How do I know if the wheel bearings on 2002 ford explorer need to be replaced?

Question

I am hearing a constant humming sound as i drive. It has gotten louder over the past few months.

Answer 1

they could be going bad. jack it up and see if you can shake the wheels.

Answer 2

you,ll hear humming sound along with a roaring sometimes and you,ll notice high amount of heat building up on the side that's bad,the wheel will get really hot on that side,and there may also be a lot of play in the wheel,you may also hear a squealing sound coming from that side or that wheel,if you any of these signs you need to check it or have it checked,it can cause more damage to it than just replacing a wheel bearing can repair,good luck with it.

Answer 3

The humming sound is usually the wheel bearing.  Does it increase or decrease if you turn left or right?  As the vehicle's weight is focused on the bad bearing the noise increases and it decreases when weight is shifted off of it.  Is your ABS light on?  The ABS sensor is so sensitive that even millimeters of wear on the wheel bearing will be enough to put too much distance into the sensor's parameters.    Good luck, these are expensive parts ($150-350).  These bearings are not the old cone and race style, but are hub assemblies.  The good news is that with the assembly the bearing does not have to be pressed in so it's possible for a good shade tree mechanic to do.

Answer 4

Those trucks have standard wheel bearings for both two and four wheel drive. If you are good with brakes, you can get all four bearings, races, and seals for around 80-90 dollars and put them in yourself. Jack up the front of the truck, one side at a time if you want, and spin the wheel, listen if you hear the humming/roaring noise. You could also just pull it apart and look for metal shavings in the bearings. It probably wouldn't hurt to pull it apart anyways and repack them if nothing else.