how to replace wheel bearings on Tesla Model 3 Original (2017-2023)

Tesla Model 3 Highland (2024-present)

Error Codes

3-5 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

4 min read

639 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

Step-by-step guide on how to replace wheel bearings on Tesla Model 3 (2017-2023). Learn symptoms, diagnostic steps, and necessary tools for the repair.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

3-5 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands before working underneath.
•Disconnect the battery before starting electrical work.

Symptoms

•Loud grinding or humming noise while driving
•Vibration in the steering wheel or vehicle body
•Uneven tire wear
•Wheel wobble when driving
•Abnormal play in the wheel when lifted

Diagnostic Steps

1
Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
2
Inspect the wheel for any play by grasping the tire at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions, and shaking it.
3
Spin the wheel to listen for any grinding noises indicating bearing wear.
4
Check for any abnormal tire wear patterns that may indicate alignment or bearing issues.
5
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any related error codes that might indicate issues with the wheel assemblies.

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
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Bearing puller
•Hammer

Parts Required

•New wheel bearings
•Brake rotor (if worn)
•Brake caliper hardware (if needed)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
2
Inspect the wheel for any play by grasping the tire at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions, and shaking it.
3
Spin the wheel to listen for any grinding noises indicating bearing wear.
4
Check for any abnormal tire wear patterns that may indicate alignment or bearing issues.
5
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any related error codes that might indicate issues with the wheel assemblies.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench, socket set, torque wrench, bearing puller, and a hammer.
Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged.
Disconnect the vehicle's 12V battery to prevent any electrical issues.

2. Remove Wheel

Loosen the lug nuts using a lug wrench but do not remove them completely.
Lift the vehicle with a jack and place it securely on jack stands.
Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.

3. Remove Brake Components

Remove the caliper bolts using a socket wrench.
Carefully detach the brake caliper and support it with a bungee cord to avoid stress on the brake line.
Remove the brake rotor by unscrewing any retaining screws (if applicable) or gently tapping it off.

4. Remove Wheel Hub Assembly

Remove any dust caps or covers from the wheel hub assembly.
Unscrew the hub assembly retaining nut using a socket wrench.
Use a bearing puller to extract the wheel hub assembly from the knuckle. If it’s stuck, gently tap it with a hammer to loosen it.

5. Install New Wheel Bearings

Clean the hub and knuckle surfaces to ensure proper seating of the new bearings.
Press the new wheel bearing into the hub assembly using a bearing press or by tapping it in carefully until seated fully.
Install the hub assembly back into the knuckle and torque the retaining nut to the manufacturer's specifications (typically around 150-180 ft-lbs).

6. Reassemble Components

Reattach the brake rotor and secure it with retaining screws (if applicable).
Reinstall the brake caliper and tighten the caliper bolts to the specified torque (usually around 80-90 ft-lbs).
Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

7. Lower Vehicle and Finalize

Lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
Tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque (usually around 100-110 ft-lbs) in a crisscross pattern.
Reconnect the 12V battery and test the vehicle.