Replacing the wheel bearings on your 2016 Toyota Tacoma is crucial for ensuring smooth and safe driving. Faulty or worn-out wheel bearings can lead to uneven tire wear, strange noises, and compromised vehicle performance. If you’re noticing a grinding or humming sound, particularly when turning, it might be time to replace your wheel bearings.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of wheel bearing replacement, explain the tools you’ll need, and provide insights into costs, times, and other key considerations.
Signs Your Wheel Bearings Need Replacement
- Grinding Noise: You may hear a grinding or humming noise when turning or driving straight. This is one of the most common signs of a failing wheel bearing.
- Vibrations in the Steering Wheel: When the bearing is completely shot, you’ll likely feel vibrations through the steering wheel.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Bad wheel bearings can cause uneven or premature wear on the tires.
Tools and Materials Required
- New Wheel Bearing (OEM recommended or high-quality aftermarket)
- Ratchet and Socket Set (17mm, 19mm, and other sizes depending on your Tacoma’s specs)
- Torque Wrench (for precise torque specifications)
- Break Bar
- Jack and Jack Stands
- Lug Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Hammer or Rubber Mallet
- Bearing Press or Hub Puller
- Wheel Bearing Grease
- Brake Cleaner
Wheel Bearing Replacement Process for a 2016 Toyota Tacoma
1. Preparation and Safety
- Park on a flat surface: Engage the parking brake and ensure the vehicle is stable.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you’ll be replacing the bearing (don’t remove them yet).
- Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands for safety.
- Remove the wheel: Once lifted, remove the loosened lug nuts and take the wheel off.
2. Remove the Brake Caliper and Rotor
- Use a ratchet or wrench to remove the brake caliper. This might involve unbolting it from the brake assembly. Once removed, hang it with a wire or place it somewhere it won’t strain the brake hose.
- Remove the brake rotor: If the rotor is stuck, a gentle tap with a rubber mallet can help loosen it.
3. Detach the Wheel Hub
- You’ll likely need to remove the axle nut (this could be a 36mm socket depending on your Tacoma model). Use a breaker bar to loosen it if necessary.
- Access the wheel bearing by removing the hub assembly. Depending on your tools and experience, this might require a bearing press or hub puller.
4. Remove the Old Bearing
- Once the hub is removed, you can press out the old bearing. Be cautious as this part can be tricky if you don’t have access to a bearing press.
- Clean the hub and surrounding components thoroughly with brake cleaner to remove any debris or old grease.
5. Install the New Bearing
- Press the new wheel bearing into place using a bearing press or a specialized tool.
- Ensure the bearing is seated properly, and apply wheel bearing grease as necessary to ensure smooth rotation.
6. Reassemble the Hub and Brakes
- Reattach the hub assembly by following the steps in reverse.
- Reinstall the brake rotor and caliper, ensuring all bolts are torqued to manufacturer specifications.
- Replace the axle nut and tighten it to the specified torque, which is typically between 159-217 ft-lbs for the Toyota Tacoma 2016, but always check your vehicle’s manual for precise specifications.
7. Reinstall the Wheel
- Mount the wheel back onto the hub, tighten the lug nuts, and lower the vehicle to the ground.
- Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the recommended torque of around 83 ft-lbs.
Cost of Wheel Bearing Replacement for a 2016 Toyota Tacoma
- Parts Cost: OEM replacement wheel bearings typically cost between $60 and $120 per bearing. High-quality aftermarket bearings might be slightly cheaper.
- Labor Costs: If you’re having this done professionally, labor costs can range from $200 to $300 per wheel, depending on your location.
- Total Cost: Expect a total replacement cost between $260 and $420 per wheel if done by a professional.
Estimated Time
For an experienced mechanic, replacing a wheel bearing can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours. If you’re doing this at home, expect the job to take longer, especially if you don’t have specialized tools like a bearing press.
FAQs
1. How often should wheel bearings be replaced? Wheel bearings can last anywhere from 85,000 to 100,000 miles. However, they should be inspected regularly for wear or damage.
2. Can I drive with a bad wheel bearing? It’s not recommended to drive with a failing wheel bearing, as it can lead to severe safety issues, including complete wheel detachment.
3. What happens if I don’t replace a bad wheel bearing? Ignoring a bad bearing can cause additional damage to the hub, axle, or other suspension components, leading to more expensive repairs.
4. Can I replace just one wheel bearing, or should I do both? While it’s not necessary to replace both bearings at once, it’s often a good idea to inspect both sides and replace them if they show signs of wear.