Wheel Bearing Noise?

What it means.

Wheel Bearing Noise in Vehicles

Hear a Humming, Grinding, or Growling Sound While Driving?


If you’re hearing a humming, growling, or grinding noise that gets louder as your speed increases, your vehicle may have a worn or failing wheel bearing. Wheel bearings are small but critical components that allow your wheels to rotate smoothly — and when they start to fail, they can quickly lead to bigger and more expensive problems.


At Auto Select, our ASE-certified technicians have the tools and experience to diagnose and repair wheel bearing issues quickly and correctly — keeping you safe and your vehicle driving smoothly.


Common Signs of a Bad Wheel Bearing


If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule an inspection:


  • Humming or growling noise that changes with speed or when turning
  • Grinding sound coming from one corner of the vehicle
  • Vibration in the steering wheel or vehicle body while driving
  • Uneven tire wear or loose-feeling steering
  • ABS warning light on your dashboard


Wheel bearings don’t repair themselves — catching the issue early can prevent further damage to your suspension, steering, and brakes.


What Causes Wheel Bearings to Go Bad?


Several factors can lead to premature bearing wear, including:

  • Normal wear and tear from high mileage
  • Driving through water, salt, or mud (common in Wisconsin winters)
  • Hitting potholes or curbs
  • Improper wheel alignment or unbalanced tires


Our Wheel Bearing Inspection & Repair Process


When you bring your vehicle to Auto Select, our technicians will:

  1. Test drive your vehicle to listen for bearing-related noises
  2. Inspect all four wheels, hubs, and suspension components
  3. Check for play or roughness in wheel movement
  4. Replace worn bearings using high-quality OEM or premium parts
  5. Torque and road test to confirm a quiet, smooth ride


We back our work with a 3 year, 36,000 warranty on parts and labor so you can drive away with confidence.


Don’t Ignore That Noise — Schedule an Inspection Today!

If your vehicle is making unusual noises, especially when turning or at highway speeds, don’t wait until it becomes unsafe. Let our local experts at Auto Select pinpoint the problem before it leads to a breakdown.