How to Replace Front Wheel Bearing 2009-13 Mazda 3

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of replacing the front wheel bearing on a 2009-2013 Mazda 3. Worn bearings can lead to annoying noises and uneven tire wear, making this maintenance task essential for vehicle performance and safety. By following these steps, you can successfully install a new bearing and hub, ensuring a smoother ride.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

Before starting the replacement, ensure you have the following tools and materials ready:

• Flat Blade Screwdriver
• Pry Bar
• 14mm Socket
• 32mm Socket
• Bearing Race and Seal Driver
• Press
• Snap Ring Pliers
• Straight Cutters
• Ratchet
• Socket Driver
• Socket Extensions
• Torque Wrench
• Brake Parts Cleaner
• Copper Anti-Seize
• Liquid Thread Locker
• Paper Towels
• Rust Penetrant
• Center Punch
• Floor Jack
• Hammer
• Jack Stands
• Pick
• Wheel Chocks
• Wire Brush

Step 2: Lift the Vehicle

1. Prepare the Vehicle:

   • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
   • Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for safety.

2. Jack Up the Car:

   • Use a floor jack to lift the front of the vehicle.
   • Secure the vehicle with jack stands to ensure stability.

Step 3: Remove the Wheel

1. Loosen the Lug Nuts:

   • Use the appropriate socket (usually 19mm or 21mm) to loosen the lug nuts while the wheel is still on the ground.

2. Remove the Lug Nuts:

   • Once loosened, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.

Step 4: Access the Brake Components

1. Remove the Brake Caliper:

   • Use the 14mm socket to remove the bolts holding the brake caliper in place.
   • Hang the caliper with a wire to avoid straining the brake line.

2. Remove the Brake Rotor:

   • If necessary, remove any retaining screws and pull the brake rotor off.

Step 5: Remove the Hub Assembly

1. Remove the Hub Nut:

   • Use the 32mm socket to remove the hub nut from the center of the hub assembly.

2. Detach the Hub:

   • Using a pry bar, gently pry the hub assembly away from the steering knuckle.

3. Remove the Snap Ring:

   • Use snap ring pliers to remove the snap ring holding the bearing in place.

Step 6: Install the New Bearing

1. Prepare the New Bearing:

   • Clean the area where the new bearing will be installed using brake parts cleaner.

2. Install the New Bearing:

   • Use a bearing race and seal driver to press the new bearing into the hub assembly. Ensure it is seated properly.

3. Reinstall the Snap Ring:

   • Place the snap ring back onto the bearing to secure it in place.

Step 7: Reassemble the Hub Assembly

1. Reattach the Hub:

   • Position the hub assembly back onto the steering knuckle and secure it with the hub nut.

2. Torque the Hub Nut:

   • Use a torque wrench to tighten the hub nut to the manufacturer's specifications.

Step 8: Reinstall Brake Components

1. Reattach the Brake Rotor:

   • Place the brake rotor back onto the hub.

2. Reinstall the Brake Caliper:

   • Position the brake caliper back over the rotor and secure it with the bolts. Tighten using a 14mm socket.

Step 9: Reattach the Wheel

1. Put the Wheel Back On:

   • Place the wheel onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

2. Lower the Vehicle:

   • Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.

3. Tighten Lug Nuts:

   • Use the appropriate socket to fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern.

Conclusion

You have successfully replaced the front wheel bearing on your Mazda 3. It's essential to check your work, ensuring everything is securely fastened and no tools are left behind. For ongoing maintenance, consider regular inspections of your vehicle's bearings and other components. If you encounter any issues during the process, consult a professional mechanic for assistance.