Maintenance requirements for wheel end bearings: design and reality

Wheel end bearings in modern automobiles are often designed to require no routine maintenance, and their life expectancy is at least the same as that of vehicles. However, actual use variables such as temperature, cleanliness, load and lubrication conditions can significantly affect its durability. In theory, every 15 degrees of temperature increase, bearing life may be halved; Ideally, a well-sealed bearing internal grease can maintain its performance for a long time, unless subjected to extreme shock.

For family cars, wheel end bearings require little additional maintenance due to relatively mild operating conditions. On the contrary, heavy goods vehicles bear greater loads and their bearings need regular maintenance. Therefore, the wheel end bearings of ordinary private cars generally do not have problems in the case of serious collision or seal failure.

In short, as long as improper driving behavior is avoided (such as frequent impact on the curb or side impact of the tire) and proper drying after wading is ensured, the wheel end bearings of the car can be basically maintenance-free.

Key damage factors include:

Excessive temperature

Environmental pollution

Excessive or sudden load

underlubrication

Maintenance recommendations focus on preventing hard impact and keeping the bearing environment clean and dry.