Ford Explorer XLT Rear Hub Bearing Replacement Guide

Replacing the rear hub bearing on your 2018 Ford Explorer XLT might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, a bit of patience, and this detailed guide, you can confidently tackle this DIY project. Guys, we're going to walk through each step, ensuring you save money and gain a sense of accomplishment. This article provides a step-by-step guide on replacing the rear hub bearing on a 2018 Ford Explorer XLT. We will cover everything from identifying the symptoms of a failing hub bearing to the actual replacement process, including required tools and essential safety precautions. So, let's dive in and get your Explorer back on the road smoothly!

Understanding Rear Hub Bearings

Before we get our hands dirty, let's understand what rear hub bearings are and why they're so important. Your vehicle's wheel hub bearings are crucial components that allow your wheels to rotate smoothly and quietly. These bearings sit between the wheel hub and the axle, reducing friction and enabling the wheels to spin freely. Think of them as the unsung heroes of your car's suspension system! Over time, these bearings can wear out due to factors like age, mileage, and driving conditions. When a hub bearing fails, it can lead to a variety of issues, including noise, vibration, and even reduced handling. Recognizing the symptoms of a failing hub bearing early can prevent more significant problems down the road. Replacing a worn or damaged wheel hub bearing promptly is essential for maintaining your vehicle's safety and performance. The wheel hub bearing assembly is a critical part of your vehicle's suspension system, responsible for ensuring smooth and efficient wheel rotation. It is located at the center of the wheel and connects the wheel to the axle. The bearing itself is designed to reduce friction, allowing the wheel to spin freely. A faulty wheel hub bearing can compromise your vehicle's handling and safety, so it's important to address any issues promptly. The wheel hub bearing is a crucial component in the vehicle's suspension system, facilitating smooth wheel rotation. Positioned between the wheel hub and the axle, it minimizes friction, allowing the wheels to spin freely. Over time, these bearings can wear out due to various factors such as age, mileage, and driving conditions, leading to several problems such as noise, vibration, and reduced handling. Timely replacement of a worn wheel hub bearing is essential to maintain vehicle safety and performance. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed, step-by-step procedure to help you replace the rear hub bearing on your 2018 Ford Explorer XLT, ensuring a safe and smooth ride. Understanding the function and importance of the wheel hub bearing will help you appreciate the need for timely maintenance and replacement. It is advisable to replace the bearings in pairs to ensure balanced performance and avoid uneven wear. A well-maintained wheel hub bearing contributes to the overall safety and reliability of your vehicle.

Identifying Symptoms of a Failing Hub Bearing

Catching a failing hub bearing early can save you from more extensive repairs. So, what are the telltale signs? One of the most common symptoms is a distinctive humming or growling noise that gets louder as your speed increases. This noise often changes in intensity when you turn, especially at higher speeds. Another sign is a vibration in the steering wheel or floorboard, which can also worsen with speed. You might also notice uneven tire wear, which indicates that the wheel isn't rotating correctly. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to inspect your hub bearings as soon as possible. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more serious issues, such as wheel instability or even wheel separation, which can be extremely dangerous. Regularly checking for these symptoms will help you maintain your vehicle's safety and performance. A failing wheel hub bearing can manifest in various ways, and recognizing these signs early can prevent further damage. The most common symptom is an unusual noise coming from the wheels. This noise is often described as a humming, growling, or rumbling sound that increases in intensity as the vehicle's speed rises. The sound may also change or become more pronounced when the vehicle turns, as the load shifts on the bearings. Another common symptom is excessive play or looseness in the wheel. If you notice your vehicle pulling to one side or experiencing vibrations, especially at higher speeds, it could indicate a failing hub bearing. Uneven tire wear is another telltale sign, as a faulty bearing can cause the wheel to wobble or not rotate smoothly, leading to irregular wear patterns on the tires. If you suspect a failing wheel hub bearing, it's crucial to inspect it promptly. Neglecting these warning signs can lead to more severe damage to other components, such as the axle and suspension system, and can ultimately compromise your vehicle's safety. Early detection and replacement of a failing wheel hub bearing will ensure a smoother, safer, and more reliable driving experience. Regular maintenance checks and inspections can help identify potential issues before they escalate.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start the replacement, gather all the necessary tools and materials. This will make the process smoother and more efficient. Here's a comprehensive list:

• New rear hub bearing assembly
• Jack and jack stands
• Wheel chocks
• Socket set (metric)
• Wrench set (metric)
• Torque wrench
• Brake caliper tool or C-clamp
• Hammer
• Penetrating oil
• Gloves
• Safety glasses
• Brake cleaner
• Shop towels
• Optional: Impact wrench, slide hammer with hub puller attachment

Having all these tools on hand will help you complete the job efficiently and safely. Safety glasses are a must to protect your eyes from debris, and gloves will keep your hands clean and protected. An impact wrench can be a real time-saver for removing stubborn bolts, and a slide hammer with a hub puller attachment can make removing the old hub bearing much easier. However, these are not essential if you're working with basic tools. Investing in quality tools can make a significant difference in the ease and success of your repair. Before commencing the replacement of the rear hub bearing on your 2018 Ford Explorer XLT, it is essential to assemble all the necessary tools and materials. Proper preparation ensures a smooth and efficient repair process. Start with the new rear hub bearing assembly, which is the primary component for the replacement. You will need a reliable jack and sturdy jack stands to safely lift and support the vehicle. Wheel chocks are crucial to prevent the vehicle from rolling. A comprehensive socket set and wrench set in metric sizes will be needed to loosen and tighten various bolts and nuts. A torque wrench is vital for tightening fasteners to the manufacturer's specified torque, ensuring proper assembly and safety. A brake caliper tool or C-clamp will help compress the brake caliper piston, making it easier to remove and reinstall the caliper. A hammer may be required to gently tap components loose, and penetrating oil can be used to loosen rusted or corroded parts. Safety is paramount, so wear gloves to protect your hands and safety glasses to shield your eyes from debris. Brake cleaner is useful for cleaning brake components, and shop towels will help keep your work area clean. For added convenience, an impact wrench can significantly speed up the removal of stubborn bolts, and a slide hammer with a hub puller attachment can simplify the removal of the old hub bearing. Ensuring you have all the necessary tools and materials readily available will help streamline the replacement process and ensure a successful repair.

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: the replacement process. Follow these steps carefully for a successful rear hub bearing replacement on your 2018 Ford Explorer XLT.

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

1. Park your Explorer on a level surface.
2. Engage the parking brake.
3. Place wheel chocks behind the front wheels.
4. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you'll be working on (but don't remove them yet).
5. Use the jack to lift the vehicle and securely place jack stands under the frame.
6. Remove the wheel.

Safety First: Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle. Never rely solely on the jack to support the vehicle's weight.

Step 2: Remove the Brake Caliper and Rotor

1. Locate the brake caliper bolts (usually two bolts on the back of the caliper).
2. Remove the bolts using the appropriate socket or wrench.
3. Carefully slide the brake caliper off the rotor. If it's stuck, gently wiggle it or use a rubber mallet to tap it loose. Don't let the caliper hang by the brake hose; secure it to the suspension with a bungee cord or wire.
4. Remove the brake pads from the caliper.
5. Remove the brake caliper bracket bolts (usually two larger bolts).
6. Remove the brake caliper bracket.
7. Slide the brake rotor off the wheel hub. If it's stuck, try tapping it gently with a hammer, or use penetrating oil and a few more firm taps.

Step 3: Remove the Hub Bearing Assembly

1. Locate the hub bearing assembly bolts (usually four bolts on the back of the hub).
2. Spray the bolts with penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes.
3. Remove the bolts. If they're stubborn, use an impact wrench or a breaker bar for extra leverage.
4. If the hub bearing assembly doesn't come off easily, use a slide hammer with a hub puller attachment. Follow the instructions for your specific slide hammer tool.
5. If you don't have a slide hammer, you can try tapping the hub bearing assembly from the back with a hammer. Be careful not to damage the surrounding components.

Step 4: Install the New Hub Bearing Assembly

1. Clean the mounting surface on the vehicle's knuckle with a wire brush or brake cleaner.
2. Align the new hub bearing assembly with the mounting holes.
3. Install the hub bearing assembly bolts and tighten them hand-tight.
4. Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque (refer to your vehicle's repair manual for the correct torque specifications).

Step 5: Reinstall the Brake Components

1. Slide the brake rotor onto the wheel hub.
2. Install the brake caliper bracket and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
3. Install the brake pads into the caliper.
4. Slide the brake caliper over the rotor and brake pads.
5. Install the brake caliper bolts and tighten them to the specified torque.

Step 6: Reinstall the Wheel and Final Steps

1. Mount the wheel onto the hub.
2. Install the lug nuts and tighten them hand-tight.
3. Lower the vehicle using the jack.
4. Remove the jack stands.
5. Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque in a star pattern.
6. Double-check all bolts and connections.
7. Take the vehicle for a test drive and listen for any unusual noises.

Replacing a rear hub bearing on a 2018 Ford Explorer XLT involves several detailed steps to ensure a safe and effective repair. Starting with preparation, it's crucial to park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the front wheels. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you'll be working on before lifting the vehicle with a jack and securing it on jack stands. Remove the wheel to access the brake components and hub assembly. The next step involves removing the brake caliper and rotor. Begin by locating and removing the brake caliper bolts, then carefully slide the brake caliper off the rotor. It's important not to let the caliper hang by the brake hose; instead, secure it to the suspension with a bungee cord or wire. Remove the brake pads from the caliper, followed by the brake caliper bracket bolts and the bracket itself. Slide the brake rotor off the wheel hub. If it's stuck, tapping it gently with a hammer or using penetrating oil can help. With the brake components removed, you can proceed to remove the hub bearing assembly. Locate the hub bearing assembly bolts on the back of the hub, spray them with penetrating oil, and remove them. If the assembly doesn't come off easily, a slide hammer with a hub puller attachment can be used. Alternatively, tapping the hub bearing assembly from the back with a hammer may help, but caution should be exercised to avoid damaging surrounding components. Installing the new hub bearing assembly requires cleaning the mounting surface on the vehicle's knuckle with a wire brush or brake cleaner. Align the new assembly with the mounting holes, install the bolts hand-tight, and then use a torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer's specified torque. Reinstall the brake components by sliding the brake rotor onto the wheel hub, installing the brake caliper bracket and tightening its bolts to the specified torque. Insert the brake pads into the caliper, slide the caliper over the rotor and brake pads, and secure it with the caliper bolts, again tightened to the specified torque. Finally, reinstall the wheel by mounting it onto the hub, tightening the lug nuts hand-tight, lowering the vehicle, removing the jack stands, and using a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque in a star pattern. Double-check all bolts and connections before taking the vehicle for a test drive to ensure everything is functioning correctly. This detailed, step-by-step approach ensures a thorough and safe rear hub bearing replacement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this guide provides a comprehensive overview, it's easy to make mistakes if you're not careful. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid during a hub bearing replacement:

• Stripping bolts: Always use the correct size socket or wrench, and apply even pressure when loosening or tightening bolts. If a bolt is particularly stubborn, penetrating oil and patience are your best friends.
• Damaging brake lines: Be extremely careful when handling the brake caliper. Never let it hang by the brake hose, as this can damage the line and lead to a brake fluid leak.
• Incorrect torque: Using the wrong torque can lead to loose components or damaged threads. Always use a torque wrench and refer to your vehicle's repair manual for the correct specifications.
• Forgetting safety precautions: Always wear safety glasses and gloves, and never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Jack stands are essential for safety.
• Neglecting ABS sensor: Be careful when handling the ABS sensor, as it can be easily damaged. Disconnect it carefully and ensure it's properly reconnected during reassembly.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure a smooth and successful rear hub bearing replacement. Taking the time to do the job correctly the first time will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Knowing what to avoid during a hub bearing replacement can significantly improve the outcome and ensure the longevity of your repair. One common mistake is stripping bolts. To prevent this, always use the correct size socket or wrench and apply even pressure when loosening or tightening bolts. If a bolt is particularly stubborn, applying penetrating oil and waiting for it to work can make a big difference. Patience is key in these situations. Damaging brake lines is another frequent error. When handling the brake caliper, never let it hang by the brake hose. This can stress the line and potentially cause a leak. Instead, secure the caliper to the suspension with a bungee cord or wire. Using incorrect torque when tightening bolts is a critical mistake. Under-tightening can lead to components coming loose, while over-tightening can damage threads. Always use a torque wrench and consult your vehicle's repair manual for the correct torque specifications. Ignoring safety precautions is a serious oversight. Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself, and never work under a vehicle that is supported only by a jack. Jack stands are essential for providing a secure and stable working environment. Neglecting the ABS sensor is also a common issue. This sensor is delicate and can be easily damaged if not handled with care. Disconnect it carefully during the process and ensure it is properly reconnected during reassembly. By being mindful of these common mistakes and taking the necessary precautions, you can avoid potential problems and ensure a successful hub bearing replacement. Attention to detail and adherence to proper procedures are key to a job well done.

Conclusion

Replacing the rear hub bearing on your 2018 Ford Explorer XLT is a manageable task with the right knowledge and tools. By following this guide and avoiding common mistakes, you can save money on labor costs and ensure your Explorer is running smoothly and safely. Remember, if you're ever unsure about a step, it's always best to consult a professional mechanic. But for those who are comfortable with DIY car repairs, this project can be a rewarding experience. Happy wrenching, guys! In conclusion, the rear hub bearing replacement on a 2018 Ford Explorer XLT, while seemingly complex, is an achievable task for the DIY enthusiast equipped with the correct knowledge, tools, and a meticulous approach. By diligently following the comprehensive steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently undertake the replacement process, saving on labor costs and ensuring your vehicle operates smoothly and safely. It is paramount to adhere to safety precautions and avoid common pitfalls, such as stripping bolts, damaging brake lines, or neglecting the ABS sensor. Remember, precision and patience are key to a successful outcome. Should uncertainty arise at any stage, consulting a professional mechanic is always a prudent course of action. However, for those comfortable with automotive repairs, this project offers a rewarding opportunity to gain practical experience and enhance your vehicle maintenance skills. The satisfaction derived from successfully completing such a task can be immense. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle, contributing to a more confident and secure driving experience. With careful planning and execution, replacing the rear hub bearing on your Ford Explorer XLT can be a fulfilling endeavor, empowering you to take control of your vehicle's maintenance and well-being.