How Much It Costs to Replace a Wheel Bearing on a 2017 Audi A3

Replacing a wheel bearing on a 2017 Audi A3 typically costs between $350 and $750 (USD) per wheel at a professional shop, with most owners paying around $450–$600 depending on location, labor rates, and whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used. The final price varies based on which wheel is affected, shop type (dealer vs. independent), and whether related components are replaced at the same time.

Typical Price Range for a 2017 Audi A3 Wheel Bearing

The 2017 Audi A3 uses a hub assembly that integrates the wheel bearing, which makes replacement more straightforward but also more expensive than a simple press-in bearing. Costs will differ slightly for front vs. rear wheels and for front-wheel-drive (FWD) vs. all-wheel drive (quattro) models, as well as for S3/RS 3 performance variants that use upgraded components.

Estimated Cost Breakdown (Per Wheel)

The following breakdown explains what most U.S. owners can expect to pay to replace a single wheel bearing on a 2017 Audi A3 at a repair shop.

• Parts (hub/bearing assembly): $150–$350 for quality OEM or OEM-equivalent
• Labor: $200–$400 (about 1.5–3.0 hours, depending on corrosion and model)
• Typical total per wheel: $350–$750 out the door at most professional shops
• Audi dealership range: usually $500–$900 per wheel, especially in high-cost cities
• Independent European specialist: commonly $400–$650 per wheel

These figures reflect current U.S. market conditions through late 2025 and are meant as realistic ranges rather than a fixed quote; actual bills will depend on local labor rates, taxes, and whether extra work is required.

Front vs. Rear Wheel Bearing Costs

While the 2017 Audi A3 wheel bearings are broadly similar front and rear, there are differences in complexity and time. Front bearings often cost a bit more due to steering and suspension components that must be removed, while rear bearings can be slightly quicker in many setups.

Front Wheel Bearing Replacement

Front wheel bearings on a 2017 Audi A3 are integrated into the hub and are critical to both stability and steering feel.

• Parts (front hub/bearing): $180–$350 each for quality brands or OEM
• Labor time: ~2.0–3.0 hours per side, depending on rust and seized bolts
• Typical total (independent shop): $450–$700 per front wheel
• Dealer total: commonly $600–$900 per front wheel
• Additional alignment: sometimes recommended, adding $100–$200 if steering components were loosened

Because front bearings are subject to steering loads and more road shock, many failures are found at the front first, and the added labor and potential alignment needs nudge costs upward.

Rear Wheel Bearing Replacement

Rear wheel bearings are usually a little simpler to replace, especially on FWD models, though all-wheel drive setups can tighten access and increase time.

• Parts (rear hub/bearing): $150–$300 each
• Labor time: ~1.5–2.5 hours per side
• Typical total (independent shop): $350–$600 per rear wheel
• Dealer total: roughly $500–$800 per rear wheel
• Parking brake considerations: extra time if there’s rust or electronic parking brake servicing

The slightly lower labor time on most rear hubs usually keeps rear bearing replacement costs toward the lower end of the overall range for the A3.

Factors That Change the Price

Several variables influence how much your specific repair will cost. Understanding them helps explain why quotes can differ by hundreds of dollars even for the same model and year.

1. FWD vs. Quattro (All-Wheel Drive)

All-wheel-drive quattro versions of the 2017 Audi A3, S3, and RS 3 involve extra drivetrain components that can make access to the hub more time-consuming.

• Quattro models: often at the higher end of the labor range due to drive shafts and more complex rear setups
• FWD models: usually quicker, especially in the rear, with slightly lower labor bills
• Performance trims: S3 and RS 3 may use upgraded or unique hub assemblies that cost more
• Special hardware: some high-performance variants require specific fasteners or torque procedures

These drivetrain and hardware differences do not usually change the job into a major project, but they can add noticeable time and parts cost on performance and AWD variants.

2. OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts

Part choice is one of the biggest drivers of total cost, and quality matters significantly for wheel bearings on German cars.

• OEM (Audi/VW branded): $250–$350 per bearing assembly, highest price, best fit and longevity
• Premium aftermarket (SKF, FAG, Timken, etc.): $180–$280, usually comparable to OEM quality
• Budget aftermarket brands: $80–$150, may be acceptable short term but more likely to fail early
• Shop policy: many reputable shops refuse to install ultra-cheap bearings due to comebacks and noise issues

Spending a bit more on a high-quality hub assembly typically saves money and hassle in the long run, particularly on an A3 where labor is not trivial.

3. Labor Rates and Location

Where you live and the type of shop you choose influence labor charges more than any other single factor.

• Dealer labor rates (U.S.): often $150–$250 per hour in major metro areas
• Independent European specialist: $110–$180 per hour, with deep Audi/VW experience
• General independent shop: $90–$150 per hour, costs lower but expertise may vary
• Regional variation: coastal and big-city markets trend higher than smaller towns and rural areas

Because labor time is at least 1.5–3.0 hours per wheel, even a modest difference in hourly rate can swing the total by $100–$200 for the same work.

4. Rust, Seized Bolts, and Extra Work

Real-world conditions under the car often dictate how long the job actually takes, especially in regions with road salt and harsh winters.

• Rusty hubs and bolts: can add 0.5–1.5 hours of labor per side for cutting, heating, or drilling hardware
• Damaged components: worn bolts, ABS sensor damage, or stuck brake hardware may need replacement
• Additional parts: new axle nuts, hub bolts, and sometimes control arm bolts are recommended once removed
• Shop fees: disposal, shop supplies, and taxes can add $20–$60 to the final bill

Shops often cannot fully predict the impact of corrosion until they start disassembly, which is why some estimates include a range or “contingency” for rusted hardware.

Can You Replace Just One Bearing or Should You Do Both?

Mechanically, only the failed wheel bearing must be replaced, but some owners consider doing both sides on the same axle while the car is already in the shop.

When Replacing One Side Makes Sense

Most professional mechanics will only replace the bearing that has actually failed unless there is a specific reason to do both.

• Newer vehicles with low to moderate mileage: often only one bad bearing; no need to preemptively replace the other
• Clear noise on one side: diagnostic tests confirm which bearing has failed
• Budget concerns: focusing on the clearly failed bearing keeps immediate costs down
• Normal wear: bearings do not always fail in pairs; the other may last years longer

In most cases, dealing only with the noisy or loose bearing is a cost-effective and technically sound decision, especially if the car’s mileage is not extremely high.

When Replacing Both Sides Is Worth Considering

There are situations where doing both bearings on the same axle is reasonable preventive maintenance.

• High-mileage A3 (100,000+ miles): if one bearing has failed, the other is likely well worn
• Similar noise on both sides: difficult-to-isolate humming may indicate multiple worn bearings
• Rusty suspension and hubs: if disassembly is already difficult, doing both saves a second teardown later
• Long-term ownership plans: owners intending to keep the car many years may preemptively refresh both sides

While replacing both sides roughly doubles parts and some labor cost, it can reduce future downtime and avoid another multi-hundred-dollar bill in the near term for high-mileage or heavily used vehicles.

Symptoms That Indicate a Failing Wheel Bearing

Knowing the signs of a bad wheel bearing helps you avoid misdiagnosis and ensures that your money is actually going toward fixing the right problem.

Common Warning Signs

Drivers of the 2017 Audi A3 typically notice specific changes in sound and handling as a wheel bearing starts to fail.

• Growling or humming noise: increases with vehicle speed, often louder during highway driving
• Noise change when turning: sound often gets louder when loading the bad bearing in a turn
• Vibration in steering wheel or seat: may appear at certain speeds if the bearing is badly worn
• ABS or traction control warnings: damaged bearing or tone ring can trigger sensor faults
• Excessive wheel play: noticeable looseness when the wheel is rocked by hand (checked on a lift)

These signs can overlap with tire, alignment, and brake issues, which is why a proper inspection by a shop familiar with Audi/VW platforms is recommended before committing to replacement.

Is DIY Wheel Bearing Replacement on an Audi A3 Practical?

Technically skilled owners sometimes consider doing this job themselves, but the A3’s design, torque specs, and safety implications mean it’s not a casual driveway task.

DIY Cost vs. Shop Cost

For experienced home mechanics with the right tools, DIY can save significant labor expense.

• DIY parts (premium hub): $180–$300 per bearing from a reputable brand
• Additional supplies: axle nut, hub bolts, penetrating oil, torque wrench, sometimes new ABS bolt
• Tool needs: metric socket set, breaker bar, high-torque torque wrench, jack and stands or lift
• Potential savings: roughly $200–$400 per wheel vs. professional labor

For owners already equipped and comfortable with suspension and brake disassembly, DIY can be economically attractive, though it requires time and precision.

Risks and Considerations

On vehicles like the 2017 Audi A3, even confident DIYers must weigh safety and complexity before attempting this repair.

• Safety-critical component: improper installation can lead to wheel play, ABS faults, or in extreme cases, wheel separation
• High torque values: axle and hub bolts require specific torque and angle tightening procedures
• ABS sensors: can easily be damaged during removal, adding unexpected cost
• Alignment impact: if suspension arms are loosened or shifted, an alignment may be required

For many Audi A3 owners, the combination of safety importance and required tooling makes a professional repair—especially by a shop familiar with the platform—the more practical choice despite higher total cost.

How to Get an Accurate Quote for Your 2017 Audi A3

Because there are many variables, the best way to know your actual cost is to request a detailed written estimate tailored to your car and location.

Information to Provide the Shop

Giving the repair facility specific details about your vehicle and symptoms helps them quote accurately and avoid unnecessary work.

• Full VIN or at least trim and drivetrain: 2017 A3 FWD, quattro, S3, or RS 3
• Which corner you suspect: front left, front right, rear left, rear right, if you have a sense from the noise
• Symptoms: when the noise occurs (speed, turning direction, braking)
• Parts preference: OEM vs. premium aftermarket vs. “cheapest acceptable”

With clear information, shops can check correct part numbers, labor guides, and potential additional work, leading to a more reliable price estimate.

What to Ask in the Estimate

Not all quotes are structured the same way, so it helps to request certain details up front.

• Itemized parts and labor: so you can see the bearing cost vs. hours billed
• Brand of bearing: ensures you’re getting reputable components, not ultra-cheap parts
• Warranty terms: length of coverage on both parts and labor
• Potential extras: alignment, new bolts, ABS sensor, or rust-related fees if problems arise

These questions not only clarify the real cost but also reveal how transparent and experienced a shop is with Audi repairs, which can matter as much as the raw price.

Summary

For a 2017 Audi A3, replacing a wheel bearing generally runs $350–$750 per wheel, with most owners paying around $450–$600 at a reputable independent shop and more at an Audi dealer. Front bearings, quattro models, performance variants, and cars in high-labor-rate cities tend to be at the upper end of that range. Parts usually cost $150–$350 each for a complete hub assembly, while labor typically accounts for $200–$400 of the bill, depending on rust and complexity. Quality parts and proper installation are crucial for safety and long-term reliability, making a well-reviewed European specialist or dealer a strong choice for many owners even if the up-front price is higher.

How much to replace wheel bearing Audi A3?

The average cost to replace an Audi A3 wheel bearing is between $350 and $960, depending on the year, model, and shop. Parts can range from $170 to over $450, and labor adds to the total, with costs varying for different wheel positions (e.g., front vs. rear) and whether a Quattro or front-wheel drive model is being serviced. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the cost of wheel bearing replacement: 37scar PROblemsYouTube · Feb 22, 2024
Cost breakdown

• Parts: A hub assembly with a wheel bearing costs approximately $200 on average, but the price can range from under $70 to over $450. 
• Labor: Labor costs depend on the vehicle’s drivetrain (FWD or Quattro) and the specific location of the bearing. For example, a front bearing replacement on a 2018 A3 was estimated to be between $660 and $960. 
• Total: The average total cost for a single wheel bearing replacement is around $350, but it can range up to over $1,000, especially for older or high-performance models or at a dealership. 

Factors that affect the cost

• Vehicle Year and Model: Newer or more complex models may have higher part and labor costs. 
• Location: Prices can vary significantly between independent shops and dealerships. 
• Drivetrain: Replacing a wheel bearing on a Quattro (all-wheel drive) model is often more expensive than on a front-wheel drive model due to the complexity. 
• Part Type: Replacing the entire hub assembly with a pre-installed bearing is often more common and can be more expensive than replacing just the bearing itself, though it may save on labor costs. 

What is the most common fault with the Audi A3?

Top Audi A3 problems

• Oil pump drive failure.
• Suspension creaking.
• Splitting fuel pipes.
• Diverter valve breakages.
• Drooping rear wiper arms.
• Rusty front wings.
• Split the cost with Bumper.

How much does it cost to repair Audi wheel bearings?

The average cost for an Audi A4 Wheel Bearing Replacement is between $430 and $648. Labor costs are estimated between $229 and $336 while parts are priced between $202 and $312. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

Is it worth fixing a wheel bearing?

If you’re just driving around town, the risk might not feel urgent, but it’s still a gamble. The bearing could fail at any time, and if it causes more damage, the repair could end up costing a lot more in both time and money.