Winter Tires and exposed bearings

[microELVIS]

I have some winter tires I may throw on for a couple months just in case the roads get bad this year. My only concern is that my tires have some spare rims on them with no hubcap or anything. When you put them on a car it looks as though the front bearings are exposed, i have seen other cars doing this as well. Is this a problem, or are the bearings resistant to water ?

[Cubanpete]

no they will rust, get a new spare set

[NovaResource]

The factory steel wheels are the same. Only the plastic wheel cover covers the hub. Don't worry, FWD cars have sealed wheel bearings. Leaving them unexposed doesn't really effect them.

[Cubanpete]

I am not sure, NOVA a Co-worker has them on...his vibe with winter tires, the look like they have some rust. I am pretty sure they are the stock ones Unless they are Jobber or 3rd party parts for his winter set.I will ask and confirm this with you peeps

[NovaResource]

quote:I am not sure, NOVA a Co-worker has them on...his vibe with winter tiresA Co-worker has what on his Vibe? Wheel covers? Exposed hubs?FWD bearings are sealed. The only thing showing through is the nut that holds the half-shaft into the bearing. Surface rust on the nut and half-shaft end is normal.

[cohocarl]

quote:Don't worry, FWD cars have sealed wheel bearings. Leaving them unexposed doesn't really effect them.I agree. It's ugly, but won't hurt anything.

[microELVIS]

Thanks guys, Just got my vibe friday. Will post the story as soon as i get my pictures sent.