How to Replace Front Wheel Bearing 07-13 Nissan Altima
Difficulty: Advanced · About 120 min · Nissan Altima
Replace a front hub and bearing assembly on a 2007–2013 Nissan Altima, separating the ball joint and brake assembly, preserving the ABS sensor wiring, and reinstalling the axle nut with the correct locking hardware and torque.
Tools you will need
- Torque Wrench
- 14mm Socket
- Hammer
- Pry Bar
- 17mm Socket
- Jack Stands
- 19mm Socket
- Brake Parts Cleaner
- Safety Glasses
- 21mm Socket
- 32mm Socket
- Side Cutters
- Flat Blade Screwdriver
- 10mm Socket
- Ratchet
- Wire Brush
- Floor Jack
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
- 22mm Socket
Parts and supplies
- Front hub and bearing assembly
- Axle nut and cotter pins
- Brake fluid
Steps
Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel
Loosen the wheel nuts and axle nut with the vehicle on the ground. Raise and support the front securely on a jack stand, then remove the wheel.
Remove the brake assembly
Release the brake hose retainer and remove the caliper, supporting it so the hose is not stretched. Remove the bracket and rotor, keeping the friction surfaces clean.
Disconnect the ABS sensor and ball joint
Remove the axle nut's cotter pin and retainer, then disconnect the ABS sensor from its clips and unplug it. Remove the ball joint cotter pin and nut, then separate the joint from the knuckle with an approved tool.
Remove the old hub assembly
Remove the hub mounting bolts and withdraw the hub from the knuckle. Support the axle and avoid pulling on its CV joint or striking the ABS tone ring.
Install the replacement hub
Clean corrosion from the knuckle mounting surface and align the dust shield and ABS sensor notch. Seat the replacement hub squarely, start its bolts by hand, and tighten them to the manufacturer's specification.
Reconnect the ABS sensor and brakes
Reinstall the ABS sensor, reconnect its plug, and secure the wire in every original clip. Refit the ball joint with a new cotter pin, then reinstall the rotor, bracket, pads, and caliper to specification.
Torque the axle and wheel
Install the axle nut and locking hardware using the vehicle's torque and staking procedure. Reinstall the wheel and torque its nuts in a star pattern to specification.
Verify braking and ABS operation
Pump the brake pedal until firm before moving the car. Check that the ABS light performs its normal self-check, inspect the sensor and hose routing, and test the vehicle cautiously at low speed.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.