Jeep Tire Wear - Diagnostic Tips

Tips on Diagnosing Tire Issues

Tire Wear Issues

The wear on my front drivers side tire was very bad. I assumed it was a bad alignment but it was the wheel bearing. Turns out it’s a common failure for all Jeeps. It was getting so bad it was affecting the ABS system. 

A good way to diagnose what the problem could be...

• Unload the tire - get the weight off the tire by putting the Jeep on a jack stand or jacking it up.
• Then with your hands at the 12 and 6 o’clock position of the tire, push it back and forth
• If there is play in the tire, any movement at all, it’s the wheel bearing or ball joints. 
• When you put your hands at the 3 and 9 o’clock position and do the same thing it’s tie rod ends.

It cost me about $150 for the hub assembly, but I learned something new with this problem. Each set of problems I learn a little more about my Jeep and become more confident. Especially when I am right there when it’s getting fixed. 

This is also a good lesson for those wanting to add upgrades to your Jeep. It will always lead to failures somewhere else on your Jeep so be prepared to empty your pockets.