how to check ball bearings

[fabulous010]

so my car has a bit of a humming noise when driviing. now mind you that i do need an alignment. and that it could also be caused by my winter wheels. but to check my ball bearings i have to lift the car and check if there is any free play in the wheels. correct?

[Mike]

That is what I've always been told.

[MyNameIsThien]

Ball bearings? Do you mean wheel bearings? What you want to do is raise the car. Position your hands at 12 and 6 position and shake to make sure there isn't any play. This is to check if there is any play in them. It could be an internal problem inside the sealed bearing themselves causing the humming noise. I suggest doing the alignment first. It could be that your toe angles are out and your tires aren't straight. Another problem with humming noise is the tires itself. If it is out of round, it will cause a hum type noise.

[fabulous010]

i got an alignment and the noise reduced slightly. still have to check bearings thanks thien.

[toinkee69]

i noticed this on my ride to.