Wheel hub replacement
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Wheel hub replacement
Wheel hub replacement cost
Have you ever wondered how the wheels on your car spin so freely?
The energy from the engine needs to transfer to the wheels in a way that enables them to roll smoothly. So how is this done?
The driveshaft/axle works in association with the wheel bearings and wheel hubs to provide that easy rotation.
When we say wheel hub, there are variants to this. There are disc brake hubs, wheel hubs, and a wheel bearing and hub assembly. In all cases the wheels are attached to the hubs.
To save any confusion, we will focus on the wheel bearing and hub assembly as this is the more common component and most modern vehicles are fitted with them.
The assembly is popular due to its convenience - it is easy to install and works well with the ABS sensors. Previously, bearings would be pressed or bolted into the wheel hub.
When all is running well, the wheel hub assembly will provide friction-free motion to the wheels. But it can fail with wear and tear if it’s put under extreme conditions or if it has hit a curb or been struck in an accident.
If you do end up having to replace a wheel hub assembly, it could cost you around $120 to $400 give or take, depending on your vehicle.
What is a wheel hub?
If you have ever changed a tyre on your car, you would have seen the wheel hub. It is the part to which the wheel is bolted and is a round, metal component that usually has 4 to 5 protruding wheel studs.
The wheel hub connects the driveshaft/axle of the wheel and works in partnership with the wheel bearings and ABS sensors. The wheel hub assembly is designed as an all-in-one unit.
Symptoms a wheel hub needs replacing
- Uneven tyre wear
- Movement in the wheel and bearing when weight is off the car
- ABS warning light may come on
- Steering may not feel as firm and could vibrate as you drive
- Unusual grinding or ticking noise coming from a corner of the vehicle that is only there when driving and gets louder the faster you go
How a wheel hub is replaced
Don’t worry, you don’t have to do this one on your own, book an awesome AutoGuru technician to get the wheel hub replaced without the hassle. The technician will:
- Loosen the axle nut and remove the locking pin
- Raise the vehicle up and remove the wheel
- Remove the brake caliper, pads and rotor from the hub
- Remove the axle nut/bolt and release the axle from the hub
- Unclip the ABS sensor
- Remove the faulty wheel hub
- Fit the new hub over the axle and reattach the ABS sensor
- Tighten axle nuts/bolts
- Refit the brake rotor, pads and caliper
- Refit the wheel and lower the vehicle
- Tighten the axle to required torque and fit a locking pin
- Check the brake function and head out for a test drive
Tips to remember
Have your wheel hub assembly checked as soon as you notice any signs of trouble. It could save you from having to buy a new set of tyres.
It’s a good idea to replace some parts in pairs. If one wheel hub assembly has gone, the other could be close to failing as well. A qualified AutoGuru mechanic can check both wheel hub assemblies to see if they both need replacing.
How important is replacing a wheel hub?
Generally, issues with the wheel hub are due to the bearings becoming worn. Other than wearing your tyres prematurely and making noises, it can become an unsafe situation if left too long.
Eventually, the bearing can collapse and your wheel could end up wobbling as you drive. It is recommended to replace a faulty or failing wheel hub as soon as possible.
