3 Steps to Fix Wheel Center Bearing Howls
If noise produced by the wheel centre bearing has appeared recently, it can often be eliminated with the help of XADO Repairing Grease. Thanks to its high concentration of Revitalizant®, this grease removes accumulated wear in friction pairs and restores smooth operation. Bearing noise is more than an annoyance — it signals wear, poor lubrication, or contamination that can lead to costly repairs if ignored.
In this article, we’ll outline 3 key steps to silence wheel center bearing howls, explain why they occur, and show how XADO solutions can restore performance and extend service life.
Step 1: Diagnose the Cause of Bearing Noise
Wheel bearing howls are typically caused by one of three issues: insufficient lubrication, contamination (dust, water, or road debris), or mechanical wear. A thorough inspection is essential before applying grease. Look for scratches, chips, or craters deeper than 0.1 mm on the bearing tracks, and ensure the bearing cage is intact. If damage is severe, replacement may be required.
For more insights into related mechanical issues, see our Transmission Oil Leakage guide.
Step 2: Apply XADO Repairing Grease
Once the bearing is cleaned and flushed of old grease, pack it with XADO Repairing Grease. Fill at least two-thirds of the free inner volume to ensure proper coverage. The Revitalizant® in the grease forms a protective layer on friction surfaces, reducing noise and restoring smooth rotation. After 1,200–1,800 miles of operation, you should notice a significant decrease in noise levels.
Step 3: Replace with Long-Term Grease
After 5,000–6,200 km of run with XADO Repairing Grease and complete elimination of the defect, it is recommended to replace the grease with XADO Grease for Constant Velocity Joints. This ensures long-term protection and stable performance under heavy loads.
Recommended Products
XADO Repairing Grease is designed to restore worn bearings and reduce noise quickly. For ongoing maintenance, switch to XADO CV Joint Grease for long-term stability.
Product Benefits
- Eliminates bearing noise caused by wear and poor lubrication
- Restores friction surfaces with Revitalizant® technology
- Protects against contamination and corrosion
- Extends bearing service life and reliability
- Suitable for wheel bearings and CV joints
Application Instructions
Disassemble the unit, clean the bearing of old grease, and flush it thoroughly. Inspect for damage before packing with XADO Repairing Grease. Fill at least 2/3 of the free inner volume. After 1,200–1,800 miles, noise reduction should be observed. For severe contamination, repeat the process and monitor performance.
For more background on bearing lubrication principles, see this bearing overview. It explains how proper lubrication prevents wear and noise in mechanical systems.
Conclusion
Wheel center bearing howls are a clear sign of wear or poor lubrication. By following these 3 steps — diagnosing the cause, applying XADO Repairing Grease, and switching to long-term CV joint grease — you can restore quiet operation and extend bearing life. Explore more solutions in our Turbocharger Oil Consumption blog and Cooling System Instability guide.