2012 Honda Civic Wheel Bearing: A Comprehensive Guide

Your 2012 Honda Civic wheel bearing is a crucial component that ensures the smooth and safe operation of your vehicle. This article will provide you with comprehensive information on everything you need to know about your 2012 Honda Civic wheel bearing, including its function, common problems, and replacement process.

Benefits of Replacing Your 2012 Honda Civic Wheel Bearing

Improved handling: A properly functioning wheel bearing allows your wheels to rotate smoothly, which improves your vehicle's handling and stability.

Reduced noise: A worn wheel bearing can produce a grinding or humming noise, which can be distracting and annoying. Replacing the bearing can eliminate this noise and restore a quiet ride.

Increased safety: A faulty wheel bearing can lead to wheel wobble or even failure, which can be dangerous. Replacing the bearing ensures your safety and the safety of your passengers.

How to Replace Your 2012 Honda Civic Wheel Bearing

Step 1: Gather your tools and materials.

You will need the following tools and materials:

New wheel bearing assembly

Socket wrench set

Torque wrench

Jack and jack stands

Safety glasses

Gloves

Step 2: Safety first.

Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks behind the wheels opposite the one you will be working on.

Step 3: Remove the wheel.

Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel, then jack up the vehicle and support it using jack stands. Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

Step 4: Remove the brake caliper.

Unbolt the brake caliper bolts and remove the caliper from the rotor. Do not disconnect the brake line.

Step 5: Remove the old bearing.

Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the bearing in place. Carefully remove the old bearing from the knuckle.

Step 6: Install the new bearing.

Apply a small amount of bearing grease to the new bearing. Carefully insert the new bearing into the knuckle and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.

Step 7: Reassemble the brake caliper and wheel.

Reinstall the brake caliper and tighten the bolts. Place the wheel on the hub and tighten the lug nuts.

Step 8: Lower the vehicle.

Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque. Double-check all bolts and nuts to ensure they are properly tightened.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing a 2012 Honda Civic Wheel Bearing

Not using the correct tools. Using the wrong tools can damage the bearing or other components.

Applying too much torque. Overtightening the bolts can damage the bearing.

Not using bearing grease. Bearing grease lubricates the bearing and prevents premature wear.

Not torquing the bolts to the correct specifications. This can compromise the bearing's performance and safety.

Getting Started with 2012 Honda Civic Wheel Bearing

The average cost of replacing a 2012 Honda Civic wheel bearing ranges between $200 to $500, depending on the make, model, and location. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 1 in 5 vehicles on the road have a faulty wheel bearing.

Symptoms of a Bad Wheel Bearing	Causes of a Bad Wheel Bearing
Grinding noise when driving	Worn or damaged bearing
Whirring or humming noise when driving	Contaminated or dry bearing
Wheel wobble or vibration	Loose or damaged bearing
Increased steering effort	Worn or damaged bearing
Premature tire wear	Misaligned or damaged bearing

Recommended Maintenance Schedule	Estimated Cost
Regular inspection every 6 months or 6,000 miles	Free
Replacement when necessary	$200 to $500 per bearing

2012 Honda Civic Wheel Bearing: A Comprehensive Guide