S40 2005 Front wheel bearings

ajc518 · Post by **ajc518** » 28 Apr 2009, 10:59

I had problems with both of my front wheel bearings. One was cracked, and the other was just all messed up. I spent like $600 and had them both replaced. Now a couple weeks later, they are starting to make grinding sounds, and a lot of noise. The mechanic I had work on it is in Florida, and I wont get down there for over another month.

I know the 2005, and up bearings are different from the 2004 and below. It sounds like my bearings need grease in them, like the mechanic didnt do it. Is it possible to grease those type bearings yourself? The start to make a lot of noise when it gets around 45mph. The sound is different from the what the tires make, so I have ruled out anything to do with the actual tires.

thanks

p.s. if you have pictures that would help a lot too

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 28 Apr 2009, 15:49

Welcome to MVS.
These hubs (not really bearings that are replaceable or greasable) come pre-greased. I'm thinking it's your axles that are worn and not your hubs at this point.

ajc518 · Post by **ajc518** » 28 Apr 2009, 15:55

what should I look for to check that, and how hard is it too do?

The sound thats coming from the wheels sounds like bearing rubbing up against each other. If you have ever been on a bike or skateboard that the bearing went bad, it sounds just like that.

thanks

Post by **vegasjetskier** » 28 Apr 2009, 18:41

ajc518 wrote:what should I look for to check that, and how hard is it too do?

The sound thats coming from the wheels sounds like bearing rubbing up against each other. If you have ever been on a bike or skateboard that the bearing went bad, it sounds just like that.

thanks

How are the brakes?

Post by **JDS60R** » 28 Apr 2009, 18:58

The way you desribe it , it is very possible that the bearings were bad. I think it is unlikely that both of them were bad at the same time and that you could be beating up you ABS sensor as it is too close and is hitting the tone ring. It could also be the dust shield behind the rotor got bent and is rubbing the disc.

Is the noise a constant metal rubbing agains metal sound ?
Does it cahnge while you are turning (get softer on one side while turning? Any clicking while turning or can you see grese now in the wheel wells?

You said you were not in Florida currently but I am unsure where you are now.

I am in Nashville, TN and have posted that while I am out of work, I am happy to help anyone in the community for free.

If you are near Nashville I would be happy to diagnose it for you (free) and help any way I can.

Please email me if you are close by.

Best Wishes,
John

ajc518 · Post by **ajc518** » 28 Apr 2009, 19:06

I am in georgia now.

As for the sound, it doesnt sound like metal rubbing together. It sounds like a bunch of marbles(bearings) rubbing together loudly. The mechanic said he checked all of them, and that they were fine after he replaced them. I really dont trust his judgment now. You can sometimes hear the sound when I turn, but mostly it's if I get up around 45mph it will get real loud, and it comes and goes every couple seconds.

The brakes are perfectly fine. I had them checked at the volvo dealership a month ago.

Post by **JDS60R** » 28 Apr 2009, 19:20

Do you have a garage to work in. If not a local tire and general repair place could put it up on a lift and check for you (find a place with free inspections.

It really sounds like a bearing failure. It could be a worn cv joint. They both sound similar. By turning the car you are changing the bearing load. Next time you go to a place with a large empty parking lot (most businesses after work hours) I would turn it in circles going in both directions and note what changes you are hearing in the noises. If it makes the sound (non lubed bearing ) and switches side while turning it is most likely a bearing or an outer CV. At slow speed the outer CV will click if worn.

Wish you were closer to Nashville,its not really that bad of a job.