Common Wheel Hub Problems For The Jeep Wrangler

If you have a Jeep Wrangler, odds are you’ll experience issues with the wheel hubs at some point. Here’s a list of symptoms related to wheel hub failure on the Jeep Wrangler, as well as some diagnostic tips, repair info, recommended parts, and background information.

 Jeep Wrangler Wheel Hub Failure Symptoms

• Steering wheel vibration
• Grinding or humming noise when driving
• Knocking or clunking noise when cornering
• Pulling to one side when driving
• Uneven tire wear
• Play in wheel bearing

Wheel Hub Diagnosis And Repair Tips

There are a few ways to diagnose a bad wheel hub. A symptom like those above is a clue pointing you in the right direction. However, those symptoms are not exclusive to a bad wheel hub. Jack up your Jeep so the wheels are off the ground and wiggle your wheels with your hands. If there is any movement, then it is time to replace your wheel hubs. You can read more about diagnosing a failing wheel hub here.

Even though you may only have one bad wheel hub, it is best to recommend the wheel hub for the other wheel on the same axle. Both wheels on the axle have likely experienced the same amount of stress. This means its failure is inevitable. Replacing both would save time and money.

It takes 1 to 2 hours for an experienced mechanic to replace a wheel hub. If the wheel hub is stuck, it can take longer. There are several parts that need to be removed in order to replace the wheel hub. It is not recommended to replace the wheel hub as a DIY project unless you are an experienced mechanic.

Recommended Replacement Wheel Hubs

Using high quality replacement parts is one of the best ways to build customer loyalty. GMB is a leading brand for replacement wheel hubs. GMB recomments this wheel bearing and hub assembly for 2011-18 Jeep Wranglers:

• 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler: GMB Part # 720-3150

Why Do Jeep Wranglers Have Wheel Hub Problems?

The entire weight of the Jeep Wrangler sits on the wheel hubs. This subjects them to high radial forces in straight lines and axial forces through curves. Hitting potholes at speed is a major cause of wheel hub failure. Also, running oversize tires with a larger than stock offset causes hub bearing to wear out faster. Use on off road trails is usually not a cause of hub failure, as vehicle speeds are too low to cause substantial shocks to the hubs.  

All wheel hubs eventually fail. Driving habits and vehicle use contribute to how soon your wheel hubs fail. Other factors such as unbalanced tires, bad alignment, and larger off-road tires can also contribute to premature wheel hub failure. Read more about how off-road tires affect your vehicle here.