My friend, Jimmy, just got a wheel bearing for his car and I thought he had got the best wheel bearing of our time. Unfortunately, Jimmy was unlucky to get one of the fake bearings inundating the market right now. It had a defective size spacer and looked like it was produced from cheap metal. It failed after some days to the time it was fitted.
This prompted me to research the best quality around so that it’ll be easier for you to pick your own. You wouldn’t want to find yourself in the same shoes as Jimmy, hence, you need to be very careful before parting with your hard-earned money.
This article contains an analysis of the top 10 wheel bearings that have been properly analyzed and tested. You will also get access to information on what to look for, the advantages and disadvantages of each of them, brands to go for and avoid, frequently asked questions, and so on.
Top 10 Best Wheel Bearing Comparison Table
| Image | Product | Front/ Rear |
Lugs |
Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Detroit Axle Wheel Bearing (Editor’s Choice) |
Front Wheel |
6 Bolts | Check Price |
|
Moog Wheel Bearing+Hub (Editor’s Choice) |
Front Wheel | 6 Bolts |
Check Price |
|
Timken Wheel Bearing | Front Wheel | 6 Bolts |
Check Price |
|
Dorman Axle Bearing +Hub | Front Wheel | 6 Bolts |
Check Price |
|
Timken Hub+Wheel Bearing | Front Wheel |
8 Bolts |
Check Price |
|
Prime Choice Auto Parts Wheel Hub+bearing |
Front Wheel | 5 Bolts |
|
|
OTC Hub Grappler Kit | Hub Grappler Kit | Any | |
|
LED Kingdomus Wheel Bearing+Hub | Front Wheel | 6 Bolts |
|
|
ECCPP Wheel Hub+Bearing | Front Wheel |
5 Bolts | |
|
Timken Axle Bearing+Hub | Front Wheel |
6 Bolts |
Our 10 Picks of Best Wheel Bearing
After painstaking research, we have come up with the 10 best wheel bearings for you. Our analysis is based on objectivity, third-party recommendations as well as other parameters. Enjoy!
1. Detroit Axle Front Driver & Passenger Side Wheel Hub and Bearing Assembly 515036
Detroit Axle wheel hubs are produced to surpass standards so that an ideal driving experience can be achieved. This was not compromised during the production of Detroit Axle Front Driver & Passenger Side Wheel Hub and Bearing Assembly 515036.
The product is a perfect choice for you if the quality is your watchword. It comes with a 3-bolt flange and 6 lug application. It’s produced in a facility with ISO9002 certification and this is an indication that it’s manufactured to standard and specifications.
It’s compatible with many vehicle brands including 2002-2006 Cadillac Escalade AWD, 2003-2006 Cadillac Escalade ESV, 2002-2006 Cadillac Escalade EXT, 2002-2006 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 4WD, 2003-2013 Chevrolet Express 1500 AWD, 2003-2013 GMC Savana 1500 AWD, 1999-2006 GMC Sierra 1500 4WD/AWD, 2001-2006 GMC Yukon 4WD/AWD and so on.
Highlighted Benefits
- Made from high quality materials.
- Easy to install.
- Compatible with various vehicle make and models.
- Has 3-bolt flange.
- Comes with 6 lug applications.
Potential Flaws
- May not last long but it’s cheap..
Bottom Line
The high compatibility rate of Detroit Axle Front Driver & Passenger Side Wheel Hub and Bearing Assembly 515036 makes it fit for nearly everybody. You can try it to know what it offers.
2. MOOG 515036 Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly
This product is produced to specifications so that you will be able to have access to a perfect wheel bearing and hub assembly. It comes with a cutting-edge roll form design so that optimal preload and consistency can be achieved.
You will also find the ABS molded shield and socket connections which are essential for preventing contamination and facilitating longer life.
Furthermore, the MOOG 515036 Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly is manufactured with an abrasion-resistant ABS cord so that abrasion resistance can be increased. It’ll also ensure that the system is protected against unfavorable conditions. The superior quad lip seal is in place to ensure that there is maximum protection for the system.
Its production process is well-controlled so that a precise matching of the bearing pathway is achieved. The rolling elements are fixed in such a way that vibration and noise are minimized so that a constant superior performance will be achieved.
The wheel and bolts are adequately coated so that corrosion and rust will be forestalled.
Highlighted Benefits
- Comes with an abrasion-resistant ABS cord.
- Produced to deliver reliable, smooth performance.
- Wheel stud bolts are properly coated.
- Produced with innovative roll form design.
- Comes with an ABS molded shield.
Potential Flaws
- The ABS Sensor may fail after some months.
Bottom Line
Due to the cutting-edge roll form design used to produce MOOG 515036 Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly, it’s a product that can be considered. Also, since the pricing is not on the high side, you can give it a try.
3. Timken SP500301 Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly
The Timken SP500301 Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly comes with an active sensor that ensures that the factory-like status of your automobile is brought back. It’s produced from superior materials so that durability and accurate fit will be guaranteed.
As a market leader, Timken is dedicated to the creation of products of high quality.
Timken SP500301 Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly is specially designed to reduce friction and handle load effectively. It’s produced with materials of high quality so that it can be durable. It’s highly resistant to corrosion because of the provision of special coatings.
You will also find a specially designed seal that helps in enhancing lubrication and preventing contamination. It also comes with shield and seal configurations which will go a long way in protecting the internal bearing units and contain lubricants.
Your braking performance will be enhanced because of the low runout which will ensure that vibration and noise are reduced. In addition, the Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly has premium seals that are designed to assist in the prevention of damage during installation.
The seals also provide improved protection so that the bearing life can be extended while enhanced durability will be achieved. The superior bearings ensure that fuel efficiency and durability are enhanced.
Highlighted Benefits
- Cutting-edge sensor technology for monitoring wheel speed.
- Manufactured from alloy steel of high quality for enhanced durability and strength.
- Reduces friction and handles load efficiently.
- Sustains an ideal bearing setting.
- Premium seals ensure that there is no damage during installation.
Potential Flaws
- Packaging needs to be improved to prevent breakage, especially of the sensor housing.
Bottom Line
Timken is a name to be reckoned with in auto parts manufacturing. The company has been churning out so many quality products for years and its SP500301 Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly is your best bet if you are thinking about effecting a change.
4. Dorman 950-001 Axle Bearing and Hub Assembly
Dorman Products Inc. is well known for the creation of products of high quality. The company has earned
Dorman Products Inc. is well known for the creation of products of high quality. The company has earned credence for over 30 years for providing replacement parts for the automobile industry.
They have excelled in the industry due to their ability to combine expertise with great innovation to give out products that may not be easily available economically.
Dorman’s 950-001 Axle Bearing and Hub Assembly is a vital unit of your wheel assembly. It comes with compact steel construction and is tested for proper fit as well as long-lasting performance.
Dorman ensures that its products are tested for quality, dimensional checks, hardness, and material testing so that reliable products are released to the market.
Installing Dorman’s 950-001 Axle Bearing and Hub Assembly is as easy as ABC. The bearings will only press into the hubs and you are good to go. It’s not expensive as you don’t need to break the bank before replacing your bearing and hub assembly.
Highlighted Benefits
- Produced from materials of high quality to ensure extended durability.
- Fabricated to rigorous engineering quality specifications..
- Replacement leads to the elimination of noise connected with the initial failure.
- Not expensive.
- No special tool is needed for installation.
Potential Flaws
- The durability requires additional confirmation.
Bottom Line
Dorman’s products have been around for a while. Choosing Dorman’s 950-001 Axle Bearing and Hub Assembly for your car may be the best decision you may make this year.
5. Timken SP580310 Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly
Timken is a household name in the automotive parts sector with many products of high quality in its stock. The Timken SP580310 Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly is produced under the best quality-controlled environment. Superior materials are used to produce it and that is why it’s durable.
It has a sensor that is adequately designed to monitor our speed so that optimum performance can be achieved. If you are looking for a product that can handle load properly and lower friction, you should consider Timken SP580310 Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly.
It has special coatings which will prevent corrosion of the system and this will go a long way in ensuring durability. There is also a specially designed seal that protects the system from contamination.
Installing Timken SP580310 Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly is like strolling in the park. It has premium bearings which will guarantee fuel efficiency as well as longevity. You don’t need to worry about damage during installation because the seals are properly put in place so that this will look to be prevented.
Highlighted Benefits
- Lowers friction and takes care of load efficiently.
- State-of-the-art sensor technology so that wheel speed can be properly monitored.
- Superior seals ensure that there is no breakage when you are installing the product.
- Produced from alloy steel of high quality so that enhanced durability, as well as strength, can be achieved.
- Keeps up a perfect bearing setting.
Potential Flaws
- The sensor may fail to work after some time.
Bottom Line
Timken stands for quality and this is not compromised in the production of Timken SP580310 Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly. You can give it a try so that your vehicle will perform at its optimum.
6. Prime Choice Auto Parts Brand New Front Wheel Hub and Bearing Assembly
Aging, as well as contamination, can lead to the wearing out of your wheel bearings. When this occurs, there will be the development of excess play in the bearing and this can lead to loose steering and abnormal noises.
Prime Choice Auto Parts Brand New Front Wheel Hub and Bearing Assembly are produced making use of materials of high quality to ensure high performance, reliability, and durability. It comes with a seal that prevents contamination so that your hub will be clean at all times to make it long-lasting.
Furthermore, it’s pre-varnished with anti-wear lubricant and precision-machined so that improved performance and protection will be achieved. It’s produced to meet and surpass your expectations and is very easy to install.
The sensors are designed in such a way that the wheel speed will be properly monitored for an enhanced operation.
Highlighted Benefits
- Cutting-edge design.
- Seal of high quality.
- Meets expectations for fit and performance.
- Advanced Sensor for speed monitoring.
- Pre-varnished with anti-wear lubricant and precision-machined.
Potential Flaws
- It may not be as durable as its contemporaries.
Bottom Line
This product is highly recommended due to its cutting-edge design. Since Prime Choice is a popular name, its reputation should not be questioned.
7. OTC 6575 Hub Grappler Kit For On-Vehicle Wheel Hub and Bearing Removal
If you want to service your vehicle’s wheel hubs as well as bearings without taking out the steering units or knuckle, the OTC’s 6575 Hub Grappler Kit may be just what you need. It reduces service time because you won’t need any unnecessary alignments.
It comes with a puller that is particularly designed to exert maximum force even when you use minimal effort. You can easily find the jaws on the puller bar even if you don’t use fasteners because they are produced to fit perfectly into the hub applications.
The kit has a more extended lifespan when compared with matching designs. This is because it has an appropriate heat treatment, distinctive equalizer washer, and ¾” custom drive screw. With six adapters, you can rest assured that the application coverage will be boosted.
The carrying case is rugged and will keep the tools properly organized and safeguarded when you are not using them. You will also find a comprehensive application guide so that any guesswork will be eliminated and the best result achieved. You will be able to solve problems speedily so that you can save time.
Highlighted Benefits
- Can be used without removing the steering units.
- Last longer than contemporaries.
- Can be easily located on the puller bar.
- Has 6 adapters for improved application coverage.
- Comprehensive application guide.
Potential Flaws
- The price is on the high side.
Bottom Line
Removing your wheel hub and bearing should not be a headache anymore. With OTC’s 6575 Hub Grappler Kit, you will get the job done in no time and you will be glad you did.
8. LED Kingdomus 513188 Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly
LED Kingdomus 513188 Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly is your best bet if you desire is to get the best wheel bearing. It features high-bearing steel for enhanced durability and strength. It is pre-coated with anti-wear lubricant while the wheel stud has a protective coating to guard against corrosion and rust.
In addition, the ABS cord is manufactured from a mixed material having a high abrasion resistance for better performance in adverse settings. It also features multi-lip seal configurations so that internal bearing units will be protected and lubricants retained.
The manufacturing process is properly monitored so that exact tolerances of rolling elements and bearing raceways will be achieved. This will enable constant superior performance and minimize vibration as well as noise.
Highlighted Benefits
- High bearing steel for improved strength and durability.
- Pre-coated with anti-corrosion lubricant.
- Produced from blend of materials with high abrasion resistance.
- Comes multi-lip seal configurations.
- Exact tolerance of rolling elements is achieved.
Potential Flaws
- Its sturdiness over time requires extra confirmation.
Bottom Line
LED Kingdomus 513188 Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly is recommended due to its unique features. You can go for it if you desire the best.
9. ECCPP Wheel Hub and Bearing Assembly Front 515078
If you really want to get the best wheel bearing for your vehicle, the ECCPP Wheel Hub and Bearing Assembly Front 515078 should be in your priority list. Manufactured by ECCPP, one of the biggest automotive parts manufacturers in the United States, you are assured of premium quality which will bring the best out of your automobile.
This product is manufactured making use of materials of high quality so that reliability, durability and optimum performance are guaranteed. It is compatible with 2006-2009 Ford Explorer and 2006-2009 Mercury Mountaineer while its installation is like a stroll in the park.
It features a seal of superior quality which ensures anti-pollution protection. This will lead to clean hub bearing, minimized vibration and noise, superior durability, just to mention a few. The wheel bolts are properly coated so that corrosion and rust will be prevented. Twisting the wheel nuts in order to disassemble the wheel hub and bearing assembly is easier because of the perfectly coated bolts.
Highlighted Benefits
- Made of materials of high quality.
- Highly durable with optimum performance.
- Contains a seal of higher quality.
- Properly coated wheel bolts.
- Can be easily installed.
Potential Flaws
- There are reported cases of part failure after some months but this is very rare.
Bottom Line
With its pricing and features, the ECCPP Wheel Hub and Bearing Assembly Front 515078 is a good bargain for you. If you don’t mind the few reported cases of unreliability, it is recommended.
10. Timken SP500300 Axle Bearing and Hub Assembly
The high quality of Timken products can never be overemphasized. They cannot be ignored when your want to restore the safe and smooth ride of your automobile, especially in today’s fast-changing world. Timken SP500300 Axle Bearing and Hub Assembly is produced to meet and surpass OEM specifications so that you will be able to get access to a first-class product.
Timken SP500300 Axle Bearing and Hub Assembly features ABS sensor for effective speed monitoring. It has a 3 bolt flange and 6 lug applications. The wheel studs are already installed, hence, you don’t need to waste time doing this. It is compatible with most 4 wheel drive vehicles and very durable.
Highlighted Benefits
- Fits front right hand and left hand of your car.
- Easy to replace.
- Comes with ABS sensor.
- Fits most 4 wheel drive automobiles.
- Fits 6 lug wheels.
- Has 3 bolt flange.
Potential Flaws
- There is extra work required in packaging so that damage can be prevented.
What Manufacturer Makes The Best Wheel Bearing
A lot of manufacturers are involved in the production of wheel bearings. As a result of this, you need to be very careful with the manufacturer you go for. Popular and reliable manufacturers include Timken, MOOG, OTC, Dorman, ECCPP, Detroit Axle, just to mention a few.
Wheel Bearing Brands To Avoid
Before buying any bearing brand, it is very essential for you to carry out your research properly. Some products will fail after some months while some will not deliver according to the promise of the manufacturer. You should read enough reviews so that you will be able to know brands to avoid.
How to Replace a Front or Rear Wheel Bearing
What To Look For When Choosing Best Wheel Bearings
When you are trying to get the best wheel bearings for your car, it is very essential for you to look before you leap. Wheel bearings play an important role in supporting your vehicle’s weight and helping it to run smoothly.
As a result of this, you should not settle for less so that the efficiency of your vehicle’s performance will not be jeopardized. They are produced to last long but usually wear out with time and this gives rise to a need for replacement. Before going for a replacement, there are vital facts you need to know and some of them are discussed below.
Types of Wheel Bearings
There are various types of bearings in the market and it is very essential for you to know so that you will be able to make the right choice. Various manufacturers come up with different designs so that more efficiency can be achieved. Some types are discussed below for your reading pleasure.
Ball bearings
Ball bearings are specially produced to bear radial and thrust loads. They are very common in many vehicles and produced in such a way that friction is reduced while easy revolution of the wheel is ensured.
Ball thrust bearings
Ball thrust bearings are designed for low-speed and low-weight vehicles. If they are used in heavy vehicles, they may fail in no time. They reduce friction because they are designed to facilitate your wheel’s easy revolution.
Roller thrust bearings
These bearings have the capacity of containing heavy-duty vehicles. They are effective when used for vehicles used for carrying heavy loads. Their production factors in strength and reduction of friction.
Roller bearings
Roller bearings are designed in a cylindrical form. They can be used for all vehicles, no matter their type, but are very effective for vehicles that carry heavy loads
Tapered roller bearings
These bearings are specifically produced to handle radial and thrust loads. They are very versatile and modified for majority of vehicles. Their strength gives them the opportunity to contain heavy loads conveniently.
Factors and features to consider when buying the best bearings
When you are purchasing your wheel bearing, it is very essential for you to consider some factors before making a choice. Here are some of the factors so that making the right decision will not be tough for you.
The make and model of the car
The make and model of the your car will go a long way in determining the bearing to go for. You can confirm this on your vehicle’s manual and this should be considered because some products will state the make and models they are compatible with.
In addition, your vehicle’s weight should be considered because it will determine the product to go for. If you choose something that is not compatible with the weight of your vehicle, it can amount to wasting your money.
The material
You should also consider the material used to produce the product. The material should be resilient so that the bearing will be allowed to go back to its initial shape. The strength of the wheel bearing is determined by the material.
Corrosion resistance
The level of corrosion resistance of a bearing should be properly investigated. A good product should resist corrosion so that it can last for a long time. You wouldn’t want something that will rust easily which may necessitate another replacement. This can go a long way in creating a hole in your pocket.
The level of thermal conductivity
Thermal conductivity is an essential factor to consider when shopping for a bearing. It is very important for you to ensure that you go for a protective with a high thermal conductivity. This will protect the bearing from damage when heated up due to friction. It will also foster durability and you won’t need to replace your bearing all the time.
Frequently Asked Questions
There may be some questions on wheel bearings bothering your mind which may not have been treated so far. Here are some of these questions and they have been properly answered just because of you.
- What Is a Wheel Bearing?
Wheel bearings assist the wheel to revolve faster with little friction. They can be found in virtually all vehicles, including bicycles and aircrafts. On your car, they are supported by a metal axle shaft and conform securely into the hub. The hub is an indented block of metal at the middle of your wheel. The hub helps in holding the lug bolts which are used to connect the tire to the wheel. - What Does a Bad Wheel Bearing Sound Like?
In order to discover the sound, your car needs to be on motion. When the seal is damaged or broken, you will start hearing faint noise but this will become louder with time. When you are trying to turn, the noise will get louder and it will be a rhythmic noise which will increase with speed. - Why Do Wheel Bearings Make Noise?
Majority of wheel bearings produced in today’s world are properly sealed to prevent water as well as other damaging particles and contain the high-temperature grease in the bearing. When the seal is damaged or broken, the bearing will start working abnormally and make noise. - How Can I Pinpoint the Source of Bearing Noise?
You can get your car on a lift in order to discover the source of the noise. Alternatively, you can use a big screwdriver to detect where the sound is coming from. You only need someone to start the car and rev to about 40 mph. The long screwdriver should then be used to rest on the hub very close to the bearing. The noise should come through with the aid of the screwdriver but be careful not to touch a moving part. - When Should I Replace My Wheel Bearing?
Wheel bearings will not fail instantly, they will give you signs. They may start making noise and if you are not convenient with that, you can replace them. In some other instances, they may lock up which can lead to the inability of your car to move. It is advisable to get them replaced before it reaches this level. - How much will it cost to replace the wheel bearing?
Your vehicle type and model will go a long way in determining how much you are going to cough out. The location of the bearing to be replaced is also a factor that affects the cost. - What should I get done first – wheel bearings or brake pads and rotors?
It is advisable to do both at the same time so that you will be able save money in labor cost.I hear a sound from my driver’s side front tire area when I turn to pull out of the driveway or carry out a slow turn at a stop sign. Are my struts the problem?
Your struts may be the problem but you may need to see your mechanic for a comprehensive check.
If the wheel bearings are producing a loud noise when going straight and when turning right, is that a bad sign? Should I cease driving the car until I can get the problem fixed?
The bearings can make noise whether you are driving straight or turning. It is advisable to see your mechanic so that the actual problem can be figured out.
- Why does my car make a tire rubbing sound but not all the time?
You should check your car for clearances so that you will be rest assured that you are on a safer side.
Wrapping Up
Getting the best wheel bearing for your car is essential to its optimum performance. As a result of this, you should carry out a comprehensive research so that you don’t put your hard-earned money on a product that will disappoint you. A word is enough for the wise.
Putting an economy dorman bearing and not a premium brand like skf hub bearings with premium much longer lasting materials and 36month 45k mile warranty make this top bearing list rather suspect. While they do cost double the dorman, they are only 10-20 dollars more than moog and made of stronger materials.
I decided this list was a joke after I saw Detroit Axles on it. I have been reading reviews and there are a lot of negative reviews. several people have had the bearing fail within a month.
Don’t judge a product based on only reviews. Try to identify what’s the problem. Every product has negative reviews. What’s the percentage? It has 78% five star ratings, can’t you see it? A product can get negative reviews for many reasons such as damaged product, not fit well, can fall within few days, can make noise etc. We just shared our knowledge and opinion. For some negative reviews, you can’t say the whole list was a joke.
I agree I went through 3 sets of Detroit axel wheel bearings for my Subarus and the longest I got mileage wise was4680 miles before it went bad. Switched back to OEM bearings and 26,000 miles later still a perfect ride. Fact check is what I tell everyone before you buy for ones individual model car because some you have to go with the brand they seem to perform better with.