Posted on August 26 2026
If you're wondering how to change skateboard bearings, the good news is that replacing skateboard bearings is one of the easiest skateboard maintenance jobs you can do yourself. Whether your skateboard bearings are noisy, dirty, slow or damaged, installing a new set of bearings can help your skateboard wheels roll smoothly again.
In this guide, we'll show you how to remove skateboard bearings, how to install skateboard bearings and how to replace skateboard bearings using a basic skate tool.
What You Need to Change Skateboard Bearings
Before you start replacing your skateboard bearings, you'll need:
- 8 new skateboard bearings
- Skateboard wheels
- Skate tool or suitable socket
- Skateboard trucks
- Speed washers
- Bearing spacers, if you use them
A complete skateboard uses 8 skateboard bearings — two bearings per wheel.
Step 1: Remove the Skateboard Wheels
Start by removing the four wheels from your skateboard trucks.
Use a skate tool to loosen each axle nut. Remove the nut and keep the speed washers somewhere safe.
Slide each skateboard wheel off the truck axle.
Step 2: Remove the Old Skateboard Bearings
The easiest way to remove skateboard bearings is using the end of your skateboard truck axle.
Place the edge of the wheel onto the axle so that the bearing is sitting against the end of the axle. Tilt the wheel slightly and use the axle to lever the bearing out.
Repeat this process for both bearings in each skateboard wheel.
Step 3: Check Your Skateboard Wheels
Before installing your new skateboard bearings, inspect your wheels.
Look for:
- Flat spots
- Cracks
- Uneven wear
- Chipped urethane
- Excessive wear
If your skateboard wheels are still in good condition, you can reuse them with your new bearings.
Step 4: Install the New Skateboard Bearings
Place one skateboard bearing onto the truck axle.
Push your skateboard wheel down onto the bearing and apply firm, even pressure until the bearing is seated completely inside the wheel.
Flip the wheel over and install the second bearing.
If you're using skateboard bearing spacers, place the spacer between the two bearings before pressing the second bearing into position.
Repeat for all four wheels.
Step 5: Put the Wheels Back on Your Skateboard
Place a speed washer onto the truck axle, followed by your wheel.
Add another speed washer on the outside of the wheel and thread the axle nut back on.
Don't overtighten the axle nut.
Your skateboard wheel should spin freely without excessive side-to-side movement.
Step 6: Test Your New Skateboard Bearings
Spin each skateboard wheel by hand.
Your new bearings should feel smooth and consistent.
Don't worry if brand-new skateboard bearings don't spin for an extremely long time when you flick them with your finger. What matters most is how they perform when you're actually skating.
How Often Should You Replace Skateboard Bearings?
There isn't a set schedule for replacing skateboard bearings.
How long skateboard bearings last depends on how often you skate, the surfaces you skate on and whether your skateboard is exposed to water, dirt or dust.
You may need to replace skateboard bearings when they:
- Make grinding noises
- Feel rough
- Spin poorly
- Have visible rust
- Become damaged
- Slow your skateboard down noticeably
Can You Clean Skateboard Bearings Instead of Replacing Them?
Sometimes.
If your skateboard bearings are simply dirty, cleaning and lubricating them may improve their performance. However, rusty, damaged or heavily worn bearings are generally better replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bearings does a skateboard need?
A standard skateboard requires 8 bearings, with two bearings installed in each wheel.
How do you remove skateboard bearings?
You can remove skateboard bearings using the end of your truck axle or a dedicated bearing removal tool.
How long do skateboard bearings last?
There is no fixed lifespan. Skateboard bearings can last months or years depending on use, conditions and maintenance.
Can you put new bearings in old skateboard wheels?
Yes. As long as your skateboard wheels are still in good condition, you can install new bearings into them.
Do skateboard bearings make you go faster?
Good-quality, properly maintained bearings can help your skateboard roll smoothly and efficiently, but wheels, surface, rider and setup also affect speed.
Final Tips
Replacing skateboard bearings is a simple skill every skateboarder should know. Once you've done it a few times, you can replace a full set of skateboard bearings in just a few minutes.
If your skateboard feels slow, rough or noisy, checking your bearings is a great place to start.
