How Can Water Corrode the Integrity of Wheel Bearings?

If wheel bearing seals are functioning properly, water and other contaminants only have the power to damage the exterior of the bearings. However, if water is able to seep past seals, it can corrode the integrity of bearings by changing the viscosity of lubrication. Changes in lubrication will cause excessive friction, which over time can lead to mechanical deficiencies. Water can even set the stage for oxidation that will subtly degrade bearing integrity. Water is one of the most dangerous contaminants to protect against since it can become the root cause of catastrophic bearing failure.