Wheel Bearings: What They Are and Why They Matter at Meineke in Lakewood
When you’re driving through Lakewood neighborhoods or heading out to the new Raising Canes, your wheel bearings work constantly to keep your ride smooth. Since Lakewood drivers deal with daily commuting, frequent stops, and changing road conditions, wheel components must stay reliable. Because wheel bearings allow your wheels to spin freely with minimal friction, they play a major role in safety and comfort.
At Meineke in Lakewood, our ASE-certified technicians inspect and service wheel bearings as part of complete steering and suspension care. Since worn wheel bearings can affect handling and braking, our team focuses on early detection. So, in this post, you’ll learn what wheel bearings are, how they work, why they’re important, how to maintain them, and when to visit Meineke in Lakewood for professional service.
What Wheel Bearings Are and How They Work
Wheel bearings are sets of steel balls or rollers housed inside a metal ring near each wheel hub. Since your wheels rotate thousands of times during every drive, bearings reduce friction between moving parts. Because they support both the weight of your vehicle and wheel movement, they allow smooth rotation. Therefore, when wheel bearings work correctly, your vehicle rolls quietly and evenly on Lakewood roads.
Why Wheel Bearings Are Important
Although they’re hidden inside the wheel assembly, wheel bearings are critical to safe driving.
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Since they support vehicle weight, they keep wheels aligned properly.
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Because they allow smooth wheel rotation, they improve handling and control.
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As they reduce friction, they help prevent overheating and tire wear.
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Therefore, healthy wheel bearings protect your suspension and braking systems.
How to Maintain Wheel Bearings
Simple maintenance habits can help extend the life of your wheel bearings:
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Since rough roads accelerate wear, drive carefully over potholes and bumps.
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Because proper lubrication matters, follow recommended service intervals.
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As worn tires add stress, keep tires properly inflated and rotated.
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Since alignment affects bearing load, schedule regular alignment checks.
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Because professional inspections catch issues early, rely on Meineke in Lakewood for routine service.
When to See a Mechanic in Lakewood
Visit Meineke in Lakewood if you notice signs that your wheel bearings may need attention:
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Because you hear grinding, humming, or growling noises while driving.
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Since noise increases with speed or when turning.
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As your steering feels loose or unstable.
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Because tires wear unevenly.
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Therefore, your vehicle vibrates more than usual.

So, Call Meineke in Lakewood Today for a Quick Check-Up
Your wheel bearings may not be visible, but they affect every mile you drive in Lakewood. Since worn bearings can lead to serious safety issues, timely inspections matter. Because our ASE-certified technicians at Meineke in Lakewood specialize in suspension and wheel systems, you can trust accurate service and honest advice.
If the Meineke in Lakewood is not convenient, also check out these other locally-owned Meineke locations in Washington:
Meineke Car Care Center – North Meridian
433 North Meridian
Puyallup, WA 98371
Call (253) 200-0776
Meineke Car Care Center – South Meridian
4021 South Meridian
Puyallup, WA 98373
Call (253) 200-1485
Meineke Car Care Center – State Ave
10501 State Ave
Marysville, WA 98271
Call (360) 547-7276
Meineke Car Care Center – Firdale Ave
23900 Firdale Ave
Edmonds, WA 98020
Call (206) 745-6119
Meineke Car Care Center – Logan Ave South
64 Logan Avenue South
Renton, WA 98057
Call (425) 529-9425
Meineke Car Care Center – Holgate Street
465 South Holgate Street
Seattle, WA 98134
Call (206) 962-8590
Meineke Car Care Center – 35th Avenue SW
9201 35th Avenue SW
West Seattle, WA 98126
Call (206) 866-7991
Meineke Car Care Center – 6th Avenue
3024 6th Avenue
Tacoma, WA 98406
Call (253) 666-4051
Meineke Car Care Center – 4th Avenue East
517 4th Avenue East
Olympia, WA 98501
Call (360) 515-9880
Meineke Car Care Center – Tacoma Way
8724 South Tacoma Way
Lakewood, WA 98499
Call (253) 203-1500
Meineke Car Care Center #2378
2701 Bridgeport Way W.
Tacoma, WA 98466
(253) 300-6545
