Q: How to inspect and replace front wheel bearings for Pontiac Firebird?
A: For front wheel bearings, it's typically necessary to inspect them when changing brake pads or when the front wheels are raised for any reason. To check, with the vehicle on jackstands, spin the wheel and assess noise, rolling resistance, and freeplay. Grab the tire's top and bottom, and if it moves more than 0.005 inches, inspect and repack or replace the bearings. To remove the bearings for replacement or repacking, remove the hub cap and wheel, followed by the caliper. Hang the caliper aside, pry out the dust cap, and remove the cotter pin and spindle nut. Pull the hub assembly to remove the outer bearing, and then take off the inner bearing and lip seal. Clean all components thoroughly, inspect for damage, and regrease the bearings. Install them, along with a new seal and cotter pin, adjust the spindle nut, and reinstall the dust cap, caliper, wheel, and hub cap. Finally, lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts.