Wheel bearing

[sobayimage]

I have a 2009 Fusion Hybrid. When I was rotating the tires I found that the right front wheel would move about 3/8" when it was rocked back and forth. The left front wheel didn't move at all. Is 3/8" a lot of play in a front bearing for a Ford Fusion? I was told it was not a matter of just tightening the wheel nut but the bearing was a unit with the axle. Does the wheel bearing have to be replaced or can it be tightened?

[QuarkMeister]

I have a 2009 Fusion Hybrid. When I was rotating the tires I found that the right front wheel would move about 3/8" when it was rocked back and forth. The left front wheel didn't move at all. Is 3/8" a lot of play in a front bearing for a Ford Fusion? I was told it was not a matter of just tightening the wheel nut but the bearing was a unit with the axle. Does the wheel bearing have to be replaced or can it be tightened?

 

Check a front wheel bearing by placing your hands at the top and bottom of the tire with the vehicle suspended, then push and pull on opposite hands very systematically and accurately note any movement. Check for slight clunking noise at the same time. Fore and aft hand position will confuse wheel bearings with steering linkage movement. You probably already knew this so just a reminder....But; wheel bearings in a front wheel drive vehicle are not 'tightened' to reduce play - the axle passes through the bearings so if there is play as you describe and as severe, you need some service to that steering knuckle and axle support bearings.

Edited June 9, 2011 by QuarkMeister