How Long Does It Take to Replace a Hub Assembly?

Quick Answer

Replacing a hub assembly (wheel bearing and hub unit) takes 1 – 3 hours per wheel. Most modern vehicles use bolt-on hub assemblies that simplify the job, but older designs with press-in bearings or heavily corroded hardware can push the repair toward the longer end.

Hub Assembly Types and Timing

Hub Type	Typical Time per Wheel	Common Vehicles
Bolt-on hub assembly (front)	1–1.5 hours	Most modern cars and trucks
Bolt-on hub assembly (rear)	1–2 hours	SUVs, trucks, AWD sedans
Press-in bearing (front)	2–3 hours	Older Hondas, Subarus, some imports
Press-in bearing (rear)	2–3 hours	Compact cars, older designs
4WD with locking hub	1.5–2.5 hours	Trucks, Jeeps

Signs You Need a Hub Assembly Replacement

• Humming or growling noise that changes with speed, especially noticeable during turns
• ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
• Vibration in the steering wheel or through the vehicle floor
• Excessive play when rocking the tire at 12 and 6 o'clock positions
• Uneven tire wear on the affected wheel

What the Job Involves

Bolt-On Hub Assembly (Most Common)

1. Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel – Standard jack and jack stand procedure.
2. Remove the brake caliper and rotor – Hang the caliper with a wire to avoid stressing the brake hose.
3. Disconnect the ABS sensor – Unplug the wiring harness from the hub.
4. Remove the hub bolts – Usually three or four bolts accessed from behind the knuckle.
5. Extract the old hub – Penetrating oil and a slide hammer may be needed if corrosion is present.
6. Install the new hub – Torque bolts to manufacturer specification.
7. Reassemble brakes and wheel – Reinstall rotor, caliper, and wheel.

Press-In Bearing Replacement

This type requires removing the steering knuckle entirely and using a hydraulic press to remove and install the bearing. Most DIYers will need to bring the knuckle to a machine shop, adding time and cost.

Cost Breakdown

• Parts: $50–$250 per hub assembly (OEM vs. aftermarket)
• Labor: $150–$400 per wheel at a shop
• Total: $200–$650 per wheel installed

Factors That Add Time

• Rust belt vehicles – Corroded hub bolts may need to be cut or torched out, adding 30–60 minutes.
• Seized hub flange – Requires a slide hammer or hub puller, adding 15–30 minutes.
• ABS sensor issues – Damaged sensor wiring during removal may need repair.
• Multiple wheels – Doing both sides doubles the labor but offers some efficiency gains.

DIY Feasibility

Bolt-on hub assemblies are a solid intermediate-level DIY project. You will need a torque wrench, socket set, breaker bar, and potentially a slide hammer. Press-in bearings are not recommended for home mechanics without a hydraulic press.

Bottom Line

Budget 1 – 3 hours per wheel for a hub assembly replacement. Bolt-on designs on rust-free vehicles are quick; press-in bearings and corroded hardware take longer.