Expect about $250–$500 per wheel for a front-wheel hub assembly replacement, and roughly $250–$600 per wheel for a rear-wheel bearing replacement, with total costs varying by location, parts choice, and whether an alignment is needed.
Wheels bearings are critical for smooth operation and safety. On a 2012 Honda Accord, the job often involves replacing a hub assembly that includes the bearing. Prices differ between front and rear positions and between shops' hourly rates. The following guide outlines typical ranges and factors to consider to help you budget and shop around. Prices reflect typical ranges reported by independent repair shops and dealership service departments in 2024–2025; actual quotes vary by region, shop, and part choices.
Cost expectations by wheel position
Before listing the typical ranges, this section explains what you might pay for each wheel position.
- Front wheel bearing hub assembly replacement: Parts typically $60–$250; labor 1–2.5 hours at $90–$150/hour. All-in price commonly about $250–$520 per wheel; dealer quotes can exceed $600.
- Rear wheel bearing replacement: Parts typically $50–$200 for bearing/hub assembly; labor 1–3 hours at $90–$150/hour. All-in commonly $250–$700 per wheel depending on parts and whether an alignment is needed.
Note: In many modern Hondas, the bearing is integrated into a hub assembly, so the job often involves replacing the entire hub rather than a separate bearing. This can affect both price and duration.
Additional cost factors
Prices can vary for several reasons beyond wheel position and part type; consider these when getting quotes.
- Shop type and location: Dealers typically charge more for labor and parts than independent shops; urban areas may see higher rates.
- Parts choice: OEM/Dealer parts are pricier but often guaranteed to fit; aftermarket options can save money but vary in quality and warranty.
- Alignment and safety checks: Many shops perform a wheel alignment after hub/bearing work, adding $75–$150.
- Two-wheel replacements: Replacing both front wheels at once may reduce total labor time and price per wheel.
- Warranty coverage: Some hub assemblies include a warranty for the bearing or hub; labor warranties vary by shop.
Ask for a written estimate that itemizes parts, labor, alignment, and disposal fees to avoid surprises.
What the replacement involves
Front wheel bearing hub assembly replacement
The typical process involves lifting the vehicle, removing the wheel, caliper, and rotor to access the hub, detaching the old hub/bearing, installing the new hub assembly, and reassembling components. An alignment may be recommended after the repair.
- Secure the vehicle on jack stands and remove the wheel.
- Remove the brake caliper and rotor to access the hub assembly.
- Detatch and remove the old hub/bearing from the knuckle.
- Install the new hub assembly and torque to specification.
- Reassemble brakes, reinstall the wheel, and perform a test drive.
- Check for proper operation and schedule an alignment if needed.
Note that some models may require different steps depending on hub design or whether a separate bearing is being replaced.
Rear wheel bearing replacement
The rear replacement follows a similar workflow, with variations based on hub design and whether axle-related components must be serviced.
- Lift and support the vehicle, remove the rear wheel.
- Remove rear braking components to access the hub.
- Detach the old hub/bearing assembly (or press out the bearing, if applicable).
- Install the new hub/bearing assembly and secure it.
- Reassemble braking components, reinstall the wheel, and test drive.
- Perform an alignment check if recommended by the shop.
As with the front, the exact steps depend on the vehicle’s hub design and whether you replace just the bearing or the entire hub assembly.
Summary
For a 2012 Honda Accord, wheel bearing replacement costs typically fall in the broad ranges of $250–$600 per wheel, depending on front vs rear and whether a hub assembly or bearing swap is performed. Labor rates, regional differences, and whether an alignment is needed play a major role in final pricing. To avoid surprises, obtain a detailed, written estimate that breaks out parts, labor, and any additional services, and compare quotes from both independent shops and dealerships. Regular maintenance and addressing bearing noise early can prevent more costly repairs later.