A Ford Escort Owner's Guide to Wheel Bearing Replacement (1985-1990)
Addressing that humming, grinding, or roaring noise coming from your Escort's wheels.
- A humming or growling noise that changes with speed is the number one sign of a bad wheel bearing.
- Driving with a bad wheel bearing is dangerous and can lead to the wheel separating from the car.
- Front bearing replacement on this Escort requires a hydraulic press and is a job best left to a professional shop.
- For best results and longevity, choose a premium aftermarket brand like SKF or NSK.
Is Your Escort's Wheel Bearing Failing?
After decades of use, the wheel bearings on a 1985-1990 Ford Escort are common wear items. The grease inside breaks down, and the metal surfaces wear out from heat, moisture, and countless miles. The most common sign of a bad wheel bearing is a noise coming from one corner of the car. You might hear:
- Humming or Growling: This is the classic symptom. The noise gets louder as you drive faster and may change pitch or disappear when you turn. 🎬 Watch: How to tell which wheel bearing is bad For example, a bad bearing on the left side may get louder when you steer right, as more weight is put on it.
- Vibration: You might feel a vibration through the steering wheel that worsens with speed.
- Loose Steering: The steering may feel sloppy or less responsive than usual. 🎬 Watch: How to check for sound and wheel play
Safety First: A Bad Bearing is a Failed Bearing
A noisy wheel bearing has already failed internally. Continuing to drive is a significant safety risk. The bearing can overheat and seize, or wear to the point that the wheel becomes dangerously loose and could even separate from the vehicle. It is strongly recommended to stop driving the car until it can be repaired.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Wheel Bearing
For a vehicle from this era, new original equipment (OEM) parts from Ford are generally not available. The aftermarket is your primary source, offering a range of quality and price points. Modern aftermarket bearings from reputable brands often meet or exceed the original 1980s specifications.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium Brands (SKF, NSK): Brands like SKF and NSK are global leaders and often supply bearings directly to car manufacturers. They are known for high-quality materials and precision engineering, offering the best long-term reliability. Choosing a premium brand is a smart investment to avoid doing the job twice.
- Standard Brands (Beck Arnley): Beck Arnley sources parts from various manufacturers, which often includes top-tier suppliers. They are generally considered a reliable choice, though the exact manufacturer of the bearing inside the box can vary.
- Economy Brands (Mevotech): Mevotech offers a budget-friendly option. While some users have success with their parts, others report a shorter lifespan compared to premium brands. These can be a choice if the budget is the primary concern, but may not offer the same durability.
A Note on Installation
The front wheel bearings on the 1985-1990 Escort are a press-in design. This means the entire steering knuckle must be removed from the car and taken to a workbench. A hydraulic shop press is required to safely remove the old bearing and install the new one without damaging it. Attempting to hammer a new bearing in will destroy it and lead to immediate failure. This is not considered a simple DIY job 🎬 See this walkthrough of the front wheel bearing replacement for most home mechanics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace wheel bearings in pairs?
While not strictly required, it is highly recommended. If one bearing has failed due to age and mileage, the one on the other side of the same axle has endured the same conditions and is likely near the end of its life too. Replacing them in pairs saves you from having to do the same job again in the near future.
Why is a shop press required for the front bearings?
The bearing is fitted into the steering knuckle with an interference fit, meaning it is slightly larger than the hole it goes into. A hydraulic press applies slow, even pressure to force the bearing into place without damaging the sensitive internal rollers and races. Using a hammer or other impact method will dent the races, causing the new bearing to be noisy and fail very quickly.
What causes a wheel bearing to fail?
The primary cause is simply age and mileage. Over time, the grease that lubricates the bearing breaks down or becomes contaminated with water and dirt. Hitting potholes, curbs, or even an improperly torqued axle nut can also accelerate wear and lead to premature failure.
Were there any recalls for my Escort's wheel bearings?
No. A search of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database shows no safety recalls specifically for the wheel bearings on the 1985-1990 Ford Escort.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
The 1985-1990 Ford Escort uses a press-in style tapered roller bearing for the front wheels. The rear wheels also use tapered roller bearings.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Escort: