This study investigated the wear characteristics and operational condition of gears with initial defects of the bearing inner ring. The working states of gears were evaluated through a combination of vibration signal analysis, wear debris concentration analysis, qualitative analysis of the wear debris, and tooth surface analysis. Based on the Hertz contact theory, a dynamic model for the gear drive system was constructed, enabling the simulation and comparison of vibration acceleration signals under normal and fault conditions. The research results revealed that bearing defects induced irregularities in vibration frequency and amplitude, adversely affecting the performance and stability of the gear system. Furthermore, these defects trigger the creation of substantial wear debris, which exacerbates gear wear and reduces the gear lifespan by about 15%. Additionally, bearing defects induced intermittent load spikes and uneven stress distribution across tooth contacts, resulting in localized high shear stresses, material flaking, and surface spalling. Consequently, initial defects of the bearing will accelerate gear wear progression and lead to abnormal wear patterns, potentially resulting in the premature failure of the gear train system. The study investigates the underlying mechanisms of gear wear evolution influenced by these defects and offers practical guidelines for the engineering, manufacturing, and maintenance of gear systems.