The aim of the research conducted in this particular paper was related to a comprehensive reliability analysis of SKF 626 Open Deep Groove ball bearings, conducted under controlled laboratory conditions. The experimental research consisted of: measurements of radial internal clearance (RIC) in ball bearings, measurement methods for the detection of bearing operating temperature and rolling element bearing wear, complete with the cage deformation of the the damaged bearing, the failure of which was revealed after the examination. The inspected SKF 6206 open deep groove ball bearings operating under laboratory conditions – simulated the model of dynamic behavior under real conditions by using the crankshaft of an air compressor. The results of research conducted based on the inspected samples of rolling bearings, showed that there was a significant dependence of the predictors of internal radial clearance on operating bearing temperature. Out of five test samples of rolling bearings, there was only one rolling ball bearing detected to be with failure after the bearing inspection. The examination of the damaged bearing revealed the final radial clearance value of 0.045 mm, i.e. operating temperature of 75 °C.