how to check and replace wheel bearings on Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

high

Severity

4 min read

705 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 and replace wheel bearings on a 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and tools required.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when working under the vehicle.
•Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and the transmission is in park.

Symptoms

•Grinding or humming noise while driving, especially when turning
•Vibration felt through the steering wheel or floorboards
•Uneven tire wear on the affected wheel(s)
•Play or looseness in the wheel when grasped at the top and bottom
•ABS warning light illuminated (in some cases)

Diagnostic Steps

1
Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
2
Remove the wheel and inspect the brake rotor and caliper for any signs of damage or wear.
3
Grasp the wheel at the 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock positions and attempt to rock it; check for any play.
4
Spin the wheel and listen for any abnormal noises indicative of bearing failure.
5
Inspect the wheel hub assembly visually for signs of grease leakage or corrosion.

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
•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Hammer
•Bearing puller (if needed)
•Grease

Parts Required

•New wheel bearings
•Hub assembly (if necessary)

Related Faults

Share this solution

Comments

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation

Diagnostic Steps

1
Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
2
Remove the wheel and inspect the brake rotor and caliper for any signs of damage or wear.
3
Grasp the wheel at the 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock positions and attempt to rock it; check for any play.
4
Spin the wheel and listen for any abnormal noises indicative of bearing failure.
5
Inspect the wheel hub assembly visually for signs of grease leakage or corrosion.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required:
- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Socket set
- Torque wrench
- Hammer
- Bearing puller (if needed)
- Grease
Safety Warnings:
- Always use jack stands when working under the vehicle.
- Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and the transmission is in park.

2. Remove Wheel and Brake Components

Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts slightly before lifting the vehicle.
Jack up the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
Completely remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
Remove the brake caliper by unbolting it from the bracket. Suspend it using a wire hanger to avoid stress on the brake line.
Take off the brake rotor.

3. Remove the Hub Assembly

If applicable, remove the dust cover from the hub assembly to access the wheel bearing.
Remove the axle nut using the appropriate socket. This may require a breaker bar for additional leverage.
Unbolt the hub assembly from the knuckle, taking care to note the positions and orientations of any bolts.
Gently pull the hub assembly away from the knuckle. If it’s stuck, tap it lightly with a hammer to free it.

4. Inspect and Replace the Wheel Bearing

Remove the old wheel bearing from the hub assembly using a bearing puller if necessary.
Clean the hub assembly and inspect for wear or damage.
Press the new wheel bearing into the hub assembly using a press or hammer with a suitable adapter to avoid damage.
Apply a thin layer of grease to the bearing and the hub surface.

5. Reassemble Components

Reattach the hub assembly to the knuckle, bolt it back in place, and torque to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Reinstall the axle nut and torque to the specified value.
Place the brake rotor back onto the hub assembly.
Reattach the brake caliper and ensure it’s secured properly.
Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts initially.

6. Lower the Vehicle and Final Torque

Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground.
Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications in a star pattern.