Rear wheel bearing-How to replace a Mk 7 ford fiesta 2008 to 2012

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of replacing the rear wheel bearings on a Mk 7 Ford Fiesta (2008 to 2012). By following these steps, you can save money and gain hands-on experience with vehicle maintenance.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

Before starting the replacement, ensure you have all the required tools and materials. Here’s what you will need:

• Socket set
• Torque wrench
• Hammer
• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Replacement wheel bearings
• Brake cleaner
• Grease

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

• Secure the Vehicle: Park the car on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the front wheels.
• Lift the Rear: Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the Wheels: Use a socket wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.

Step 3: Access the Wheel Bearings

• Remove Brake Components:
  • Take off the brake caliper by unscrewing the bolts.
  • Hang the caliper using a bungee cord or rope to avoid stressing the brake line.
  • Remove the brake disc if necessary to access the bearing.

Step 4: Remove the Old Wheel Bearings

• Detach the Hub:
  • Remove the hub assembly by unscrewing the bolts that secure it.
  • Use a hammer if necessary to gently tap the hub free.
• Extract the Bearings:
  • If the bearing is pressed in, use a bearing puller for extraction.
  • Clean the area where the old bearing was installed.

Step 5: Install New Wheel Bearings

• Prepare the New Bearings:
  • Apply a layer of grease to the new bearings to ensure smooth operation.
• Install New Bearings:
  • Press the new bearings into place using a bearing press or gently tap them in with a hammer, ensuring they are seated correctly.

Step 6: Reassemble the Wheel Components

• Reattach the Hub:
  • Position the hub assembly back onto the axle and secure it with bolts.
• Reinstall Brake Components:
  • Reattach the brake disc and caliper, ensuring that all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 7: Reinstall the Wheels

• Put the Wheels Back:
  • Place the rear wheels back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower the Vehicle:
  • Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack.

Step 8: Final Checks

• Tighten Lug Nuts:
  • Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque settings.
• Test Drive:
  • Take the car for a short drive to ensure that everything is functioning correctly and listen for any unusual noises.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully replace the rear wheel bearings on your Mk 7 Ford Fiesta. Regular maintenance is crucial for vehicle safety and performance, so consider checking other components while you're at it. If you encounter any issues, refer to a professional for assistance. Happy driving!