How to Replace Front Hub and Bearings 01-05 Honda Civic
Difficulty: Advanced · About 210 min · Honda Civic
Replace a front wheel bearing and hub on a 2001–2005 Honda Civic, removing the spindle and using a hydraulic press with matched bearing adapters; a machine shop can press the parts if you lack the equipment.
Tools you will need
- Torque Wrench
- Hammer
- Pry Bar
- 17mm Socket
- Jack Stands
- 19mm Socket
- 32mm Socket
- Flat Blade Screwdriver
- Center Punch
- 10mm Socket
- Floor Jack
- Needle nose pliers
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
- 22mm Socket
Parts and supplies
- Front wheel bearing and hub
- Axle nut and cotter pin
- Bearing snap ring
Steps
Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel
Loosen the wheel nuts and axle nut while the car is on the ground. Raise and support the front securely, then remove the wheel.
Remove the axle nut and caliper
Remove the axle nut and locking hardware. Remove the caliper bracket and support the caliper so its hose is not stretched, then set the brake assembly aside.
Separate the ball joint and spindle
Remove the ball joint cotter pin and castle nut, then separate the joint from the control arm with an approved separator. Remove the strut-to-spindle bolts and disconnect the ABS sensor carefully.
Remove the spindle and hub
Push the axle inward and remove the spindle from the vehicle. Use a press or hub puller to separate the hub from the bearing, then remove the snap ring and press the bearing out with proper support.
Press in the replacement bearing
Clean and inspect the spindle bore and snap ring groove. Press the new bearing in squarely while supporting the correct race, install the snap ring fully, and check it is seated around its entire circumference.
Press the hub into the bearing
Support the inner race so pressing the hub does not transmit force through the rolling elements. Press the hub in smoothly and verify it turns freely without play or roughness.
Reinstall the spindle and brakes
Guide the axle through the hub, reconnect the ball joint and strut, and tighten fasteners to Honda specifications. Reinstall the ABS sensor, rotor, caliper bracket, and caliper, routing the sensor wire correctly.
Torque the axle and wheel
Install the axle nut and cotter pin or locking retainer using the specified procedure. Reinstall and torque the wheel, pump the brake pedal until firm, and check for bearing noise or looseness before a cautious road test.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.