how to check for a bad wheel bearing on Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017)

Honda Accord Eleventh Generation (2023-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

3 min read

596 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to check for a bad wheel bearing on Honda Accord 9th Generation (2013-2017). Step-by-step diagnostic and repair guide with symptoms and tools required.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and use wheel chocks to prevent rolling.
•Always disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.
•Allow the vehicle to cool before working on brakes to prevent burns.

Symptoms

•Unusual noise such as grinding or humming while driving
•Vibration in the steering wheel or vehicle body
•Uneven tire wear on the affected wheel
•Play in the wheel when inspected for lateral movement
•Increased road noise that changes with vehicle speed
•Steering pulling to one side

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check for any visible damage or rust on the wheel and hub assembly.
2
Jack up the vehicle and inspect for play by gripping the tire at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions and rocking it back and forth.
3
Drive the vehicle at various speeds and listen for any grinding or humming noises that increase with speed.
4
Check the tires for uneven wear patterns which may indicate a bad bearing.
5
With the vehicle raised, spin the wheel and listen for any irregular noises or feel for roughness.

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
•Jack stands
•Lug wrench
•Torque wrench
•Wheel chocks
•Bearing puller
•Bearing press

Parts Required

•Replacement wheel bearing
•Retaining ring (if applicable)
•Brake pads (if worn during inspection)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Check for any visible damage or rust on the wheel and hub assembly.
2
Jack up the vehicle and inspect for play by gripping the tire at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions and rocking it back and forth.
3
Drive the vehicle at various speeds and listen for any grinding or humming noises that increase with speed.
4
Check the tires for uneven wear patterns which may indicate a bad bearing.
5
With the vehicle raised, spin the wheel and listen for any irregular noises or feel for roughness.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench, torque wrench, wheel chocks.
Safety Warnings: Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and use wheel chocks to prevent rolling.

2. Raise the Vehicle

Use a jack to lift the front or rear of the vehicle depending on the suspected bad wheel bearing.
Place jack stands under the vehicle to secure it.

3. Remove the Wheel

Using a lug wrench, loosen the lug nuts of the wheel.
Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

4. Inspect the Wheel Bearing

For Front Bearings: Check the bearing by removing the brake caliper and rotor (if necessary).
- Disconnect the caliper from the bracket and support it with a wire or rope.
- Remove the rotor to expose the bearing.
For Rear Bearings: Remove the brake drum or rotor to access the bearing directly.
Check for any signs of wear, including pitting or roughness.

5. Replace the Bearing (if necessary)

If the bearing is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
Remove the retaining ring (if applicable) and use a bearing puller to extract the bearing from the hub.
Press in the new bearing using a bearing press, ensuring it is seated properly.
Reassemble all components in the reverse order of disassembly.

6. Reinstall the Wheel

Place the wheel back on the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and then torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications (typically 80-100 ft-lbs for Honda Accord).