How often do you have to change wheel hub bearings in an Audi?
The average service life of these components is 50,000–70,000 km. In some cases it can be 100,000 km.
You can find out the exact replacement interval in the car owner’s manual. As a rule, the length of service life depends on the quality of the part and on the skills of the specialists who carry out the repair. Operating conditions play an important role as well.
What causes wheel hub bearings to break down in these cars?
These components become faulty for the following reasons:
driving off-road and aggressive driving
overloading of the vehicle
contamination of the assembly
incorrect press-fitting of the components
failure to apply the tightening torque recommended by the car manufacturer when tightening the hub nut
leaking lubricant
Is it alright to drive an Audi with a faulty wheel hub bearing?
No, it isn’t. This component is responsible for the proper rotation of the wheel. The wheel might get stuck while driving if you fail to replace a bad bearing. This situation is extremely dangerous and could cause the vehicle to roll over. It is recommended to examine the unit during each scheduled maintenance.
How do I detect a faulty component?
You can notice that the part is broken through indirect signs such as unusual sounds coming from the assembly and uneven tyre wear. To diagnose it yourself, you’ll have to lift the car and rotate the wheel. If it makes less than 5 turns, if there is play, or if leaking lubricant can be seen, the bearing has to be replaced. For a more thorough examination, visit a garage.
Is it possible to repair wheel hub bearings in an Audi?
It depends on the type. These components can be adjustable or non-adjustable. In the first case, repair is possible: you can adjust the play by tightening the hub nut with a torque wrench. When doing this, it is important to observe the torque specified by the car manufacturer. You can also lubricate the part.
The non-adjustable kind can’t be repaired: if they break down, they have to be replaced. In some vehicles, these components are only installed together with a hub as a single unit. Detailed repair instructions are provided by the car manufacturer.
How do I replace wheel hub bearings in an Audi?
This job should be done by specialists at a garage. The process is quite difficult and requires advanced car repair skills and special tools. For example, you’ll need bearing removal and installation tools and a snap ring removal tool. This procedure usually consists of these steps:
Lifting the car.
Wheel removal.
Removal of the brake disc and caliper.
Disengagement of the tie rod end.
Dismounting of the steering knuckle together with the wheel hub, removal of the wheel hub.
Pressing out the faulty component.
Installation of the new one and assembly in reverse order.
