The wheels of the Mondeo rotate with maintenance-free double-row ball bearings. Modern rear axle bearings today can last about 150,000 km. The front axle wheel bearings, naturally, are loaded more heavily than the rear ones, so their service life is not as long. The wheel bearings in the Mondeo are installed during assembly, and if they are damaged, only a complete replacement is required. Upcoming repairs make themselves known in good time: worn bearings become "noticeable" by extremely loud noises from rotation. Breaking noises when turning right clearly indicate a defective front left bearing. Noises when turning left, respectively, on the right wheel bearing. It is better to delegate the replacement work to a workshop - the bearing, working ring, hub and steering gear pivot support are manufactured with very high tolerances. Proper installation requires the use of special tools. However, before visiting a workshop, carry out the following test:
- Place the car on asphalt or stone pavement. Grasp the wheel at the top and try to move it rhythmically across the longitudinal axis of the car. A faultless bearing copes with this silently and without a gap.
- If you find a large gap in the front wheel bearings during this check, have an assistant apply the brakes while you "rock" the wheel in question. If the gap still exists, look for the defective axle joint.