Hub and Bearing

The wheel hub and bearings take tremendous force as the vehicle travels down the road. It supports the vehicle's weight as it accelerates, decelerates, and corners. Many have a wheel speed sensor or its companion tone ring incorporated into their design. A damaged sensor or tone ring produces a corrupt signal and an amber ABS light.

The hub in the illustration has a sealed bearing installed. One part of the hub attaches to the spindle, and the other attaches to the wheel; the wheel bearing spins between the two. A worn wheel bearing results in a grinding or growling sound that increases with vehicle speed.

Striking a curb or pothole or excessive heat from the brake system or bearing can damage or warp the hub's flange. A warped hub causes a vibration that increases with vehicle speed.