2012 Chevy Malibu Hub Bearing: The Ultimate Guide
2012 Chevy Malibu Hub Bearing: The Ultimate Guide
The 2012 Chevy Malibu is a reliable and comfortable sedan. However, like any other vehicle, it can experience issues with its hub bearings.
Hub bearings are essential components that allow the wheels to rotate smoothly. When they fail, it can lead to a variety of problems, including noise, vibration, and even loss of control. That's why it's important to be aware of the signs of hub bearing failure and to know how to replace them.
Benefits of Replacing Your Hub Bearings
Replacing your hub bearings can provide a number of benefits, including:
- Improved handling and stability
- Reduced noise and vibration
- Increased fuel efficiency
- Longer tire life
How to Replace Your Hub Bearings
Replacing your hub bearings is a relatively straightforward process. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging the bearings or other components.
- Gather your tools and materials. You will need a new set of hub bearings, a socket wrench, a torque wrench, and a hammer.
- Remove the wheel. Use the socket wrench to remove the lug nuts and then pull the wheel off.
- Remove the brake caliper. Use the socket wrench to remove the bolts that hold the brake caliper in place. Then, lift the caliper off the rotor.
- Remove the rotor. Use the socket wrench to remove the bolts that hold the rotor in place. Then, pull the rotor off the hub.
- Remove the hub bearing. Use the hammer to tap the hub bearing out of the hub.
- Install the new hub bearing. Tap the new hub bearing into the hub using the hammer.
- Install the rotor. Place the rotor on the hub and tighten the bolts.
- Install the brake caliper. Place the brake caliper on the rotor and tighten the bolts.
- Install the wheel. Place the wheel on the hub and tighten the lug nuts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When replacing your hub bearings, it is important to avoid the following common mistakes:
- Overtightening the lug nuts. This can damage the lug nuts and the threads on the hub.
- Not using a torque wrench. This can result in the bearings being over- or under-tightened.
- Damaging the hub. This can be caused by using a hammer to remove the hub bearing.
Advanced Features
Some 2012 Chevy Malibu models come with advanced features that can make replacing the hub bearings easier. These features include:
- Integrated wheel bearings. These bearings are built into the hub, which makes them easier to replace.
- Hub bearing assemblies. These assemblies include the hub, bearing, and seal, which makes them easier to install.
Industry Insights
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), hub bearing failure is a common problem on the 2012 Chevy Malibu. The NHTSA has received over 100 complaints about this issue, including reports of accidents and injuries.
Maximizing Efficiency
There are a few things you can do to maximize the efficiency of your hub bearings:
- Keep your tires properly inflated. This will help to reduce the load on the bearings.
- Avoid overloading your vehicle. This will also help to reduce the load on the bearings.
- Have your wheel alignment checked regularly. This will help to ensure that the tires are wearing evenly, which will extend the life of the bearings.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Improved handling and stability
- Reduced noise and vibration
- Increased fuel efficiency
- Longer tire life
Cons
- Can be expensive to replace
- Requires some mechanical knowledge
Making the Right Choice
If you are experiencing any of the signs of hub bearing failure, it is important to have them replaced as soon as possible. By following the steps in this guide, you can safely and easily replace your hub bearings and restore your 2012 Chevy Malibu to its peak performance.
| Model | Price | Warranty |
|---|---|---|
| ACDelco | $80.99 | 12 months/12,000 miles |
| Moog | $74.99 | 12 months/12,000 miles |
| Timken | $69.99 | 12 months/12,000 miles |
| Symptom | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Noise when turning | Worn hub bearing | Replace the hub bearing |
| Vibration when braking | Loose hub bearing | Tighten the hub bearing |
| Loss of control when driving | Failed hub bearing | Replace the hub bearing immediately |
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