How do I know if my Subaru Outback wheel bearings are bad?

In most cases, a failing wheel bearing in a Subaru Outback shows up as a growing rumble or grind, vibrations through the steering wheel or cabin, and sometimes a wiggle in the wheel when you lift the car. A professional inspection is essential to confirm the issue and plan safe repair.

Wheel bearings in the Outback are typically integrated into the hub assembly. Wear can result from moisture, contamination, or simply aging. This guide explains the common signs, how technicians test for bearing problems, and what you can expect if replacement is needed.

Common symptoms to watch for

These signs are the most frequently reported indicators of a bad wheel bearing, though they can overlap with brakes, tires, CV joints, or suspension problems. A precise diagnosis helps prevent unsafe driving conditions.

• Unusual noises that change with speed or during turns — a rumble, hum, growl, or grinding likely coming from one wheel area.


• Steering wheel vibration or a noticeable wobble at highway speeds, especially when maintaining speed or during acceleration.


• Wheel play or looseness when the vehicle is lifted and the wheel is checked for movement.


• ABS or traction-control warning lights illuminating or flashing, potentially tied to a faulty wheel-speed sensor in the hub.


• Pulling to one side or an uneven braking feel, which can indicate asymmetric bearing wear.


• Grease leakage or contamination around the hub area or onto brake components from a compromised seal.


• Excessive heat radiating from a wheel area after a drive, or a noticeable odor near the wheel.

If you notice any of these symptoms, arrange a diagnostic as soon as possible. Driving with a failing wheel bearing can risk wheel separation or loss of steering control.

How professionals diagnose wheel bearing issues

To distinguish bearing problems from brakes, tires, CV joints, and suspension, technicians follow a structured approach. The steps below summarize a typical professional evaluation.

1. Road test the vehicle to determine if the noise changes with speed, load, or steering input.


2. Inspect the wheel hub for obvious damage and check for play by lifting the car and rocking the wheel at 3 and 9 o’clock positions.


3. Use a stethoscope or mechanic’s listening tool to localize the noise source at the hub area.


4. Check wheel bearing runout with appropriate instruments (where available) to assess stability of the hub assembly.


5. Scan ABS/traction-control systems with a diagnostic tool to identify wheel-speed sensor faults or wheel-end communication issues.


6. Inspect brakes, tires, and CV joints to rule out alternate causes of noise or vibration.


7. Decide on replacement strategy based on findings and the vehicle’s overall condition.

Note that some steps require specialized tools and expertise. A conclusive diagnosis should come from a trained technician.

Replacement options and what to expect

When a wheel bearing or hub is found faulty on a Subaru Outback, the repair approach often centers on the hub assembly. In many newer Outback models, the wheel bearing is integrated into the hub unit, so technicians replace the entire hub assembly rather than a standalone bearing.

Hub assembly vs bearings-only replacement

In practice, most Subaru Outback repairs use hub assemblies because the bearing is built into the hub. Bearing-only replacements are less common on newer designs and depend on the exact year and model variant. A shop will confirm the best approach based on access to parts and the design of your vehicle.

• Hub assembly replacement (front and/or rear) — the standard repair path for modern hub-and-bearing designs; includes the bearing, hub, seals, and mounting hardware.


• Bearings-only replacement — may be possible in older designs or if the carrier allows it; not typical on most current Outbacks.


• Replacing both sides if both bearings show wear — helps maintain balanced handling and noise levels.


• Other related items to consider — warped rotors, seized calipers, or contaminated brakes can accompany bearing issues and may require service.

Costs vary by model year, local labor rates, and whether a hub assembly or standalone bearing is required. It’s wise to obtain multiple quotes and ensure the shop verifies there are no other contributing issues before replacing parts.

Safety and maintenance reminders

Dealing with wheel-end components demands caution. If you hear persistent noise, feel steering irregularities, or notice a wheel pulling, stop driving when safely possible and seek professional assessment. Timely diagnosis and repair help preserve safety and keep your Outback handling predictable.

Summary

Bad wheel bearings in a Subaru Outback typically manifest as a mounting rumble or grinding noise, steering wheel vibration, wheel play when the car is raised, and possibly ABS warning lights. A precise diagnosis requires road testing, physical checks, and diagnostic tools to rule out brakes, tires, CV joints, and suspension. On most modern Outbacks, the repair involves replacing the hub assembly rather than just a bearing. Costs vary based on model year, location, and whether a hub unit or bearing-only repair is needed. If symptoms appear, seek a professional inspection promptly to ensure safe driving and proper repair.

How long do Subaru Outback wheel bearings last?

Typically, there is no maintenance required for your Subaru wheel bearings, but a replacement is usually needed after 100,000 miles of driving. Subaru features two different types of wheel bearings, and your model might have one or the other, depending on how old it is.

How do I check if my wheel bearing is bad?

To check for a bad wheel bearing, carefully lift the vehicle and spin the wheel by hand, listening for grinding, humming, or clicking sounds. Also, shake the wheel in and out at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions; any play or looseness indicates a potential problem. A failed bearing may also cause a vibration in the steering wheel or a pulling sensation.
 
Step 1: Safely lift the vehicle
This video demonstrates how to safely lift a vehicle to check the wheel bearing: 47sChrisFixYouTube · Jun 12, 2015

• Park on a level surface and apply the parking brake. 
• Place wheel chocks behind the wheels on the opposite end of the car to prevent it from rolling. 
• Use a jack to lift the corner of the car with the suspected bad wheel. 
• Place jack stands under the frame to safely support the vehicle before proceeding. 

Step 2: Inspect the wheel 

• Spin the wheel: With the car still lifted, grab the wheel and spin it by hand. Listen carefully for any irregular sounds like humming, grinding, or clicking. 
• Check for play: Grab the wheel at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions (sides) and try to shake it back and forth. Also, check for play in the 12 and 6 o'clock positions (top and bottom). A bad wheel bearing may allow for movement in these directions, while a good one will feel solid. 

Step 3: Listen for noises while driving 
This video explains how the noise of a bad wheel bearing can change while driving: 53sDIY Auto HomeschoolYouTube · Sep 16, 2019

• Drive at a moderate speed (e.g., 40-50 mph). 
• Listen for a humming or grinding noise that changes in pitch or volume as you turn the steering wheel left and right. The noise may get louder when turning in one direction and quieter when turning in the other. 

Other signs of a bad wheel bearing

• Steering wheel vibration: You may feel a vibration or shaking in the steering wheel, especially when driving at higher speeds. 
• Uneven tire wear: A bad wheel bearing can cause your tires to wear down unevenly. 
• Car pulling: Your car may pull to one side because of the increased friction from a failing bearing. 
• ABS warning light: In some cases, a bad bearing can cause the ABS warning light to illuminate. 

What is one of the first signs of bearing failure?

Early indications of bearing failure can include machinery that is running unevenly, or at an exceptionally loud volume, or with reduced accuracy. There are also some visual signs to look for. Here are 5 common signs of bearing failure: Abrasion - Generally caused by excessive wear and friction against mating hardware.

How do I know if my Subaru wheel bearings are bad?

Common Subaru wheel bearing symptoms include loud humming, grinding, or clicking noises that change with speed or turning, vibrations felt in the steering wheel or cabin, loose steering or pulling to one side, and uneven tire wear. The ABS light may also illuminate if the bearing's excess play damages the wheel speed sensor. 
Auditory symptoms

• Humming or grinding: A common sign is a loud, rhythmic humming or grinding noise that intensifies with speed. 
• Clicking or popping: You may hear a clicking or popping sound, especially when turning. 
• Noise changes with turns: The noise often gets louder when turning in one direction and quieter when turning the other, as weight shifts to one wheel. 

Driving and handling symptoms

• Vibrations: A vibrating or shaking sensation in the steering wheel or the car's body, particularly at higher speeds. 
• Pulling: The vehicle may pull to one side, especially when braking. 
• Loose steering: The steering may feel loose, with unusual play when you turn the wheel. 
• Wobbling: The wheel might wobble or feel loose. 

Other symptoms

• Uneven tire wear: Look for abnormal or uneven wear patterns on your tires, as this is a key indicator. 
• ABS light: The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light can come on if the bearing's failure causes the wheel speed sensor to malfunction. 
• Decreased handling: Overall handling performance may feel decreased, making the car feel less stable during turns.