Acura TL 2004-2008: How to Replace Wheel Hub and Bearings

This article applies to the Acura TL (2004-2008).

Worn out wheel hubs and bearings generally make their presence known through various noises. These can include snapping, clicking, popping, knocking or clunking, grinding, and even humming or growling. You might also experience uneven tire, rotor, or brake pad wear and vibrations at speed. As bearings wear down even farther, they can become quite dangerous and even damage other suspension components in the process, so it goes without saying that you shouldn't ignore the problem. Replacing them yourself can be a bit of a pain, but it will save you a lot of money over going to a professional. Here's how to get it done in the comfort of your garage.

Step 1 – Remove front suspension components

• Jack up the front of the car and place it on jack stands, then remove the wheels and tires (lug nuts use 19mm socket).
• Remove the caliper bolts and pull the caliper off the knuckle (14mm socket).
• Remove the hub screw (#20 in Figure 2, Phillips-head screw) and pull the rotor off the hub.
• Remove the axle nut (#21, Figure 2) using an impact gun (36mm socket, might require pipe extension/breaker bar).
• Pull the cotter pin from the upper control arm (#17, Figure 1), the lower control arm (#18, Figure 1), and the tie rod end using needle nose pliers. It's a good idea to mark the tie rod end threads for easier re-installation.
• Remove the 17mm nuts near the cotter pins.
• Disconnect the ABS sensor by removing the 10mm bolts from the knuckle (#15 and 19 Figure 1).
• Use the tie rod end puller/separator to remove the upper and lower control arm and tie rod end from the knuckle.
• Lift the ball joint out of the lower control arm and pull the knuckle toward you to remove it from the axle.

Step 2 – Install new bearings/hubs

You have two options when it comes to removing the hub from the bearing – take it to a local machine shop (the smart option if you don't have a heavy press) or do it yourself. If you choose to DIY, place the knuckle hub side down on the press, then use a 24mm socket to press the hub out.

If the inner race of the bearing is stuck on the hub, you will need to make one or two cuts in it (being careful not to cut the hub) and use a chisel and hammer to beat it off. Remove the retaining ring from the knuckle (#19, Figure 2). Press the bearing out by placing it knuckle face down and using the 36mm axle nut on top of the bearing. Press the new bearing in (rubber seal side first), install the retaining ring, and press the hub back in place.

Reinstall the assembly back on the car and reinstall the tie rod end and upper and lower control arm. Reconnect the ABS sensor, cotter pins, rotor, and caliper for each side.

Featured Video: 2004-2008 TL Front Wheel Bearing DIY

Step 3 – Replace rear hubs/bearings

Thankfully, replacing the rear hubs and bearings is much simpler than the front. Jack up the rear of the car and place it on jack stands. Remove the wheels and tires, then remove the brake caliper (12mm) and caliper bracket (14mm). Remove the rotor and dust cover. Remove the 32mm nut holding the bearing in place and slide it off.

If replacing the entire assembly, simply slide it in place and install the new nut. Otherwise, take it to a shop to have the new bearings pressed in or use your hydraulic press. Reinstall the rotor and dust cover, caliper and bracket, and wheels and tires.

Featured Video: Honda Accord/TL Rear Wheel Bearing Replacement

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