All vehicles come with different parts that perform different yet important functions that enable the car to move safely.
The wheel bearing seal is one of those parts. It is responsible for keeping contaminants, such as dirt, water, and debris, out of the wheel bearing so it can remain properly lubricated.
However, over time, the wheel bearing seals can go bad as a result of old age, etc., and when that happens, it has to be checked and hopefully replaced. So, what should wheel bearing seals be checked for?
Wheel bearing seals should be checked for any signs of oil or grease leakages, looseness on the wheel seal, abnormal noise while the vehicle is in motion, and signs of tears, cracks, or physical damage. If any of these signs were observed, a replacement should be made immediately.
What Should Wheel Bearing Seals Be Checked For?
Here are the lists of things you should check on wheel bearing seals during an inspection:
1. Leaks of Oil or Grease
When checking your wheel bearing seals, the first thing to look for is any sign of oil or grease leakage. Inspect the area around the seal and the wheel hub to be sure it is not leaking in any way.
Oil or grease on the inside of the wheel or the outside of the seal is a clear indicator that the seal may be damaged or worn.
If you notice any leaks during the inspection, please have them fixed immediately to prevent further damage to the wheel bearing.
2. Check for Tears or Damage
Carefully examine the seal for visible signs of tears, cracks, or physical damage. If the seal is damaged, it can allow contaminants to enter the bearing, leading to premature wear and bearing failure.
Begin by closely inspecting the seal’s surface for any visible cracks or tears. Cracks usually appear as small lines or fissures, while tears may look like slits or gaps in the material. You can use a flashlight to enhance visibility in poorly lit areas.
Look for signs of abrasion or excessive wear on the seal surface. They might appear smoother or shinier than the surrounding material, indicating friction or contact with other components.
Observe the seal for any signs of warping or bending. A deformed seal might not maintain a proper fit, which can lead to leakage and contamination.
You should ensure the seal maintains its circular shape. An out-of-round seal indicates deformation, often caused by improper installation or external forces.
Furthermore, look for any cuts or punctures that may have been caused by sharp objects or debris. These can create direct paths for contaminants to enter the bearing assembly.
Check the edges of the seal. Damaged or frayed edges can mean improper handling during installation or removal, which can compromise the seal’s effectiveness.
3. Check for Looseness
You should also check for any looseness on the wheel seal by gently moving the wheel or hub from side to side with your hands.
Excessive play or looseness can indicate a worn wheel bearing which could be caused by a damaged seal allowing contaminants to enter and damage the bearing. A fix or seal replacement should be done immediately.
Ensure that the seal is properly seated in its housing. It should be flush and aligned with the surrounding surfaces. Any misalignment can indicate that the seal is loose.
Look for any gaps between the seal and the housing. A well-fitted seal should not have visible gaps where contaminants can enter or lubrication can escape.
4. Listen for Any Abnormal Noise
Listen for any abnormal noises while the vehicle is in motion. A damaged or worn wheel bearing, which may be related to a compromised seal, can produce unusual sounds such as grinding, whining, or rumbling.
You can also do this by rotating the wheel by hand and listening for unusual sounds that might indicate a loose seal allowing contaminants to enter the bearing.
Pay attention to the specific wheel or location of the noise and have it checked out immediately.
5. Check for Wheel End Play
Check for excessive wheel end play, which is the movement of the wheel in and out. Excessive play is often a sign of a worn or damaged wheel bearing. If the seal is damaged, it can allow contaminants to enter the bearing, causing premature wear on the bearing.
6. Check for Moisture
If you suspect a seal issue, you can check for moisture or water inside the hub or around the bearing. Water inside the bearing assembly can cause corrosion and damage to the wheel bearing. This may indicate a failed seal that allowed water to enter.
7. Check for Abnormal Heat
After driving, carefully touch the wheel hub and rim to check for abnormal heat. Excessive heat can be a sign of a malfunctioning wheel bearing, possibly due to friction caused by a damaged seal. Be cautious when checking for heat to avoid burns.
However, if you observe any of the above issues during your inspection, endeavor to fix them as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the wheel bearings and ensure safe and reliable operation of your vehicle.
When Should You Check Your Wheel Bearing Seals?
At least, the wheel bearing seals should be checked every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 kilometers). You shouldn’t wait until the seal starts dropping oil on the ground before you can have it checked.
If you hear unusual sounds, such as grinding, whining, or rumbling coming from the wheels while driving, it’s a clear sign of wheel bearing or seal problems. In this case, you should have the seals checked as soon as possible.
Furthermore, since the wheel bearing seals are near the brakes, it’s good practice to inspect the seals when you’re replacing brake pads or rotors. This is a convenient time to access the wheel area and check for any issues.
If you frequently engage in off-roading, drive in harsh conditions, or hit potholes and curbs, your wheel bearing seals may experience increased stress. In such cases, it’s a good idea to inspect the seals
It is also a good idea to check your wheel bearing seals when you have your tires rotated, which is usually recommended every 6,000 to 8,000 miles (9,600 to 12,800 kilometers) depending on your make and model of vehicle.
Water and mud can enter the wheel-bearing area, especially if the seals are compromised. After driving in exceptionally wet or muddy conditions, consider checking the seals to ensure they are functioning properly.
Most importantly, it is wise to perform a thorough vehicle inspection, which includes checking the wheel bearing seals before embarking on a long road journey to prevent unexpected issues on the road.
Remember that regular maintenance and inspections can help identify potential problems early and prevent more significant issues down the road. Endeavor to fix the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage or safety concerns.
Conclusion
Owing a vehicle comes with the responsibility of taking care of such a vehicle. With that being said, you should always check your wheel bearing seals for any signs of oil or grease leakages, looseness within the seal, tear, and damage, abnormal noise within the seal, etc. When you discover any issue with the seal, please have it fixed immediately.
