Truck Repair

What are Wheel Bearings and What Causes Their Failure?

 

If you’ve ever heard a loud screeching noise when turning your truck wheel or noticed your truck shaking at high speeds, then you may have a wheel bearing failure. Wheel bearings are essential to the safe operation of your vehicle, and if they fail, they can be dangerous. In this article, we will discuss what wheel bearings are and what causes them to fail.

What are Wheel Bearings?

Wheel bearings are important components of a vehicle’s braking, steering, and suspension systems. It is located between the drive axle and the brake disc or drums. The bearings allow for friction-free rotation of the wheels and help to support the weight of the vehicle. This is the reason why a wheel-bearing failure can be so dangerous. When the bearings fail, it can cause the wheels to become unstable and come off of the vehicle entirely.

There are two types of wheel bearings: tapered and ball. Tapered bearings are the most common type found in passenger vehicles. Ball bearings are more common in commercial vehicles. Both types can fail, but ball bearings are more likely to fail due to the increased weight and stress that they are under. So, if you ever found your truck shaking at high speeds, or making a loud screeching noise when turning, visit a professional for mobile truck repair in Gainesville to get it checked out.

What Causes Wheel Bearings to Fail?

There are a few different reasons why wheel bearings can fail. The most common cause is improper installation. If the bearings are not installed correctly, they can become loose and eventually fall out. This is why it’s so important to have a professional handle the installation. Another common cause of failure is a lack of lubrication. The bearings need to be properly lubricated in order to function correctly, and if they are not, the friction will eventually cause them to wear down and fail.

The last common cause of wheel bearing failure is due to contamination. If the bearings become contaminated with dirt, water, or other debris, it can cause them to fail. This is why it’s so important to keep your bearings clean and to inspect them regularly for any signs of contamination. In addition, it is also important to know how wheel size affects truck performance & ride quality as it can also lead to bearing failure if not done properly.

To Conclude

In short, wheel bearings are a crucial component of the safety and function of your vehicle. When they fail, it can have serious consequences. If you suspect that your wheel bearings may be failing, it is important to have them checked out by a professional as soon as possible. With proper care and maintenance, you can help to extend the life of your wheel bearings and avoid costly repairs down the road.