Had the car in for an alignment and the mechnic said the rear wheel bearing needed to be replaced.

1) Other then getting a second opinion, wow do I tell if he's saying the truth or blowing smoke up my a**

2) The car is running fine. If I don't get fixed, what's the downside?

 

Mine needs to be replaced too. Drive on it for a little while. If you hear a groaning noise when you're idling (with your foot off the brake) or moving slow, they are grinding. If you don't replace them, your rear alignment will mess up.

 

okay, so alighnment but no permanent/more expensive damage. The mechinc said if I didn't do it crap would get in that area and corode the entire assembly.

I have a deal where I can get my alignment done as often as I want for free so that's not a big deal.

 

Well don't take my word for it because that was all I was told by another member. Your mechanic may be right in this case. I would take it to get a second opinion or ask some local mechanics what they think. I'm no expert at it.

 

1. check for play in the rear wheel. it's almost like a bad ball joint/tie rod. get the rear wheels in the air and try to move the wheel...if there's play in the wheel then the bearings are going/gone.

2. if you don't get it fixed your tires will wear out in some abnormal pattern. you'll also hear more noise from the bearings wearing out.

 

The alognment may be free but replaces the tires from abnormal wear is not going to be covered. May be cheaper just doing it now than waiting and buying new tires and then having it done anyhow.

SuDZ