Suspension, tires and alignment
Wheel bearing / hub replacement (one wheel): what it costs
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $80 | $300 |
| Labor: 1.5 to 2.8 hours × $125 to $175 an hour | $188 | $490 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $25 |
| Total, rounded | $260 | $820 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in Boston, $31.54 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
A worn wheel bearing makes a humming or growling noise that rises with speed. It is replaced as a bearing or a whole hub assembly.
What is usually included
- New wheel bearing or hub assembly
- Brake caliper and rotor removal
- Torque to spec
- New axle nut
- Test drive
What moves the price
- Bolt-on hub versus pressed-in bearing
- Front versus rear
- ABS sensor built into the hub
- Rusted parts
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Which wheel is bad, and how did you find it?
- Is it a hub assembly or a bearing only?
- Is the ABS sensor affected?
- How long is the bearing and labor warranted?
Can you do it yourself?
Bolt-on hubs are a moderate DIY; pressed bearings need a shop press.
Shopping for the part? Search car parts on eBay (affiliate link, disclosure). Make sure the part fits your car before buying.
Common questions
How do I know a bearing is bad?
A humming or growling noise that gets louder with speed, and may change when you turn, is the main sign. You may also feel play or vibration in the wheel.
Is it dangerous?
Yes if ignored. A badly worn bearing can overheat or fail, and in extreme cases the wheel can lock or come loose. Get it checked as soon as you hear the noise.
Do I need a pair?
Not always. One bad bearing can be replaced alone, but the other side may be close to failing.
How much does wheel bearing / hub replacement (one wheel) cost?
A typical range in Boston is $260 to $820. That is an estimate from parts prices, labor hours and the local labor rate, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $260 to $820 |
| New York City area | $260 to $790 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $260 to $810 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $250 to $760 |
| Houston area, Texas | $230 to $740 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $230 to $740 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $240 to $750 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $250 to $760 |
| Miami area, Florida | $230 to $750 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $260 to $810 |