How to Replace a Rear Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly
Essential answer
A rear wheel bearing hub assembly combines the wheel bearing and the hub flange in one bolt-on unit. On many vehicles, replacing it means removing the wheel, brake caliper, brake rotor and axle nut, disconnecting the wheel speed sensor, unbolting the old hub assembly and fitting a new one, then torquing all fasteners to the manufacturer's specifications. The exact procedure and torque values vary by vehicle, so this guide explains the general process and where you must check the applicable service information for your model.
Before you begin
Confirm that the noise or looseness is actually coming from the rear bearing. A worn bearing often produces a hum, growl or rumble that changes with road speed and may become louder when turning one direction. Jack the rear of the vehicle securely and support it on jack stands. Do not work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. With the wheel off the ground, grasp the tire at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions and rock it. Some movement can indicate a worn bearing, but movement can also come from other suspension joints. A qualified diagnosis is recommended if the source is not obvious.
Typical equipment includes a breaker bar, torque wrench, socket set, jack and jack stands, wheel chocks, penetrating oil, a pry bar or slide hammer where needed, and a replacement hub assembly. Some designs also require a large axle nut socket, a torque-to-yield axle nut replacement, and thread lock compound where specified. Work on a level surface and block the front wheels before lifting the rear.
Replacement steps
1) Remove the wheel and brake components
Loosen the rear wheel lug nuts while the vehicle is still on the ground. Raise the rear, support it on jack stands and remove the wheel. Remove the brake caliper and support it so the brake hose is not stretched. Remove the caliper bracket and brake rotor. On vehicles with drum brakes, remove the drum and brake hardware as needed to access the hub.
2) Disconnect the wheel speed sensor
Unplug the wheel speed sensor connector and remove the sensor from the hub or knuckle if it blocks hub removal. Handle the sensor carefully because the mounting can be brittle and the sensor tip can seize in place. If the vehicle uses a tone ring or encoder ring inside the bearing, inspect the new hub assembly to confirm the correct type is supplied.
3) Remove the axle nut and drive axle
On many rear hub designs, a large axle nut holds the drive axle or stub axle through the hub. Remove the cotter pin and nut retainer if fitted, then loosen the axle nut. The nut can be very tight. Some manufacturers require replacing the nut after removal. Push the axle shaft inward or use an appropriate tool to separate it from the hub. On non-driven rear axles, the procedure may involve only the hub bolts and no axle nut.
4) Unbolt and remove the hub assembly
Remove the bolts securing the hub assembly to the knuckle or trailing arm. Corrosion can make the hub stick to the knuckle. Apply penetrating oil and strike the hub flange or use a slide hammer or pry points without damaging the knuckle. Stop if the knuckle is being deformed or cracked. If the hub will not separate, stop before using excessive force and seek the correct removal tool or professional service.
5) Clean the mounting surface and install the new hub
Clean corrosion and debris from the knuckle mounting surface. The new hub must seat squarely. Apply any specified coating or thread lock only where the service information requires it. Install the new hub and start all bolts by hand, then tighten them to the specified torque in the correct sequence if more than one torque stage is required.
6) Reassemble the axle, brake and wheel
Reinstall the axle through the hub and fit a new axle nut where required. Tighten the axle nut to the manufacturer's torque specification. Many axle nuts use a high torque value that must be reached with the wheel on the ground or with the brake applied to prevent rotation. Do not guess this value. Reinstall the rotor, caliper bracket and caliper, then torque the caliper bracket bolts. Reconnect the wheel speed sensor and secure its wiring away from moving parts.
Completion check
Before lowering the vehicle, turn the hub by hand to confirm it rotates smoothly without binding. Check that the brake hose is not twisted and the sensor wiring is routed correctly. Refit the wheel and lower the vehicle. Torque the lug nuts to the specified value in a star pattern. Pump the brake pedal to restore a firm pedal before moving the vehicle. Then test drive at low speed and listen for noise or looseness. Recheck the hub area for any play and look for fluid leaks or abnormal heat after a short drive.
When to stop and seek service
Do not continue if the correct torque specifications are unavailable, if the axle nut or hub bolts are damaged, if the knuckle shows cracks, or if the hub cannot be removed without excessive force. Replacing a rear wheel bearing hub assembly requires exact tightening values and, on many modern vehicles, precise sensor alignment. If any safety-critical step is unclear for your model year, market or equipment, have the work performed by a qualified technician.