Bearing Check

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If any of the following conditions exist, install a new bearing.

Inspect the bearing for a bent cage.

Fig 1: Inspecting Bearing For Bent Cage
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Inspect the bearings for galling (metal smears on the roller ends).

Fig 2: Inspecting Bearings For Galling (Metal Smears On Roller Ends)
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Inspect the bearings for brinelling (surface indentation in the race).

Fig 3: Inspecting Bearings For Brinelling (Surface Indentation In Race)
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Inspect the bearing for a cracked inner race.

Fig 4: Inspecting Bearing For Cracked Inner Race
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: If etching is present, inspect the seals.

Fig 5: Inspecting Bearing And Race For Etching

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Inspect the bearing and race for etching.
Inspect the bearing for heat discoloration (dark blue).

Fig 6: Inspecting Bearing For Heat Discoloration (Dark Blue)
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Inspect the bearing for fatigue spalling (metal flaking).

Fig 7: Inspecting Bearing For Fatigue Spalling (Metal Flaking)
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.