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Automotive/Toyota - wheel bearings

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Expert: Sean Halliday - 9/2/2006


Question
I just had my front driver side wheel bearing replaced two days ago. Yesterday I drove about 200 km's away from home and it is making the same noise again. My question is - is it safe to drive in this condition for 200kms or do I have to have it towed?

It is a 2000 Toyota Echo

Answer
If it is the same problem then it is not good to drive on a bad wheel bearing as it could freeze up and lock the hub.It is really your call as i dont know how badly worn or how much noise it makes,if its a slight (hum)then it probably will get you home but if its really loud i would tow it back to whoever fixed it first time.Did you try to tighten the hub axle nut as it may be loose,,,?Thats the big one in the center of the wheel ,usually under the  grease cap.....any decent tire shop will look at it for you.Shouldnt charge you that much.Maybe ask their opinion while youre there just how bad it is.

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Sean Halliday

Expertise

general auto repair,japanese,bmw,mercedes,mini cooper 1960/2009,general british cars,ford.I DO NOT work on automatic transmissions.Manual transissions i install clutches only.Many people ask me to diagnose noises from their cars,unfortunately i cannot do this unless i hear it.As you appreciate,vehicles can and will make a variety of noises.I DONT UPGRADE or fit aftermarket performace kits,parts,chips,only replacement parts.

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40 years experience on all general auto repair.

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