Wheel Bearings

February 23, 2004

Hi All - I have a 99 T Avensis 2L TD Estate, which has 130,000 miles on the clock.

I'm getting a low rumble which appears to be wheel noise (build up speed, bang it in neutral and roll - noise continues at same level, therefore not engine or gearbox, thank goodness), which I'm guessing may be front wheel bearing related.

There is also a "clonk" on pulling away / (relitavely) abrupt change in revs / torque which started at about the time that the rumbling was initially noted - poss. suspension noise, I guess, so it may be unconnected.

2 questions - a) apart from what I've done, plus jacking up the front end and trying to rock the bearings and see if there is free play (none with car on the floor), has anyone else had this, and if so, is my quick diagnosis likely to be right, and B) how much of a nightmare is bearing replacement given a suitable puller and all the normal workshop tools (but obviously no Toyota-specific tools). Are there workshop sheets for this job?

Thanks for your help!

February 23, 2004

Bearings are fairly straight forward as long as you can prise it out of the hub carrier. They can also seize on the hub itself. You should be able to get a OEM bearing for around £30. The Carina E are obtainable at £25 locally (Salop) and I very much suspect yours are very similar.