A Guide to Wheel Bearings for the 2005-2010 Scion tC
Stop the humming and grinding noises by choosing the right replacement wheel bearing for your tC.
- The 2005-2010 Scion tC uses a press-in bearing for the front wheels and a simpler bolt-on hub assembly for the rear.
- Front bearing replacement is a difficult job requiring special tools; the rear is much more DIY-friendly.
- Symptoms include humming/grinding noises that change when turning, wheel looseness, and potential ABS light activation.
- For best results, choose premium brands like SKF, Timken, or NSK, and always replace the hub with the front bearing.
Is Your Scion tC Making a Grinding or Humming Noise?
One of the most common signs of a failing wheel bearing is noise. You might hear a humming, rumbling, or grinding sound that gets louder as you drive faster. Often, the noise will change when you turn. For example, if the front-left bearing is bad, the noise might get louder when you turn right, and quieter when you turn left, as the weight shifts. 🎬 Watch: How to tell which wheel bearing is bad Other symptoms include a vibration you can feel in the steering wheel or floor, or a noticeable looseness or "play" if you try to wiggle the tire. In some cases, a failing bearing can also trigger the ABS warning light on your dashboard.
Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
As of now, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Scion or the NHTSA directly related to premature or widespread failure of the wheel bearings on the 2005-2010 Scion tC. Failures are generally due to normal wear and tear over time and mileage. However, some owners report repeat failures, which can sometimes be caused by improper installation or issues with other suspension components like struts or loose strut mount bolts that put extra stress on the new bearing.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Wheel Bearing
When replacing a wheel bearing on your tC, you have many aftermarket options. The original factory bearings are typically high-quality brands like Koyo or NSK. While you can buy OEM parts from a dealer, many aftermarket brands offer similar or better quality for less money. They can be grouped into tiers:
- Premium Brands (SKF, Timken, FAG, NSK): These are top-tier manufacturers known for excellent quality and durability. They use high-grade steel and advanced seal designs to keep out dirt and moisture. Choosing one of these brands is a good investment for long-term reliability, especially for the front press-in bearings where replacement is labor-intensive.
- Mid-Grade / OEM-Quality Brands (National, WJB, Beck Arnley): These brands provide a great balance of quality and value. They are often manufactured to meet or exceed original equipment specifications and are a solid choice for most owners.
- Economy Brands (Mevotech, Dorman, TrueDrive, GMB): These are budget-friendly options that can get your car back on the road. While they meet basic requirements, they may not have the same longevity as premium or mid-grade brands. They can be a practical choice for the easier-to-replace rear hub assemblies.
Front vs. Rear: A Key Difference
Remember, the front and rear of your tC are different jobs. The front requires a press-in bearing. This means you need a hydraulic press or a special on-car tool kit to remove the old bearing from the steering knuckle and press the new one in. The rear is a much simpler bolt-on hub assembly. You unbolt the old unit and bolt the new one on, making it a much more DIY-friendly job.
🎬 See this walkthrough for replacing the rear wheel hubEstimated Costs for Wheel Bearing Replacement
Costs can vary based on your location, the shop, and the parts you choose. The front bearing replacement is more expensive due to the extra labor involved.
| Part / Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part (Front Bearing or Rear Hub) | $27 - $78 |
| Shop Labor (Rear Hub Assembly) | $100 - $200 |
| Shop Labor (Front Press-in Bearing) | $250 - $400+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace the hub when I replace a front bearing?
It is highly recommended. The process of pressing a bearing out can sometimes damage the hub. Reusing an old hub with a new bearing can lead to premature failure of the new bearing. Many shops will only warranty the job if both are replaced.
Should I replace wheel bearings in pairs?
It's not strictly necessary, but it is good practice. If one bearing has failed due to age and mileage, the one on the other side has been subjected to the same conditions and may not be far behind. Replacing them in pairs can save you a future trip to the shop.
Can I replace the front wheel bearing myself?
For most DIY mechanics, the front bearing is a difficult job. It requires specialized tools like a shop press or a large bearing puller/installer kit 🎬 Watch: How to replace a front press-in wheel bearing to do correctly. The rear bolt-on hub assembly is much easier and can be done at home with standard tools.
Will I need a wheel alignment after replacing a wheel bearing?
For the rear hub assembly, an alignment is usually not needed. For the front bearing, because you have to remove the steering knuckle from the car, it is highly recommended to get a wheel alignment after the job is complete to ensure proper tire wear and vehicle handling.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 90080-36136 42450-32040 42450-32041 43550-0R010 43550-42010
The front uses a press-in style bearing. The rear uses a 4-bolt hub and bearing assembly with an integrated ABS sensor.
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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.
- Scion tC: