Auto Parts: Wheel bearing hub, olds alero, torx bolts

Question
I drive a 2001 olds. Alero 4 cylinder. 2.4L manual.  My question is... how hard is it to replace the both wheel bearing hubs on the front of my car and the process to do it?  I have done my own brake job on the car before.  I was checking to see if there are any special tools I will be needing.  I got a  quote from the dealership for over $800.  I want to save money and do it myself if it is not too hard. I can deal with spending  $200 on parts, then my labor is free when I do it.

Let me know.

Answer
Hi Matt,

If you've torn-down the assembly before to do the brakes, you are only a few more steps away from removing the bearing hub. You'll need to remove the axle lock-nut and the three or four torx bolts holding the hub assembly on from the rear of the backing plate. If you have the pressed style, you'll need special tools to remove and replace it so you may want someone else to do it even though the tools required don't even come close to the dealership quote you got.

My advice on finding a good technician is: Steer clear of the dealership and 'chain' stores like Firestone, Sears, Pep Boys, Monro Muffler/Brake, Midas, etc. as they usually only employ ONE ASE Certified Tech just so they can say they do and chances are, that guy is the asst. manager or manager and is not in the store to diagnose/repair vehicles anyway. Find a service location in the link below or get some names out of the yellow-pages and do a drive-by. Garages that employ ASE Certified Technicians will be marked with the 'Blue-Seal' insignia. If unsure about whether a place employs Certified Techs, just ask to see their credentials. ALL ASE Certified Technicians will be PROUD to show and display their certificate(s).

Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
www.knucklebusters.us
570-453-0910
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