how to tell if the wheel bearings are bad on Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

3 min read

600 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix bad wheel bearings on Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solutions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands to support the vehicle when working underneath it.
•Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.

Symptoms

•Unusual noise from the wheel area (grinding or humming)
•Vibration felt in the steering wheel or vehicle body
•Loose or wobbly wheel when checked for play
•Uneven tire wear
•ABS warning light illuminated (in some cases)

Diagnostic Steps

1
Conduct a visual inspection of the wheel bearings and surrounding components for signs of wear or damage.
2
Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
3
Spin the wheel by hand to listen for any unusual noises or resistance.
4
Check for wheel play by grabbing the tire at the 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock positions and trying to rock it back and forth.
5
Test drive the vehicle and listen for noises that increase with speed or when turning.
6
Use a stethoscope or similar tool to listen to the hub area while the vehicle is in motion to pinpoint noise source.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Jack and jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Hub puller
•Brake cleaner
•Grease

Parts Required

•New wheel bearings
•New hub assembly (if needed)
•Brake pads (if worn)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Conduct a visual inspection of the wheel bearings and surrounding components for signs of wear or damage.
2
Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
3
Spin the wheel by hand to listen for any unusual noises or resistance.
4
Check for wheel play by grabbing the tire at the 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock positions and trying to rock it back and forth.
5
Test drive the vehicle and listen for noises that increase with speed or when turning.
6
Use a stethoscope or similar tool to listen to the hub area while the vehicle is in motion to pinpoint noise source.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather necessary tools and parts for replacement.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface with the parking brake engaged.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal.

2. Raise the Vehicle

Use a jack to lift the vehicle and place jack stands for safety.
Remove the wheel using a socket set.

3. Remove the Brake Components

Remove the brake caliper by unscrewing the caliper bolts (torque specifications: usually 20-30 ft-lbs, check manufacturer specifications).
Secure the caliper to the suspension with a wire to avoid strain on the brake line.
Remove the brake rotor by removing any retaining screws or bolts.

4. Remove the Wheel Bearing

Remove the hub assembly retaining nut using a torque wrench (typically 150-200 ft-lbs).
Use a hub puller to detach the hub from the steering knuckle if necessary.
Carefully pull the wheel bearing out of the knuckle, ensuring not to damage the surrounding components.

5. Install New Wheel Bearing

Clean the hub assembly area and apply a light coat of grease if required.
Press the new wheel bearing into the steering knuckle using a bearing press.
Reattach the hub assembly by reversing the removal steps, ensuring all connections are secure and properly torqued.

6. Reinstall Brake Components and Wheel

Reinstall the brake rotor and caliper, securing with bolts to the specified torque.
Replace the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts before lowering the vehicle.
Once lowered, torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications (usually 80-100 ft-lbs).