How important is it to have the wheel bearings and struts replaced on your '97 Toyota Avalon and what is the purpose of these repairs?

Answer 1

Struts are crucial for suspension. Its noted that these cars have noisy front struts which do not necessarily have to be replaced. However, struts that have seen better days can further damage your tires, wheels, and the rest of your suspension. Get it done.

It is important to note here that suspension noise - front or rear - is perhaps the Achilles heal of these other-wise very dependable Toyotas. Many a wrench - myself included - has erred on noise diagnosis with Toyota and Lexus cars. In regard to your particular question, I wonder if 'wheel' or instead 'strut' bearings were recommended. A strut bearing, or mount, along with struts themselves are often the cause of suspension noise. I can count on both hands the number of wheel hubs(bearings) we've replaced on cars. But noise is also caused by worn sway links and bushings, loose mounting bolts, loose trunk fixtures, loose inner wheel well panels, loose upper strut nuts and loose alignment adjustment(rear) bolts. I imagine I've missed a few.

Most Toy techs will acknowledge suspension noise as one of, if not the biggest source of complaint. An experienced mechanic will know this list of potential noise-makers, tell you that it may very well involve a process of elimination, and start at the low/more affordable end - bolts, trunk, sway link bushings. They should also be able to determine if their recommendation is a safety-related issue.