Audi A4 B8: How to Replace Wheel Hub and Bearings
Faulty wheel hubs and bearings can cause a number of issues in the Audi A4 B8, from noise to death wobbles. Read on to learn how to replace this important component yourself.
This article applies to the Audi A4 B8 (2008-2015).
The wheels on your Audi A4 are connected to your wheel hubs, and inside the hubs are the bearings that allow your wheels to rotate freely. Bad wheel bearings can cause squealing noise in your wheels, which can be quite obnoxious. The worse the hubs and bearing get, the more wobbly the wheels become, which can cause your car to pull from side to side. It is unsafe to drive with bad hubs; worst case scenario, you could see your wheel going past your car as you're driving. Read on to learn how to replace the wheel hubs and bearings in the Audi A4 B8.
Materials Needed
- Jack and jack stands
- Tire iron
- Socket set
- Rubber mallet
- Phillips screwdriver
- Replacement hubs and bearings
Step 1 – Jack up car
Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you will be replacing the hub on, then raise it with your jack. Secure the car with jack stands, then remove the wheel.
Step 2 – Remove caliper
To remove the brake caliper, use your socket to remove the two bolts on the back of it, then pull it up and off the rotor. Place it somewhere safely, and don't let it hang from the brake line.
Step 3 – Remove brake rotor
The brake rotor can be removed now, but you will have to tap it with a rubber mallet to get it loose. Tap it a few times, then pull it straight out.
Step 4 – Remove axle nut
Remove the axle nut, which is located right in the middle of the wheel hub. Use your socket and big ratchet to turn it counter-clockwise, while ensuring the wheel hub isn't turning, then remove it. Remove the screw in the hub by inserting a Phillips screwdriver in the hole, then unscrewing it off.
Step 5 – Unbolt the ball joint
To free the axle, you will need to unbolt the three nuts on the bottom of the ball joints. Remove the three nuts on the bottom, then pull the ball joint down, thus freeing the axle.
Step 6 – Remove hub bolts
Remove the three bolts on the back of the hub, holding it in place. They are on the inside, behind the hub.
Step 7 – Replace hub with bearings
Tap on the center of the hub with a rubber mallet until it comes loose, then remove it. Install the new hub and bearings in place, then tighten the three bolts on the back of it. Align the axle back in place, then tighten the ball joint under it. Install the axle nut in the center of the hub, then install the rotor and brake caliper on top of it. Install the wheel and lower the car.
Related Discussion
- Wheel Bearing Replacement - Audiworld.com
