Honda S2000 Wheel Bearing Replacement Guide (2000-2009)
Everything you need to know before replacing the wheel bearings on your AP1 or AP2 S2000.
- A humming or grinding noise that gets louder with speed is the #1 symptom of a failing S2000 wheel bearing.
- Replacement requires a hydraulic press; this is not a simple bolt-off, bolt-on job.
- Use a high-quality aftermarket brand like Timken, NSK, SKF, or NTN to avoid doing the job twice.
- Always inspect the wheel hub for wear and replace it if damaged to protect the new bearing.
Is Your S2000 Making a Grinding or Humming Noise?
A failing wheel bearing is a common issue on the 2000-2009 Honda S2000. The most frequent symptom is a noise coming from one of the wheels. This noise can be described as a hum, rumble, or grinding sound that gets louder as you drive faster. 🎬 Watch a mechanic diagnose and fix a common S2000 bearing noise. A good way to identify which bearing is bad is to pay attention while turning; the noise often gets louder when turning in the direction opposite the failing bearing (e.g., turning right loads the left wheel bearing). In some cases, you might also feel looseness or a lack of precision in the steering.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Quality for the S2000
For the S2000, choosing a quality bearing is important. The replacement process is labor-intensive, so you don't want to use a cheap part that will fail prematurely.
- OEM-Tier Brands: Honda's original bearings were likely made by NSK or NTN. These brands, along with Timken, SKF, and FAG, are considered top-tier choices that offer OEM quality or better. Many S2000 owners on forums report using Timken bearings with great success as a high-quality, more affordable alternative to dealer parts.
- Mid-Grade & Economy Brands: Brands like GMB, WJB, Mevotech, and National are generally more budget-friendly. While some owners use them without issue, the consensus for a performance car like the S2000 is to invest in a premium bearing to ensure longevity and preserve handling characteristics.
Pro Tip: Inspect the Hub!
When you replace the bearing, you or your mechanic MUST inspect the wheel hub. If the old bearing failed, it could have damaged the surface of the hub where the new bearing sits. Reusing a worn hub will cause the new bearing to fail very quickly. If there's any doubt, replace the hub at the same time.
What to Expect for Replacement Costs
The cost to replace an S2000 wheel bearing varies based on shop labor rates and the parts you choose. Because this job requires a hydraulic press, labor is a significant part of the cost.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Bearing | $31 - $73 |
| New OEM Bearing | $56 - $158 |
| Shop Labor (per wheel) | $160 - $235+ |
| Total Professional Job (per wheel) | $215 - $400+ |
Known Issues, Recalls, or TSBs
Searches for official recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Honda or the NHTSA did not find any specific issues related to wheel bearings for the 2000-2009 Honda S2000. Failures are typically due to normal wear and tear over time and mileage.
This is NOT a Simple DIY Job
Unlike cars with bolt-on wheel hub assemblies, the S2000 uses press-in bearings. This means the entire steering knuckle must be removed 🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide for front wheel bearing and hub replacement. from the car and taken to a workbench. A 20-ton hydraulic shop press is required to push the old bearing out and the new one in without causing damage. Attempting this without the right tools will result in damaged parts. Many DIYers choose to remove the knuckle themselves and then take it to a local machine shop for the press work, which costs around $160.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace the hub with the bearing?
Not always, but it's critical to inspect it. If the old bearing was badly worn, it could have damaged the hub surface. A worn hub will destroy a new bearing in a short amount of time. If the hub shows any signs of wear or scoring, it must be replaced.
Are the front and rear wheel bearings the same?
Yes, for the Honda S2000, the same wheel bearing part number is used for all four corners 🎬 See how to replace the rear wheel hub and bearing. of the car, which simplifies ordering.
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing a wheel bearing?
Yes. Because the entire steering knuckle and parts of the suspension are removed to perform the replacement, a four-wheel alignment is highly recommended to ensure your S2000's handling is correct and to prevent uneven tire wear.
What is the axle nut torque spec?
The 36mm axle nut must be torqued to a very high 242 lb-ft. This is a critical step. An under-torqued axle nut can cause the new bearing to fail prematurely.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 44300-S84-A02 44300-S84-A01
The wheel bearing is the same for the front and rear on all 2000-2009 S2000 models. The axle nut requires a 36mm socket and must be torqued to 242 lb-ft.
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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.
- Honda S2000: