How bad can my car's wheel bearings get before they NEED to be replaced?

Question

I recently found out that the wheel bearings on my car are going bad, but I don't have the money or time to get them replaced right now. They've been making a humming noise for about a month now, and it's starting to get louder. I have places that I need to go, but I'm worried that my car will break down while I am driving. Are there any signs that will alert me before the bearings do give out, or will my car just suddenly stop when I'm driving? I am planning on getting it fixed within the week, but will my car be okay until then?

Answer 1

as stated, fall off from total failure or seize up.  at the least, continue to drive and the bearings may seize to the axle shafts, resulting in replacement of the axle as well.

not your brightest move poo-key.

Answer 2

Driving on a failed wheel bearing is a big gamble with not only your vehicle but with your life. If the wheels come off while you're driving you could end up seriously hurt or dead. Wheel bearing failure is a HUGE safety item. Don't put yourself or others at risk if you can avoid it.

Answer 3

Here is what is happening> You were told the bearings are bad> So each time the tire rotates it can come off> Is that bad enough>Get it repaired or the spindle will get damaged and the cost is $$$$$

Answer 4

The best advice is to have it changed.

Humming eh?  I once had a Ford Fiesta that had wheel bearings so bad and they were rumbling so loud I couldn't hear the engine above 10mph.  Believe it or not, it was my mechanic's courtesy car!   He told me how to hold the wheel and push and pull it.  If you feel any movement there, it is about to fall off!  I didn't feel any movement and did about 2000 miles over a few weeks with no problems.  

Answer 5

the wheel might fall off or lock up you need to change it  

Answer 6

there is no guarantee that your car will be ok for even the next minute. then again it might be ok for the next month. but do you really want to take the chance? if i were you i wouldn't drive it at all until it's fixed. have friends or family take you where you need to go until you have the money to fix it. just think you could be driving down the road and everything be fine one minute the next minute your wheel is locking up or falling off so now you're in an accident that could hurt you or someone else or worse kill you or someone else all because you didn't have someone help you out when you definitely need it. Good luck!

Answer 7

  Are there any signs that will alert me before the bearings do give out, or will my car just suddenly stop when I'm driving?

Yeah the humming noise getting worse and worse would be your sign