What is a wheel bearing? 

A wheel bearing is a set of steel balls enclosed by a metal ring, and is positioned on a metal axle shaft within the hub. Wheel hubs are the mounting assemblies at the centre of each wheel, holding the bolts that attach the tyre to the wheel. The wheel hubs and bearing need to be kept in good condition, as they support the weight of the vehicle, and help make sure your wheels can fully rotate as you drive.

Why do my front tyres make loud noises when I drive? 

If your wheel hubs are dented, you might notice a grinding noise or vibration as you turn the corner. A worn wheel bearing is caused by friction, so you're more likely to hear this noise as your car picks up speed. You might also notice a thumping or knocking sound, which is caused by the wheel bearing rotating too loosely. 

Can you drive with a bad wheel bearing? 

A worn or poorly-aligned wheel bearing can make your steering feel loose or your car to pull to one side, so it can be very dangerous to drive once you notice an unusual noise. If you notice a thumping noise on one side of your car, you could be at risk of losing a wheel. 

Are wheel bearings easy to fix? 

Wheel bearings are subject to wear and tear, as well as rust over time. Once your wheel bearing has worn down, it will need to be replaced. While you can do this yourself with the right tools, it's always best to leave it to the experts if you're unsure.