assembly without damaging surrounding components.

Axle/spindle nut removed after staking or cotter pin removal with vehicle on ground?
Brake caliper and bracket removed and supported without hanging by brake hose?
Hub mounting bolts removed without stripping threads?
Hub removed without hammering on CV axle shaft (use hub puller if hub is seized to knuckle)?
ABS sensor wire unclipped from bracket and connector disconnected before hub removal?

New Hub Assembly Installation

Install new hub correctly to ensure wheel bearing and ABS function.

Knuckle hub bore cleaned of corrosion and rust before new hub installation?
Hub seated fully and flush against knuckle bore before torquing bolts?
Hub mounting bolts torqued in sequence to OEM specification?
Axle/spindle nut torqued to OEM specification with calibrated torque wrench (typically 150-250 ft-lbs)?
New cotter pin installed or axle nut staked per OEM requirement?

ABS System and Alignment Verification

Verify ABS tone ring and sensor function before returning vehicle.

ABS fault codes cleared and not returning after road test?
ABS warning light not illuminated after service completion and road test?
Wheel alignment recommended after hub replacement (hub replacement can alter camber and toe)?
No bearing noise, grinding, or vibration during road test at all speeds?
Opposite side wheel bearing condition checked and documented?

Documentation and Final Checks

Complete service record and final safety checks.

Wheel lug nuts torqued to specification after wheel installation?
Brake function verified after caliper reinstallation - firm pedal and no dragging?
Hub assembly brand and part number documented on repair order?
Axle nut torque value used documented on repair order?
Warranty terms explained to customer (hub assemblies typically carry 12 month or lifetime warranty)?
Wheel alignment quote provided to customer with explanation of why it is recommended?
Customer advised bearing replacement interval (typically 100,000-150,000 miles for fleet or heavily loaded vehicles)?
Bearing replacement labor time and parts cost documented for warranty tracking?

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Why Use This Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly Replacement Checklist?

This wheel bearing and hub assembly replacement checklist helps automotive service teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for ase a4-certified technician / suspension specialist professionals, this checklist covers 28 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: per bearing failure / per noise complaint.

Ensures compliance with FMVSS 110 (Wheel and Tire Standards), ASE A4 Suspension and Steering Certification, OEM Wheel Bearing Torque Specifications, ABS System Diagnostic Protocols, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 Lift Safety, UK MOT Wheel Bearing Inspection Standards, India CMVR Schedule IV Wheel Hub Requirements. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly Replacement Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 28 inspection items across 5 sections: Bearing Failure Diagnosis and Confirmation, Hub and Bearing Removal, New Hub Assembly Installation, ABS System and Alignment Verification, Documentation and Final Checks. It is designed for automotive service operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per bearing failure / per noise complaint. Each completion takes approximately 60-90 minutes.

Who should use this Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly Replacement Checklist?

This checklist is designed for ASE A4-Certified Technician / Suspension Specialist professionals in the automotive service industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.