{"id":41673,"date":"2025-05-07T13:03:00","date_gmt":"2025-05-07T17:03:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/?p=41673"},"modified":"2026-02-23T14:58:09","modified_gmt":"2026-02-23T19:58:09","slug":"hub-assemblies-101-all-you-need-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/blog\/hub-assemblies-101-all-you-need-to-know\/","title":{"rendered":"Hub Assemblies 101: All You Need To Know To Extend The Life Of Your Vehicle"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Your hub assembly plays a crucial role in your vehicle\u2019s performance and safety. Regular maintenance and timely replacements can keep your car running smoothly for years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--more-->\n\n\n\n<p>A failing hub assembly can cause steering instability, uneven tire wear, and will eventually seize completely. Below are answers to the most common questions about wheel hub assemblies, including costs, symptoms of failure, and replacement guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1.&nbsp;How Much Does A Hub Assembly Cost?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"41666\" src=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/mechanic-payment-1024x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-41666\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/mechanic-payment-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/mechanic-payment-450x450.jpeg 450w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/mechanic-payment-150x150.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/mechanic-payment-768x768.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/mechanic-payment-300x300.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/mechanic-payment-600x600.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/mechanic-payment-100x100.jpeg 100w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/mechanic-payment.jpeg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"300\" data-id=\"4595\" src=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/high-grade-steel-hubs.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4595\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The cost of a wheel hub assembly varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the quality of the part.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/blog\/avoid-low-quality-hub-assembly\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Economy-grade hub assemblies<\/a> can start from $50 but have a limited lifespan and are not recommended for commercial or fleet vehicles. Premium hub assemblies that are OE-quality or better cost a bit more but last far longer. They are best suited for heavy-duty use, high-mileage applications, performance vehicles, fleets, and vehicles intended to be driven for many years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>GMB manufactures high-quality OE and aftermarket hub assemblies that are engineered for durability and long-lasting performance. You can find GMB\u2019s full selection of <a href=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hub assemblies here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2.&nbsp;Can I Replace A Hub Assembly Myself?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, if you have mechanical experience and the right tools, you can replace a hub assembly. However, the process requires:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A <strong>torque wrench<\/strong>, <strong>breaker bar<\/strong>, and <strong>socket set<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A <strong>hub puller<\/strong> (if the hub is seized onto the spindle)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Jack stands and a hydraulic jack<\/strong> for safe lifting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Knowledge of torque specifications<\/strong> (over-tightening or under-tightening can cause premature failure)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For most DIYers, <a href=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/blog\/common-wheel-hub-mistakes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">replacing a hub assembly<\/a> can take 1 to 3 hours per side. If you&#8217;re unsure, it&#8217;s best to have a professional mechanic handle the job.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3.&nbsp;Where Should I Buy A Hub Assembly?&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"414\" data-id=\"30659\" src=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/impala-hub.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-30659\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/impala-hub.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/impala-hub-450x373.jpeg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" data-id=\"41663\" src=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ujoint-repair-1024x576.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-41663\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ujoint-repair-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ujoint-repair-450x253.jpeg 450w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ujoint-repair-768x432.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ujoint-repair-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ujoint-repair-600x338.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ujoint-repair.jpeg 1880w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We recommend purchasing GMB hub assemblies directly from authorized distributors, parts retailers, or automotive suppliers for the best quality and reliability. Buying a GMB product from an authorized seller ensures you get:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>OE-quality manufacturing<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A properly engineered, vehicle-specific fit<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Warranties and technical support<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Find the right GMB hub assembly for your vehicle <a href=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/product-category\/wheel-bearing-and-hub-assembly\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4.&nbsp;What Are The Symptoms Of A Failing Hub Assembly?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"The Symptoms Of A Failing Hub Assembly\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/46Q0oriidSA?feature=oembed&#038;modestbranding=1&#038;rel=0\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A failing hub assembly can cause several warning signs, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Grinding or roaring noises<\/strong> from the wheels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Uneven tire wear<\/strong> or premature tire damage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Steering instability or vibrations<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you notice any of these symptoms, it&#8217;s time to inspect your hub assembly and replace it if necessary. Read more about this topic <a href=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/blog\/whats-making-brake-noise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5.&nbsp;How Long Does A Hub Assembly Typically Last?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" data-id=\"41654\" src=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/repair-tire.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-41654\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/repair-tire.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/repair-tire-450x300.jpeg 450w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/repair-tire-600x400.jpeg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"401\" data-id=\"5105\" src=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/bearings-hub.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5105\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/bearings-hub.jpg 600w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/bearings-hub-450x301.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/products\/hub-assemblies-wheel-bearings\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">high-quality GMB hub assembly<\/a> can last up to 100,000 miles or longer, but several factors can influence its lifespan, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Driving conditions<\/strong> &#8211; rough roads and potholes accelerate wear. One severe pothole hit can ruin a perfectly good hub.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Proper installation<\/strong> &#8211; torque specifications matter<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Vehicle weight and usage<\/strong> &#8211; towing or heavy loads put more stress on bearings. Fleet vehicles and heavy-duty applications may require more frequent replacements.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6.&nbsp;Can I Drive With A Bad Hub Assembly?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Can I Drive With A Bad Hub Assembly?\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/i3Qt8Bgusec?feature=oembed&#038;modestbranding=1&#038;rel=0\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It is not safe to drive with a failing hub assembly. A bad hub can cause many issues such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cause the wheel to loosen or detach while driving<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lead to erratic steering or pulling to one side<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Trigger ABS failure, reducing braking effectiveness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cause tires to wear out prematurely<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you suspect your hub assembly is failing, replace it immediately. <a href=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/blog\/cost-of-delaying-wheel-hub-replacement\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">This article<\/a> goes into more detail about the dangers of putting off wheel hub replacement.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7.&nbsp;Do I Need To Replace The Hub Assembly On Both Sides At The Same Time?&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"543\" data-id=\"5034\" src=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/wheelhub-bear-assbly.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5034\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/wheelhub-bear-assbly.jpg 640w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/wheelhub-bear-assbly-450x382.jpg 450w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/wheelhub-bear-assbly-600x509.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"923\" height=\"659\" data-id=\"41572\" src=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/mechanic-cost.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-41572\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/mechanic-cost.png 923w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/mechanic-cost-450x321.png 450w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/mechanic-cost-768x548.png 768w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/mechanic-cost-600x428.png 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 923px) 100vw, 923px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>No, you do not have to replace both sides unless:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The other hub is showing similar symptoms of failure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The vehicle has high mileage, and both hubs have similar wear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You want to avoid a second repair later on&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If one hub is failing due to impact damage (e.g., <a href=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/blog\/damage-potholes-cause\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hitting a pothole<\/a>), the other hub may still be in good condition. However, if one side has worn out due to age, the other side may not be far behind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8.&nbsp;What Happens If I Don\u2019t Replace A Failing Hub Assembly?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ignoring a failing hub assembly can lead to <strong>severe safety risks<\/strong>, including:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>A seized hub<\/strong>, making the vehicle undrivable<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wheel detachment<\/strong>, causing a major accident<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Eventual damage to other components<\/strong>, such as axles, control arms, and tires<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The cost of neglecting a bad hub assembly can far exceed the cost of replacing it in time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GMB Has A High-Quality Hub Assembly For Your Vehicle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"331\" data-id=\"5233\" src=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/hub-bearing.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5233\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/hub-bearing.png 640w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/hub-bearing-450x233.png 450w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/hub-bearing-600x310.png 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"300\" data-id=\"5315\" src=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/hub-bearings.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5315\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/hub-bearings.png 640w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/hub-bearings-450x211.png 450w, https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/hub-bearings-600x281.png 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>GMB is a trusted <strong>OE and aftermarket parts manufacturer<\/strong> with decades of experience producing high-performance hub assemblies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you suspect an issue with your wheel bearing and hub assembly or need a quality replacement, check out our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/product-category\/wheel-bearing-and-hub-assembly\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">catalog&nbsp;<\/a>or&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/gmb.net\/contact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">contact<\/a>&nbsp;our team for expert advice!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your hub assembly plays a crucial role in your vehicle\u2019s performance and safety. Regular maintenance and timely replacements can keep your car running smoothly for years.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":5105,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_searchwp_excluded":"","editor_notices":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[46,60],"tags":[90044,64,49],"class_list":["post-41673","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-maintenance-tips","category-undercar","tag-wheel-bearings-and-hub-assembly","tag-wheel-hub-assembly","tag-wheel-hubs"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/41673","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=41673"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/41673\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":43861,"href":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/41673\/revisions\/43861"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5105"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=41673"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=41673"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gmb.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=41673"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}