Symptoms:

High-pitched squeaking or whistling from any corner of the car

Noises get faster and/or louder with speed

Fix:

Repack wheel/hub bearing with grease

Replace wheel/hub bearing

Replace entire hub assembly

Labor: 
Prices:

Brake cleaner, spray can - $5

Automotive grease - $10

Brand new hub assembly, from Mazda dealer - $500

Prices are in U.S. dollars.


The bearings usually give ample warning that they are failing.  High-pitched squeaking that changes with vehicle speed is a good clue.

You can do a quick test by jacking the tires up and shaking the tire / rim in and out.  If you sense any play in the tire / rim, the bearing is possibly loose or failing.  Be wary that loose suspension components (idler arm, shock/strut mount) could also cause play.  Inspect the bolts and nuts that secure the hub to the rest of the suspension to make sure they are all tight.

The front bearing are rebuildable, regardless of what Mazda dealer will tell you; they will claim you need to replace the entire hub (at a cost of ~$400US!).

Mazdatrix has a write-up on replacing the front bearings on their website.
http://www.mazdatrix.com/faq/frontbrg.htm



Questions?  Comments?  Send mail to:  reted@fc3spro.com

10/15/2004