Know the Causes and Characteristics of Broken Car Wheel Bearings!

In the automotive world, there are many components that often get the spotlight, such as a powerful engine, a sophisticated braking system, or a charming exterior design. However, there is one component that may often be overlooked but plays a very important role in the safety and performance of our vehicles: wheel bearings.

While they may seem simple, wheel bearings are one of the most vital parts in a vehicle’s wheel system. They are the link between the wheel and the wheel axle, allowing the wheel to rotate smoothly and stably as the vehicle moves. Without these components functioning properly, driving safety and comfort can be compromised.

In this  TransTRACK article, we will explore more about wheel bearings: what they are, how they work, signs of damage, and the importance of keeping these components in optimal condition. Also, we will see how the application of technology in vehicle maintenance systems, such as TransTRACK’s Vehicle Maintenance System, can help ensure that wheel bearings and other components are always at their best. Let’s start by understanding the important role these components play in the safety and performance of our vehicles.

What are Wheel Bearings

Wheel bearings are an important component in a vehicle’s wheel system. It is the part that allows the wheel to rotate smoothly around its axis. This component usually consists of inner and outer rings made of a hard material such as steel or metal, as well as a cylindrical ball or roller between them. These balls or rollers reduce friction between the inner and outer rings, allowing the wheel to rotate with little or no resistance.

Wheel bearings are usually placed between the wheel and the wheel axle or transmission shaft to support heavy loads and ensure smooth, stable motion. They are often exposed to considerable stress as they have to handle the weight of the vehicle and various road conditions. Therefore, these components must be regularly maintained and replaced to keep the vehicle operating efficiently and safely. Damage to wheel bearings can lead to handling issues, squeaking noises, or even wheel failure.

Causes of Damaged Wheel Bearings

The causes of damaged wheel bearings can vary, and some of them include:

Incorrect component installation

When these components are installed in an improper manner or using unsuitable components, it can cause uneven pressure or excessive load on the bearings, which can ultimately result in wear or damage.

Poor road quality

When a vehicle frequently traverses poor, bumpy, or pothole-ridden roads, these components can be subjected to excessive stress and shock. This can lead to faster wear on these components.

Poor quality wheel bearings

Low-quality or worn wheel bearings can be a contributing factor to damage to this component. Worn bearings can cause uneven load on the wheel bearings and lead to faster wear.

Frequent driving through muddy or flooded areas

The ingress of water, mud, or dirt into these components can cause corrosion or wear on their internal parts. This can damage the lubricant or even cause the wheel bearings to fail.

Car modifications

Extensive modifications to a vehicle’s suspension or wheel system can change the geometry and loads acting on these components. If not done properly, such modifications can cause uneven stress or excessive stress on these components, which can ultimately damage them.

It is important to pay attention to regular maintenance and replacement of these components to prevent unwanted damage and ensure the safety and optimal performance of the vehicle.

Characteristics of Damaged Wheel Bearings

Signs that wheel bearings may be damaged or having problems include:

Problematic braking

If this component is damaged, it can affect the vehicle’s braking performance. You may feel unusual vibrations or abnormalities when braking, such as excessive vibration or difficulty in stopping the vehicle. This could be because the damaged bearing cannot support the wheel properly, causing braking stability to be compromised.

Sounds in the tires or engine

Rattling, squeaking, or creaking sounds coming from the wheels or engine can be a sign of damaged wheel bearings. These sounds often occur when the vehicle is moving, especially at higher speeds, and may become more pronounced when making turns.

Vibration felt in the steering wheel

Unusual or unnatural vibrations felt in the steering wheel can be a sign that this component is experiencing problems. This vibration can occur especially when driving at certain speeds or when performing maneuvers, such as turning.

ABS light starts to have problems

As damaged wheel bearings can affect the performance of the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) system, the ABS warning light on the vehicle’s instrument panel may illuminate or indicate a problem. The ABS system uses sensors in each wheel to detect wheel speed, and if these components are damaged, the sensors may not be able to function properly, triggering the warning light.

If you experience any or several of the above characteristics, it is important to have your vehicle checked by a repair shop immediately for proper diagnosis and necessary repairs. Damage to these components can affect driving safety, so they should not be ignored.

In vehicle maintenance, it is important not to overlook components that may seem small, but have a huge impact on safety and overall performance. One component that is often overlooked is wheel bearings. Despite their small size, they play a vital role in keeping your vehicle’s wheels turning smoothly and stably.

Identifying the signs of damage to this component can be an important first step to ensuring the safety and efficiency of your vehicle. However, to ensure proper maintenance at the right time, you can rely on a reliable vehicle maintenance system like TransTRACK’s Vehicle Maintenance System.

With the TransTRACK Vehicle Maintenance System, you can easily keep track of periodic maintenance schedules for wheel bearings and other components. The system provides automatic reminders and notifications when it’s time for maintenance or replacement, ensuring that your vehicle is always in top condition.

Don’t let damaged wheel bearings interfere with your driving comfort and safety. Get the TransTRACK Vehicle Maintenance System now and keep your vehicle in its best condition.