What inspection procedure is commonly done to check for worn wheel bearings?

Spinning the wheel and listening for noise is a standard procedure used to check for worn wheel bearings because worn bearings often create distinctive sounds when the wheel is turned. When a wheel bearing begins to fail, it may produce a grinding or rumbling noise that changes with speed or when turning. This auditory cue is a direct indicator of potential issues with the bearings.

In contrast, measuring tire tread depth focuses on the condition of the tires themselves, and while important for overall safety and performance, it does not provide specific information about wheel bearings. Similarly, performing a visual inspection of the brake pads assesses the state of the braking system rather than the wheel bearings. Checking the air pressure in tires is essential for safe vehicle operation, but it does not relate to the condition of the wheel bearings. Thus, the most relevant and effective inspection procedure for diagnosing worn wheel bearings is spinning the wheel and listening for noise.