The persistent hum, the rhythmic clicking that gets louder with speed – these are telltale signs of a failing wheel bearing on your 2018 Ford F-150. Don’t ignore these warning signs. A neglected wheel bearing can lead to bigger problems, including uneven tire wear, damage to other suspension components, and, in extreme cases, wheel separation. This article dives deep into diagnosing, replacing, and understanding your 2018 F-150 wheel bearings, saving you time, money, and potential headaches. We will explore practical methods, share insights gleaned from years of experience working on these trucks, and offer solutions you won’t find in your average repair manual.
One of the most common indicators of a failing wheel bearing is noise. This noise typically changes with vehicle speed. However, diagnosing the exact source and side can be tricky.
- The Noise Test: Find a quiet stretch of road and listen carefully while driving straight. Then, gently swerve the truck from side to side. If the noise intensifies when you turn in one direction, the wheel bearing on the opposite side is likely the culprit. This is because turning shifts the vehicle’s weight, placing more load on the outer wheel bearing.
- The Visual Inspection: Safely lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Grab the tire at the 12 and 6 o’clock positions and try to rock it back and forth. Excessive play indicates a worn wheel bearing. Also, spin the wheel and listen for any grinding or roughness. A healthy wheel bearing should spin smoothly and quietly.
- Check for ABS Issues: Wheel bearings often house the ABS sensor. A failing wheel bearing can disrupt the sensor’s signal, triggering the ABS warning light on your dashboard. Don’t automatically assume it’s just the ABS sensor; investigate the wheel bearing as well.
Having the right tools is crucial for a successful wheel bearing replacement. This job can be completed by a home mechanic, but does require precision and some specialized tools. Don’t skimp on quality – cheap tools can break and make the job much harder.
- Socket Set: Including deep sockets, especially the large socket required for the axle nut.
- Torque Wrench: Absolutely essential for tightening the axle nut to the correct specification (usually around 184 ft-lbs). Overtightening can damage the bearing, and undertightening can lead to premature failure.
- Hammer and Punch: For dislodging stubborn components.
- Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly Puller: This is a MUST-HAVE tool. Trying to remove the hub assembly without it is often a frustrating and damaging experience.
- Penetrating Oil: Generously apply to any rusted or corroded bolts and components. Let it soak in for at least 30 minutes before attempting to loosen them.
- New Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly: Ensure you purchase the correct part for your specific 2018 F-150 configuration (2WD, 4WD, trim level).
- New Axle Nut: Always replace the axle nut. They are often designed for single use and can lose their clamping force if reused.
This is a general overview; consult your vehicle’s repair manual for specific instructions and torque specifications. Always prioritize safety and wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Loosen the Lug Nuts: Before lifting the vehicle, loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on.
- Lift and Secure the Vehicle: Jack up the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
- Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and the wheel.
- Remove the Brake Caliper: Unbolt the brake caliper and carefully remove it. Support it with a wire hanger or bungee cord to avoid straining the brake hose.
- Remove the Brake Rotor: Slide the brake rotor off the hub assembly.
- Remove the Axle Nut: This nut is typically very tight. Use a breaker bar and the correct size socket to loosen it. You may need to use a penetrating oil and let it soak in for a while.
- Disconnect ABS Wire: Disconnect the ABS sensor wire from its clips and remove it from the hub assembly.
- Remove the Hub Assembly: This is where the wheel bearing hub assembly puller comes in. Attach the puller to the hub assembly and use it to press the hub assembly out of the steering knuckle. It may take some force, but it should eventually come loose.
- Clean the Mating Surfaces: Thoroughly clean the mating surfaces on the steering knuckle. Remove any rust, corrosion, or debris.
- Install the New Hub Assembly: Carefully align the new hub assembly with the steering knuckle and press it into place. You may need to use the wheel bearing hub assembly puller to help with installation.
- Reinstall Everything in Reverse Order: Reinstall the ABS sensor, axle nut (torque to the correct specification!), brake rotor, brake caliper, and wheel.
- Lower the Vehicle and Torque the Lug Nuts: Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to the correct specification.
- Test Drive: Take the vehicle for a test drive and listen for any unusual noises.
Having worked on countless F-150s, I’ve learned a few tricks that aren’t always found in repair manuals.
- The Frozen Axle Nut: One of the biggest challenges is dealing with a rusted and seized axle nut. Don’t waste time trying to muscle it off with brute force. Apply penetrating oil repeatedly over several hours, and use a heat gun (sparingly!) to help loosen the corrosion. Impact sockets are highly recommended here.
- The ABS Sensor Nightmare: The ABS sensor can sometimes become fused to the hub assembly. If it won’t budge, don’t force it. You’re better off replacing the sensor along with the hub assembly to avoid damaging the wiring.
- Grease is Your Friend: Apply a thin layer of anti-seize compound to the hub assembly mating surfaces. This will make future removals much easier. Also, pack the new wheel bearing with a high-quality synthetic grease for maximum longevity.
- Torque is Key: I can’t stress enough the importance of using a torque wrench and tightening the axle nut to the correct specification. Too loose, and the bearing will fail prematurely. Too tight, and you’ll damage the bearing races.
- Wheel Speed Sensor: The wheel speed sensor may become corroded to the hub assembly and need replacement. This is normal, so don’t be alarmed if you must replace these components together.
Choosing the right wheel bearing is crucial for performance and longevity. Here’s what to consider:
| Feature | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Brand | SKF, Timken, and Moog are reputable brands known for quality and durability. Avoid no-name brands with suspiciously low prices. |
| Material | Opt for wheel bearings made from high-quality steel alloys. These bearings are better able to withstand the stresses of daily driving. |
| Seals | Ensure the wheel bearing has effective seals to prevent water, dirt, and debris from entering the bearing. |
| Reviews | Read online reviews from other F-150 owners to get an idea of the real-world performance of different wheel bearing brands and models. |
| Application | Confirm the wheel bearing is specifically designed for your 2018 F-150’s drivetrain (2WD or 4WD) and trim level. |
Several factors can contribute to premature wheel bearing failure:
- Impacts: Hitting potholes or curbs can deliver a significant jolt to the wheel bearing, causing damage.
- Improper Installation: Incorrect installation, particularly overtightening the axle nut, is a common cause of early failure.
- Lack of Lubrication: Insufficient lubrication can lead to increased friction and heat, accelerating wear.
- Water and Dirt Contamination: Water and dirt can penetrate the bearing seals, causing corrosion and damage.
- Towing and Heavy Loads: Regularly towing heavy loads puts extra stress on the wheel bearings.
Replacing a wheel bearing yourself can save you a significant amount of money on labor costs. However, it requires the right tools, mechanical skills, and time.
- DIY: The cost of a new wheel bearing hub assembly can range from $100 to $300, depending on the brand and quality. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of any tools you don’t already own.
- Professional Installation: Labor costs can vary widely, but you can expect to pay between $200 and $400 per wheel bearing.
Before deciding whether to DIY or hire a professional, honestly assess your mechanical skills and available time. If you’re not comfortable working on your vehicle or don’t have the necessary tools, it’s best to leave the job to a professional.
Replacing a worn wheel bearing on your 2018 F-150 might seem daunting, but with the right knowledge, tools, and a bit of patience, it’s a manageable DIY project. Remember to diagnose the problem correctly, use quality parts, and follow the correct procedures. By paying attention to detail and heeding the advice shared here, you can restore your truck’s smooth ride and prevent more costly repairs down the road. This article solved 3 problems: Diagnose bad wheel bearing, Replacement wheel bearing, Wheel bearing selection.
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