Aftermarket March 2023

C olin Cottrell, Marketing and Central Operations Director at LKQ Euro Car Parts commented: “The UK’s weather and road conditions really put bearings to the test, with water, salt and grit causing corrosion and surface damage that can eventually lead to part impairment. Much of the damage done during the dark winter months only presents itself as we move into spring and summer, when we see a rise in the number of bearing failures being presented to garages across the country.” He continued: “Wheel bearings are critical for the overall safety of a vehicle. As well as helping wheels spin freely, they also control braking and cornering forces, and support key systems such as ABS, traction control, electronic parking braking and cruise control. It is vital that garages take extra care when servicing wheel bearings. Because they are regularly under significant pressure, if installation does not correspond with vehicle-specific torque values then they will be left operating under abnormal or unsafe loads, which can be dangerous and compromise driver safety.” Safety As bearings often wear out in pairs, and cannot be repaired, there is an opportunity for independent workshops to upsell. Colin observed: “If a wheel bearing is worn, the alternative side should always be checked as it’s likely that this will need replacing too. Often, the customer is receptive to the idea of replacing them at the same time.” 40 AFTERMARKET MARCH 2023 BEARINGS www.aftermarketonline.net Colin went on to say: “The cost-of-living crisis is leaving many motorists unprepared for unexpected damage to their vehicles. As wheel bearings are a central part of the wheel assembly and critical component for every vehicle to drive safely, garages should offer customers bearings at affordable price points. Supporting them in this way can help customers feel more valued and builds their trust in the business. LKQ Euro Car Parts has introduced a new range of steering and transmission products under its Starline brand, including more than 700 sets of bearings and wheel hubs for front and rear axles. Colin added: “Our Starline ranges means technicians can be confident in the products they are offering their customers – and by giving them options to choose from, can make them feel involved in the repair process, driving loyalty and trust.” Quick and efficient Moving onto the business end of dealing with bearings in the workshop, As Pete Allen, Business Line Manager – Hubs and Bearings at Comline observed, there are a number of symptoms that point to a failing wheel bearing: “Steering judder, reduced acceleration, grinding, unevenly worn tyres, unbalanced wheels and vehicle pulling are all potential indicators that a wheel bearing is failing. To undertake quick and efficient replacement of the failing part, technicians will require a wheel bearing kit, complete with the relevant accessories required for the specific application – precisely the solution that Comline has to offer. Comline’s range of wheel bearing kits deliver a competitive, no-hassle, high- quality option for workshops. Production of a Comline kit is Above: Driveline bearings from Borg & Beck BEARINGS IN MIND New tech and new methods; All the latest on bearings including tips and tricks and more