What to Know Before Installing Replacement Hub Assemblies

Hub assemblies might not be the flashiest part of your vehicle, but they play a critical role in both safety and performance. Whether you're tackling a DIY replacement or you're a professional in the shop, it's important to understand what goes into a successful hub assembly installation. At GSP North America, we manufacture direct replacement hub assemblies that meet or exceed OEM specs—designed for reliability, easy installation, and long-term performance.

Before you pick up your tools, here’s what you need to know to get the job done right.

1. Understand What a Hub Assembly Does

The hub assembly connects the wheel to the vehicle’s suspension and allows it to rotate freely while supporting the vehicle’s weight. It typically contains:

• The wheel bearing

• A hub flange to mount the wheel

• ABS sensor (if applicable)

A failing hub can lead to poor handling, vibrations, uneven tire wear, and even wheel separation—so replacement isn’t something to delay.

2. Identify the Symptoms of a Bad Hub

Before replacing a hub assembly, confirm that it’s the root cause of your issue. Common signs of a failing hub or wheel bearing include:

• Humming or growling noise while driving (increases with speed)

• Vibration through the steering wheel or vehicle body

• ABS warning light (if equipped with a sensor)

• Uneven tire wear or loose steering feel

• A clicking sound when turning

Confirming the issue ahead of time prevents unnecessary part swaps and saves time.

3. Clean and Inspect the Surrounding Area

Before installing a new hub, it’s critical to thoroughly clean the knuckle or mounting surface. Rust, dirt, or debris can prevent proper seating of the new hub and throw off alignment.

Also inspect:

• The CV axle splines

• Brake dust shields

• Mounting bolts and threads

• ABS wiring

If the old hub failed due to corrosion or impact damage, it’s best to replace any damaged components at the same time.

4. Use the Right Torque Specs

Hub assemblies are precision components—and proper torque is essential to avoid premature failure. Over-tightening or under-tightening can cause:

• Bearing preload issues

• Warped components

• Noise or vibration

Always refer to the manufacturer’s torque specs for both the hub bolts and axle nut. GSP hubs are designed to OE specifications, so using OE torque values is recommended for proper function.

5. Avoid Reusing Old Hardware

It may be tempting to reuse old bolts or axle nuts, but in many cases, these are torque-to-yield fasteners designed for one-time use. Reusing them can compromise the installation and lead to safety issues.

GSP hub assemblies are often sold with new hardware to make the job easier and safer—always verify what's included before starting your install.

6. Align and Test After Installation

After replacing the hub, it’s a good idea to:

• Check wheel alignment (especially if steering feel has changed)

• Perform a road test to check for noise, vibration, or ABS operation

• Torque the wheels properly to avoid introducing any stress to the hub

Taking a few extra minutes post-install ensures the new hub is operating as it should.

Why Choose GSP Hub Assemblies?

At GSP North America, our hub assemblies are engineered for:

• OE fit and function

• Corrosion resistance

• High load durability

• Long service life

Our parts are built for installers—pre-greased, sealed, and often equipped with ABS sensors and hardware for a smooth install.

Whether you're replacing a single hub or doing a full front-end refresh, GSP provides the reliability and performance you need to keep rolling safely.