When it comes to lubricating and protecting your car’s wheel bearings, choosing the right type of grease is essential. Knowing which grease to use can be a challenge, especially if you are unfamiliar with the different types available.
Here we will discuss what constitutes the best wheel bearing grease so that you can apply it with a grease gun. We will be focusing mainly on synthetic greases, which are often preferred due to their superior performance and longevity. Please do not forget to read our FAQ and please note that all of the below products are also viable as the best wheel bearing grease for trailers and for boat trailers.
#1. Mag 1 Disc Brake Wheel Bearing Grease
The Mag 1 Disc Brake Wheel Bearing Grease is the best wheel-bearing grease because it has the greatest performance out of all of the grease we tried.
It is very resistant to high temperatures and all sorts of adverse operational environments in your machinery and autos.
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Best Wheel Bearing Grease On The Market
- #1. Mag 1 Disc Brake Wheel Bearing Grease
- #2. Allstar Timken Wheel Bearing Grease
- #3. Lucas Oil 10301 Heavy Duty Grease
- #4. Ultra Lube Disc/Drum Wheel Bearing Grease
- #5. Dynatex Hi-Temp Wheel Bearing Grease
Do wheel bearings need to be greased?
If you own a car or any vehicle with wheel bearings, you might wonder whether or not to grease them. The answer is a resounding yes; you should and must grease your bearings regularly. By greasing them, you can significantly increase the life span of the bearings and ensure that your car performs perfectly for a longer duration without putting added strain on the engine.
Grease also reduces friction, which is another reason why it’s necessary. But keep in mind that not all greases are the same, so it is strongly suggested to use only the top quality grease (NLGI No. 2 NLGI GC-LB – see in FAQ what these letters means) from a reputed brand.
This ensures that you experience a comfortable, smooth driving experience every time you get behind the wheel. Don’t neglect to grease your wheel bearings, as they can cause major problems down the line and cost you more than you bargained for.
#1. Mag 1 Disc Brake Wheel Bearing Grease
We think the Mag 1 Disc Brake Wheel Bearing Grease is the finest wheel bearing grease for high-temperature operational situations.
It is great for auto, farm, and industrial applications. This is made from a lithium complex that provides good pump ability in both hot and cold operating temperatures.
We like the fact that it has a special kind of lubricant that endures extreme pressure and is anti-wear. Also, it has great resistance to water and water washouts.
Finally, we like how this grease is completely fortified with chemicals to resist rust and corrosion. Overall, this product can also be used as the best wheel bearing grease for boat trailers.
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#2. Allstar Timken Wheel Bearing Grease
The Allstar Timken Grease is a premium red grease that is made to handle high temperatures of disc and drum-bearing applications. This grease comes in a 16-ounce bucket and even has a nice 90-day limited factory warranty.
Additionally, this grease does a good job of resisting corrosion. We like that it also has anti-wear and water-resistant additives, which give your equipment and vehicle great protection in various environments.
Also, it features an NLGI No 2 lithium complex, which is basically a thickener that resists softening. This grease also has a superior load-carrying capability and is one of the best wheel bearing grease for travel trailers.
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#3. Lucas Oil 10301 Heavy Duty Grease
We like the Lucas Oil Heavy Duty Grease because it is specially formulated to work on auto, industrial, agricultural, and other heavy-duty applications. It is the best grease for trailer bearings (heavy-duty trailers).
It does a great job of decreasing maintenance and extending component life. This grease is also very waterproof and operational at all temperatures.
Also, this heavy-duty grease is great for wheel bearings in all sorts of equipment. It holds up extremely well in high temperatures and in high-speed bearings.
We like how this lithium grease is packed with an extreme pressure additive package. Also, it tends to exceed OEM lube life specifications.
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#4. Ultra Lube Disc/Drum Wheel Bearing Grease
The Ultra Lube Wheel Bearing Grease is the best wheel bearing grease for those who want biobased lubricants which has less friction, less heat, and less wear and tear.
This product is easy to use and virtually odorless. Also, it is good for your health and your environment as it is biodegradable.
Because it is made from renewable vegetable stock, it has a high viscosity index & tends to thin down at higher temperatures.
The trade-off is a higher degree of lubrication safety in high-speed applications. Overall, you can mix it with traditional petroleum-based grease or completely replace it. The biggest advantage of this grease is that it helps you use safer lubrication.
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#5. Dynatex Hi-Temp Wheel Bearing Grease
The Dynatex Wheel Bearing Grease is a premium, top-shelf lithium complex grease. The standout feature is that it can withstand over 500F of heat, which ensures retention in extreme conditions.
This bearing lubricant can be used for cars, trucks SUVs, trailers, plant equipment, disc brake-equipped autos, and vehicles.
Additionally, this bearing grease is made with a special additive package, which gives you a high film strength as well as high-pressure resistance and anti-wear properties.
Finally, you have high-quality virgin base fluids creating natural oxidation and corrosion inhibition. All in all, there is added stability when storing this grease for long periods of time.
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FAQ on automotive wheel bearing grease
How long do wheel bearings last?
When it comes to automotive wheel bearings, a rule of thumb is that they have an average lifespan of 136,000 to 160,000 km (approximately 85,000 to 100,000 miles). However, this lifespan can vary based on various factors such as the type and quality of the bearing used and driving conditions. For instance, if you frequently drive on rough roads or carry heavy loads in your vehicle, your wheel bearings may wear out faster than expected.
The reality is that we have seen wheel bearings last a lot longer than the above-average lifespan. Many people still drive with a faulty bearing, but this is not advisable as it increases the likelihood of unbalancing your vehicle and increases other parts’ wear and tear. Always try to replace two wheel bearings (left and right) at the same time to ensure balanced driving.
It’s important to keep an eye out for signs of worn-out wheel bearings such as unusual noises while driving or difficulty steering. Regular maintenance checks are essential in ensuring that your vehicle’s wheels are functioning correctly. Applying marine grease can also extend the life of your wheel bearings as it provides additional protection against water and other environmental elements which can cause corrosion over time.
What is the NLGI?
When it comes to selecting the right grease for your wheel bearings, there are several factors that you need to consider. The first and foremost is to ensure that the grease you choose is compatible with your car’s make and model. While there are several types of greases available in the market, not all are suitable for use in automotive wheel bearings. To check this, you must look for a specific category and grade of grease that is recommended by the manufacturer.
The NLGI is an organization called National Lubricating Grease Institute that classifies and grades greases based on their physical and chemical properties, as well as their ingredients.
You can rely on their ratings to find the right grease for your wheel bearings. It is essential to note that some greases may be suitable for general-purpose use but not for automotive bearings, so it’s essential to read the product specifications carefully.
Choosing the right grease ensures that your wheel bearings perform efficiently by reducing friction and wear and tear, preventing corrosion, and extending their lifespan. So, it’s always best to invest in a high-quality grease that is suitable for your specific car’s needs, rather than skimping on cheaper options that could lead to expensive damage in the future.
What does NLGI GA-LA, NLGI GB-LB, NGLI GC-LA, or something similar printed on the wheel bearing grease label means?
When you look at a wheel-bearing grease label, you may notice a combination of letters and numbers such as NLGI GA-LA, NLGI GB-LB, or NLGI GC-LA. These letters and numbers provide important information about the quality and suitability of the grease for specific applications. See the above answer for what NLGI means.
The G letter represents that NLGI has certified that the grease is suitable for automotive wheel bearings.
The following letters, A, B, or C, indicate the quality of the grease, with A being good, B being better, and C being best. The L letter on the label tells that NLGI certifies that the grease is suitable for applying on automotive chassis. The letters A or B that follow L represent the quality, with A being good and B being the best.
In summary, when you see NLGI GA-LA, NLGI GB-LB, or something similar and a number printed on the wheel bearing grease label, it tells you that NLGI has tested and certified the grease quality and its suitability for specific applications. The rating provided by NLGI plays an essential role in ensuring that the grease application is efficient and long-lasting. Therefore, it is important to understand what these letters and numbers mean before selecting a grease for your automotive needs.
Is the NLGI No.2 NLGI GC-LB the best type of wheel bearing grease?
Yes, it is. NLGI No. 2 NLGI GC-LB refers to the level of thickness and quality of wheel bearing grease used in automotive industries. The numbers ranging from 0000 to 6 represent the thickness of the grease. The 0000 is a grease that is in an almost liquid form while NLGI No. 2 is similar in thickness to peanut butter and offers the best lubrication for wheel bearings.
In automotive industries, NLGI No. 2 category grease is commonly used by most mechanics as this is the top range grease.
Note that the NLGI GC-LB rating indicates that the grease meets the National Lubricating Grease Institute’s standards for both chassis and wheel bearing lubrication. It ensures that the grease is suitable for high-temperature and high-load applications. The NLGI GC-LB criteria have set the highest standards for automotive grease, ensuring its quality and performance for wheel-bearing lubrication.
When searching for the top wheel-bearing grease in the market, you are likely to come across several brands that offer NLGI No. 2 NLGI GC-LB grease suitable for all types of vehicles. Choose any one of these brands for your wheel bearings as they will all maintain appropriate levels of lubrication. By adhering to industry standards, NLGI No. 2 NLGI GC-LB grease offers the best solution for ensuring that your wheel bearings remain in optimal condition, reducing the chances of costly repairs or replacements in the future.
Final words
After reviewing and comparing the top wheel bearing grease on the market, the clear winner is Mag 1 Disc Brake Wheel Bearing Grease. This grease is specially formulated for wheel bearing systems, providing excellent protection against heat and moisture. It is highly durable and able to withstand a wide range of temperatures, making it a great choice for all-season use.
The Allstar Timken Wheel Bearing Grease and Lucas Oil 10301 Heavy Duty Grease come in close second and third place, respectively, with their ability to provide excellent lubrication and protect against wear and tear. The Ultra Lube Disc/Drum Wheel Bearing Grease and Dynatex Hi-Temp Wheel Bearing Grease round out the top five, offering excellent temperature resistance and anti-corrosion properties.
Ultimately, the Mag 1 Disc Brake Wheel Bearing Grease stands out as the best option for those seeking a reliable and high-performing option for their wheel-bearing grease needs. It is also the best wheel bearing grease for 4×4.
References
https://www.lubriplate.com/Products/Automotive-Lubricants-Motor-Oils/Wheel-Bearing-Grease.html