Checking the wheel bearing clearance (Focus Turnier 1)

The Focus' wheels rotate on double ball bearings that are maintenance-free. Modern rear axle wheel bearings are designed to last around 150,000 km. The front axle wheel bearings are naturally subject to greater stress than the rear ones, and often don't last as long. The Focus' wheel bearings are adjusted during installation, and if they are damaged, the only option is to replace them completely.

An upcoming repair will give you a hint: worn wheel bearings are hard to miss by their loud noise. Grinding noises on right turns indicate a defective wheel bearing on the left in front, noise on left turns indicates a defective right wheel bearing. It"s better to imagine a workshop replacement: bearings, their races, hub and steering swivel bearing are manufactured with very tight tolerances. Professional installation requires special tools. But before you go to the workshop, do the following test:

• Place the car on a rocky or asphalt surface. Grasp the wheel at the top edge and try to move it rhythmically across the longitudinal axis of the car. Perfect bearings will endure this silently and without any play.
• If you notice play in the front wheel bearings: Have your assistant apply the brakes and check again. If there is still play, you have a faulty bearing.

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