2004 mazda3 front wheel bearings

[garland865]

I've done quite of bit of reasearch and can't seem to find these bearings or even if it's my problem(seems to be the front wheel bearing). Does anyone know if the loud vibration coming from the front could be the wheel bearings? If so does anyone know where I can purchase these and roughly how much they would cost. Also if you have any additional info on this issue it would be of great help i.e installation help, packing the old ones, or even how much/big a the task this will be. A picture of excatly what it looks like would alsobe helpful. I also am having problems with the fan blowing on the A/C and heater. Both work fan just decide to come on out of the blue when it feels like it.
Desperate in Texas,
Rob

 

[TheMAN]

there's axle BOLT issues with the 04s... look in the FAQ for TSBs... also there's an issue with the wheel bearings shifting IIRC... also a TSB for that

 

[chrissor]

it is a wheel bearing issue. unless you have a press you will not be able to do it yourself.

 

[Panic]

Front bearings

I also have an '04 s. I had to have the front bearings replaced at about 85000 miles. I bought it used with about 70k miles on it, so I don't know what the previous owner did to it, but I'm also in the process of putting on new OEM dampers all around. Probably not a coincidence.

I knew the bearings were bad when the car made this loud grinding noise just rolling down my driveway. Not tire noise ... not the brakes ... sounded like I was plowing gravel.

Replacing the bearings cost about $900. I was not happy.

 

[MightyMouse]

Quick question, I am doing the front wheel bearings on my 05 Sport this afternoon and forgot to bring my service manual in to work. My car uses the bolt for the wheel bearing (as apposed to the spindle nut I have seen on other 3's (sedans only?)) Anybody have the torque spec handy for the BOLT on the front wheel bearing?

I will also be adding front brake dust sheilds from an 07 Sport at the same time, will see how that goes......

 

[chrissor]

Quick question, I am doing the front wheel bearings on my 05 Sport this afternoon and forgot to bring my service manual in to work. My car uses the bolt for the wheel bearing (as apposed to the spindle nut I have seen on other 3's (sedans only?)) Anybody have the torque spec handy for the BOLT on the front wheel bearing?

I will also be adding front brake dust sheilds from an 07 Sport at the same time, will see how that goes......

iirc its 29ft lbs plus 90 degrees.

 

[MightyMouse]

iirc its 29ft lbs plus 90 degrees.

Thanks!

 

[chrissor]

no prob. its a stretch bolt so remember always get a new one. but seeing as your a tech aswell you know that lol

 

[MightyMouse]

Yup, it's all good, new bearings (and bolts ) are in.....thanks.