This article tackles three prevalent 350z wheel bearing issues. We’ll cover diagnosing noises, understanding replacement processes, and offering some insider tips from my own experiences wrenching on these cars.
Pinpointing the source of a noise coming from your 350z’s wheel area can be tricky. The first step is to understand the common symptoms of a failing wheel bearing. These often manifest as a humming, grinding, or clicking sound that increases with speed.
- Listen Carefully: The noise will usually become more pronounced when turning. A failing driver’s side wheel bearing will often be louder when turning right (loading the left side of the car), and vice-versa.
- Road Test: Find an empty stretch of road and listen closely. Note the speed at which the noise becomes audible. Does it change pitch or volume when you swerve slightly left and right?
- In-Car Test (Jack Stands): Safely jack up each corner of the car and secure it with jack stands. Spin each wheel by hand. A bad wheel bearing will often feel rough or gritty, and you might even hear the noise. This is the most reliable method.
Important safety note: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Differentiating Wheel Bearing Noise from Other Issues
Sometimes, what sounds like a wheel bearing is actually something else entirely.
- Tires: Uneven tire wear or aggressive tread patterns can produce a humming noise that mimics a wheel bearing. Rotate your tires and see if the sound changes or disappears.
- Brakes: Worn brake pads or warped rotors can create squealing or grinding noises. Inspect your brakes thoroughly. A dragging brake caliper can also cause heat and noise, so check for that as well.
- Differential: A failing differential can also produce a humming or roaring sound, especially at higher speeds. This noise is often more constant and doesn’t change as drastically when turning as a wheel bearing would.
Replacing a 350z wheel bearing requires some specialized tools and knowledge. It’s generally not a beginner-level DIY job, but with patience and the right resources, it can be done.
- Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a hub puller, bearing separator, hydraulic press (essential), socket set, torque wrench, penetrating oil, and safety glasses. Don’t skimp on quality – a good hub puller is worth its weight in gold.
- Remove the Hub Assembly: This usually involves removing the brake caliper, rotor, and any other components that are in the way. Soak everything in penetrating oil beforehand to loosen rusted bolts.
- Press Out the Old Bearing: This is where the hydraulic press comes in. Carefully support the hub assembly and use the bearing separator to push out the old bearing. Make sure everything is aligned correctly to avoid damaging the hub.
- Press In the New Bearing: Clean the hub thoroughly and apply a thin layer of grease to the bearing bore. Carefully press in the new bearing, ensuring it’s seated fully and squarely. Use the correct adapters to avoid damaging the new bearing.
- Reassemble Everything: Reinstall the hub assembly, brake components, and torque everything to the manufacturer’s specifications. A torque wrench is crucial for ensuring proper bearing preload and preventing premature failure.
- Torque Specs: Be sure to use correct torque specs, consult your 350z repair manual.
- Wheel Bearing Kit Selection: Choose reputable brands (Timken, SKF, Koyo) for longer life. Cheap bearings often fail prematurely.
A Personal Perspective on DIY vs. Professional Install
I’ve replaced wheel bearings on my 350z both myself and by taking it to a professional. While DIY saves money, the hassle of dealing with rusted components and the need for specialized tools (especially the press) made me realize that sometimes, paying a professional is worth it. If you live in an area with lots of road salt, expect a fight getting things apart.
Beyond the basics, there are a few things I’ve learned over the years that can extend the life of your 350z’s wheel bearings.
- Avoid Potholes and Rough Roads: This is obvious, but hitting potholes hard can damage wheel bearings.
- Proper Wheel Alignment: Misalignment puts extra stress on the wheel bearings. Get your car aligned regularly, especially after lowering or modifying the suspension.
- Don’t Over-Tighten Lug Nuts: Overtightening lug nuts can warp the hub and put undue stress on the wheel bearings. Use a torque wrench and tighten to the correct specification.
- Check for Play Regularly: Jack up each wheel and try to wiggle it. If you feel any play, it could indicate a worn wheel bearing or other suspension component.
- Lubrication During Install: Apply a thin film of anti-seize compound to the hub bore before pressing in the new bearing. This will help prevent corrosion and make future replacements easier.
Choosing the Right 350z Wheel Bearing Kit
Not all wheel bearing kits are created equal. Consider the following factors when choosing a kit:
- Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable brands like Timken, SKF, or Koyo. These brands are known for their quality and durability.
- Completeness: Does the kit include all the necessary hardware, such as seals, snap rings, and cotter pins?
- Reviews: Read online reviews from other 350z owners to see what their experiences have been with different kits.
| Feature | Timken | SKF | Koyo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | Excellent, known for long lifespan | Excellent, suitable for performance use | Very Good, reliable OEM supplier |
| Price | Typically mid-range to higher end | Typically mid-range to higher end | Generally more budget-friendly |
| Availability | Widely available | Widely available | Available, but sometimes less common |
| Application | Suitable for daily driving and track | Suitable for daily driving and track | Ideal for daily driving |
Why Maintaining Your 350z Wheel Bearing Is Important
Neglecting your wheel bearings can lead to more than just annoying noises. A severely damaged wheel bearing can cause wheel wobble, loss of control, and even wheel separation, which can be catastrophic. Regular inspection and timely replacement can prevent these dangerous situations.
Diagnosing and dealing with 350z wheel bearing issues doesn’t have to be a headache. Understanding the symptoms, replacement process, and preventative measures can save you time, money, and potential danger. From my experience, investing in quality parts and taking your time with the repair will pay off in the long run. And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Your 350z will thank you for it.
According to Wikipedia, wheel bearing failure can lead to significant safety risks. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheel_bearing
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding 350z wheel bearings:
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