How to remove a Subaru wheel hub?
In most Subaru models, removing the wheel hub involves taking off the wheel, removing the brake components, disconnecting the axle if needed, unbolting the hub from the steering knuckle, and then pulling the hub free. This guide covers common front- and rear-hub removal steps and highlights model-specific variations you may encounter.
Subaru hub designs vary by year and model (Impreza, Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, WRX, etc.). Some hubs are bolt-on bearing assemblies; others are integrated with the rotor. Always consult the factory service manual for exact fastener sizes, torque specs, sensor locations, and any model-specific warnings. Work safely: secure the vehicle on jack stands, keep the brakes and ABS wiring in good condition, and replace any corroded hardware as needed.
What you’ll need
Gather the tools and safety items below before you start to ensure you can complete the job without interruption.
- Jack and jack stands (and wheel chocks)
- Lug wrench or impact wrench for removing wheels
- Metric socket set (common sizes include 12mm, 14mm, 17mm, and a possible 30–32mm for the axle nut)
- Breaker bar and torque wrench
- Pry bar or flat-head pry tool
- Hammer or rubber mallet
- Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster) for seized bolts
- ABS sensor connector tool or care when disconnecting the ABS wire
- New hub assembly or replacement bolts as required
- Gloves and eye protection
Having the right tools on hand helps prevent damage to components and reduces the risk of injury during removal and reinstallation.
Steps to remove the hub
This section outlines steps for two common hub configurations found on Subarus. Choose the procedure that matches your model: front-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive hubs with a through-axle, or rear wheel hubs. The exact order can vary by year, so defer to your service manual for model-specific nuances.
Front-wheel-drive / all-wheel-drive hubs (hub through the axle)
The following steps cover the typical front hub removal process where the CV axle passes through the hub. A hub pull may be required if corrosion binds the unit to the knuckle.
- Secure the vehicle: park on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, place wheel chocks, and raise the car with a jack. Support with jack stands as per safety guidelines.
- Remove the wheel: loosen lug nuts, lift, and take the wheel off the hub.
- Remove the brake components: unbolt and remove the caliper and caliper bracket using the appropriate socket size, then hang the caliper with a wire or bungee so it does not strain the brake hose. Remove the rotor if it obstructs access to the hub bolts.
- Disconnect the ABS sensor if applicable: unplug the ABS/wheel-speed sensor connector and tuck the harness safely away from moving parts.
- Free the hub from the knuckle: locate and remove the mounting bolts that attach the hub to the steering knuckle (typically 3–4 bolts). Use penetrating oil on stubborn threads and avoid twisting or bending the knuckle.
- Handle the axle: loosen and remove the axle nut if required by your model (common sizes are 30–32 mm). Keep the axle aligned to prevent damage to the inner CV joint or transmission seal. You may need to hold the CV joint with a pry bar or have a helper to prevent rotation while loosening the nut.
- Remove the hub: slide the hub straight out of the knuckle. If it sticks due to corrosion, gently tap around the hub’s outer edge with a mallet or use a hub puller if you have one. Ensure the CV axle remains seated in the transmission during removal.
- Inspect and prepare for installation: clean the knuckle surface, check for damaged seals, and have the new hub ready. If you’re replacing the bearing, install the new hub assembly and torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s specification.
The above steps are a common framework; if your Subaru uses a different arrangement or a sealed bearing with a press-fit, follow the model-specific procedure and consider professional service if any step seems uncertain.
Rear wheel hubs
Rear hub removal in Subarus typically involves a bolt-on hub assembly with the rotor and brake components also in the way. Some models use four bolts to attach the hub to the knuckle, and the axle is not removed from the hub in the same way as the front.
- Secure the vehicle and remove the wheel, as described above.
- Remove brake components: unbolt the caliper and caliper bracket, then remove the rotor if needed to access the hub fasteners.
- Disconnect the ABS sensor: carefully unplug and secure the sensor wiring.
- Unbolt the hub from the knuckle: remove the hub-to-knuckle bolts (usually four). If the hub is corroded, apply penetrating oil and use a hub puller if necessary.
- Remove the hub: slide the hub assembly away from the knuckle and off the axle shaft. Be mindful of any washer or spacer that may accompany the hub installation.
- Prepare for reinstallation: inspect the knuckle surface for corrosion, verify the ABS sensor ring is intact, and have the new hub assembly ready for installation. Torque the bolts to the specified value when reinstalling.
Rear hub removal generally avoids the axle nut step required on some front hubs, but always verify with your model’s service manual to ensure you do not miss a critical fastener or sensor connection.
Aftercare and reinstallation tips
When reinstalling a hub, use the new fasteners if provided, and torque all bolts to the supplier’s specifications. Reconnect any sensors, reinstall the brake rotor and caliper, and reinstall the wheel. Don’t forget to lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to the correct spec in a star pattern. Finally, test the brakes at low speed in a safe area to confirm proper function and listen for unusual noises that could indicate improper installation.
Summary
Removing a Subaru wheel hub requires careful disassembly of the brake components, possible removal of the axle nut, and unbolting the hub from the steering knuckle. The exact steps vary by model year and hub type (front vs rear, through-axle vs dedicated rear hub). Always consult the vehicle’s service manual for torque specs and any model-specific instructions, and prioritize safety with proper supports, gloves, and eye protection. If you’re unsure about any step, seek professional assistance to avoid damage to the drivetrain or brake system.
