Wheel hub replacement doesn’t just focus on the hubs themselves, though it is a large part of the equation. It also focuses on the bearings, ABS sensors and more. Replacing them may seem like a pain, but is essential to ensure that your vehicle operates optimally at all times. Understanding more about the hubs and bearings can help you determine why replacements may be necessary.
Bearings
When you turn the wheels of the car while driving and hear a whirring noise that seems to howl at you, it’s most likely your bearing. They make this noise and have done since they were first introduced. As the bearing wears out, extra play starts to develop. This extra play, along with dust, debris, and dirt, can all damage the internal surfaces. Once damaged, there’s nothing more than can be done buy to replace them unless you want to see what happens when the bearings completely fall apart.
Hubs
The hubs are the metal part that the wheels will be bolted on to, and they rarely have problems. They are rounded metal objects and have studs poking out, which the tire is then placed upon and bolted into place, so it doesn’t move except in the position that the wheels are supposed to go. Other parts are put onto the hubs, including brake rotors. In most cases, the hubs and the bearings come together in one assembly, making it easier to replace it all at once.
Replacements
While wheel hub replacement isn’t usually necessary, meaning that you don’t have to replace the hubs frequently, most people go ahead and buy the full kit and replace everything at once. It does make it easier to replace it all, so that all the parts are new once more, and may be done on your own or by a professional.