2005 rear bearing assembly awd highlander

Timken is usually the better bearing to use, but the reality of it is that I’d stay away from the cheap bearings that are made in China and try to find something that is made in the USA mostly due to better quality steel used. I’ve read a ton of reviews saying that the cheaper chinese bearings will last you about 3 oil changes before going out again.

Changing the bearing out can be a breeze, or an absolute nightmare. The biggest obstacle in replacing the bearing is getting the bearing separated from the knuckle that it bolts to. Our Santa Fe rear bearing was destroyed getting it out to replace an axle. My shop van was the same thing on both front bearings ( 2002 Chevy Express van ). My Astro, both sides came out with little effort. There are ways to coax the hub assembly out of the knuckle, but it requires special tools and effort.

At the very least you’ll want to have a 3 lb maul for beating on it with, a good set of solit pry bars and penetrating fluid. Installation I would recommend using antiseize on the new bearing so it can be removed easily down the road.