Wheel making a loud popping sound, almost like popcorn popping?

2003 MITSUBISHI LANCER
236,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
LUNACHRIS88
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I noticed my passenger wheel started making a popping sound a few days ago. The sound got worse overtime and I replaced the cv joint, but the sound still persists. I did notice very little to almost no transmission fluid came out when I took the cv joint out.

I jacked up the car on both the passenger and driver side and put it in neutral. The driver's side spins when manually turns the tire but the passenger side refuses to even budge. The brake calipers are not pressed and when I step on the breaks the calipers release like normal when I let up.

I am thinking it’s the wheel bearing that has completely seized but I would love a second opinion. Another note, the wheel does spin when on the ground in drive but it’s making the popping sound as mentioned before and the steering wheel turn towards the passenger side but it’s self when moving forward and in reverse.
Apr 23, 2023 at 10:54 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi,

If everything is tight, the wheel bearing is my first suspect as well.

I'm not sure if you plan to do it yourself, but this has a press-in bearing and not a bolt-in. It takes a little longer to do and you will need a press.

I attached the directions below. Take a look through them and let me know if you have questions.

Take care,

joe

See pics below.
Apr 23, 2023 at 10:14 PM
Avatar
LUNACHRIS88
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thank you for the diagrams I was thinking of just replacing the whole wheel hub assembly since I don’t have the tools to remove and press in a new wheel bearing. it’ll be more expensive, but I think it’s also the easier route.
Apr 23, 2023 at 10:16 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi,

There really isn't a hub to replace. The bearing is mounted in the steering knuckle. Do you mean you want to replace the knuckle? A new one likely will not have a bearing installed.

Let me know.

Joe
Apr 24, 2023 at 6:13 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.