how critical to replace worn rear wheel bearings?

[psk145]

I had some powerflex trailing arm bushings installed yesterday, and today, I noticed a whining type noise on the freeway. I thought it was the tires. Now after driving more on it, I notice its only from the right side. I know that bearing is making noise already, my mechanic put a stethescope on it a few weeks ago, and we could hear it grumbling. So now the noise is even more apparent with the bushings.

So how critical is it to replace the wheel bearing?

[psk145]

no one?

[DSK M3/4]

i'd do it sooner rather than later. not as important as a leaking water pump, but more important than a leaking head gasket.

[psk145]

you mean valve cover gasket right? Cause if its more imprtant than a head gasket....then damn, I better get it done.

[saitam]

How did the technician listen to the stethescope and where did he point it? My friend's 92 325i has similar problem but we are not 100% sure it's the bearing.

[psk145]

he has this stethescope that has a solid end, and he put it on the back of the hub (I think) while the car was in the air and running in gear. Its very obvious if you compare it to the other side. Im sorry thats not very descriptive, but its hard to describe, and I dont remember 100%

[DSK M3/4]

sorry, v/c gasket. too early.

[Drea///M3]

ANY worn moving part (i.e. Wheel Bearing) should be replaced ASAP...Things that move at such high rates can cause catastrophies...The bearing can seize without notice or can "explode"/ shatter...either way you would be stranded....And I'm sure you don't want to be stranded with such a nice car...

[ms318is]

How critical is it to have the rear wheel remain attached and turning freely?
Ummm... I'd rate it pretty high!
But seriously...
Once a bearing starts failing, it only gets worse. And it can degrade rapidly... Will the rear wheel actually fall off? Not likely. What is more likely is it will get louder and louder, and will eventually seize and either the outer race will start spinning and take out the carrier, or the inner race stars spinning and takes out the axle.
Both cost a whole lot more than a bearing...

[Cyrus]

if you dont replace that $40 part, you'll also have to replace your hub, your abs sensor, and maybe even your...what cha ma call it....fuq, i cant remember, but either 40 or 400.
this happened to me 2 months ago, btw.

[psk145]

OK, guess its important. My mechanic at the time though said that I shouldnt worry about it til it started making a lot more noise. Is it pretty wasy to DIY with the Bentley? Any special tools?

[BJO]

you will need a rear wheel bearing removal tool. www.technictool.com

[psk145]

I dont see their rear bearing tool, do I need to contact them for info?

never mind, found a universal one. Whoa $425 forget that!!

[saitam]

go to a autopart store like Autozone, they have free tool rental

[Kevlar]

having a wheel bearing (front or rear) seize up on you isn't fun. It happened to a friend of mine on his subaru... especially you're doing 80, it starts making all this noise and then WHAP! that wheel locks up ... :eek2:

[iamane30m20nut]

OH crap... I better get my wheel bearing replaced, then. Jeez... locking up? Crazy... How much for an E30? Does anyone know? Does anyone care?