I just bought a 2006 H3. If failed inspection since it needs left front wheel bearings and parking brake to be fixed. I was told is over $1500 to fix both, “if he can even get the parts”. I addressed the parking brake separately and was told that is something I can try and fix myself (although I am not overly mechanical). He also said the left front quarter panel is completely gone and around the body mounts it is rotted to point he thinks will affect mounts after a year (I’m up north). I was VERY discouraged since truck looks and drives great. Any advice on the left front wheel bearings— that alone is like $750 but I need it to pass inspection.

 

Let's keep your H3 Tech questions in the ................... H3 Section.

You really need to go to a different shop. H3 hubs are readily available, look on RockAuto for an example. Quality Timken or GM Hubs are just over $210. Cheaper hubs are cheap for a reason. So the "if he can get the parts" is straight up BS.

I have no idea how a rusted fender would ever affect a body mount.

Replacing a Hub unit on an older vehicle from the North can be a challenge due to corrosion. The three bolts won't be an issue, but that Hub will be good and stuck in the Spindle so I would not recommend this as a DIY project for a novice. If you have a capable friend to assist, then OK. There are tricks on removing a stuck hub, but beyond the scope of this response. The shop you are visiting knows you are in a jam (can't pass inspection), that your knowledge on the subject is limited, and you have an old truck which can be a PIA to work on.... they smell cabbage in your wallet. Get more estimates!

 

Where ya located? Pics of rust rot? Back safety, park brake?

 

What do you think of these — they are $50 off (Normally $$149) and usually think of MOOG as a decent brand.

Uh

 

What do people think of the Moog Hub quality and discounted price?

 

The discounted price feels great until the second time you have to replace hubs. Moog makes OK parts for cars, I am not overly excited about their truck stuff. They will work, the question is how long will they last.