Hub and bearing assembly (rear) — removal and installation
Warning: Dust created by the brake system is harmful to your health. Never blow it out with compressed air and don’t inhale any of it. Do not, under any circumstances, use petroleum-based solvents to clean brake parts. Use brake system cleaner only.
Note: The strut assembly should not be disassembled by the home mechanic. The assembly can be removed, however, and taken to a dealer service department or other repair shop to have the bearing replaced.
1. On AWD models, loosen the rear drive axle/hub nut (see Driveline).
2. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands. Block the front wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Remove the wheel.
Removal
3. If you’re working on an AWD model, remove the drive axle/hub nut (see Driveline).
4. Remove the brake caliper and disc (see Brakes).
5. Unplug the electrical connector from the ABS wheel speed sensor (2WD models) or remove the rear wheel speed sensor (AWD models) (see Brakes).
6. Remove the hub and bearing mounting bolts from the back side of the knuckle (see illustration).
i. 6 Rear hub and bearing mounting bolts
7. Remove the hub and bearing assembly.
If you’re working on an AWD model, it might be necessary to tap the drive axle through the hub splines as the hub and bearing is withdrawn. If the drive axle sticks in the hub, use a puller to push it out of the hub splines.
Installation
8. If you’re working on an AWD model, lubricate the splines of the drive axle with multi-purpose grease.
9. Position the hub and bearing assembly on the rear knuckle (guiding the drive axle into the hub splines on AWD models) and install the bolts. After all, four bolts have been installed, tighten them to the torque listed in this Chapter’s Specifications.
10. If you’re working on an AWD model, install a new drive axle/hub nut.
11. Install the brake disc, caliper, speed sensor and the wheel.
12. Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the torque listed in the Tune-up and routine maintenance Specifications. On AWD models tighten the drive axle/ hub nut to the torque listed in the Driveline Specifications, then stake the collar of the nut into the slot in the drive axle.