How to Replace Wheel Bearings on a Mazda

Mazda builds dependable, long lasting cars and trucks that require little maintenance and seem to be able to handle years of wear and tear without problem. However, you may need to replace the wheel bearings at some point. The wheel bearings are the inner bearings situated in the wheel hub of each wheel and allow easy, friction free turning of the wheel spindle. Sometimes, these bearings will wear out, causing metal on metal friction and undue wear and tear on your vehicle. Replacing them can be a bit tricky, but with the right tools and a little know how, this job can easily be tackled by any mechanic.

Jack the car up at the wheel you intend to change the bearings in first. Use the lug wrench to remove the lugnuts holding the wheel on the hub and then pull the wheel off of the hub. Use the screwdriver to pry the grease seal (the cylindrical knob in the middle of the hub) out of the hub's center.

Use the pliers to pull the cotter pin out of the castle nut under the grease seal and then use the socket wrenches to remove the castle nut. Pull the hub assembly off of the spindle and use the screwdriver to pry the bearing unit out of the middle of the hub.

Pack the new bearings with grease by placing a thick layer of grease over the entire unit and then install the bearing unit in the center of the hub. Slide the hub back onto the spindle, followed by the castle nut. Tighten the castlenut down with the socket wrenches until it is just tight enough to seat the bearings solidly to the spindle. Insert a new cotter pin and then reinstall the grease seal by lightly tapping it into place over the castle nut with the hammer.

Slide the wheel back onto the wheel studs and reinstall the lugnuts with the lug wrench. Repeat Steps 1 to 4 for the other three wheels on the Mazda.