Subaru Outback Wheel Bearing
Complete guide with costs, step-by-step instructions, and repair options
DIY Cost
$40-$100
Time Required
~120 min
Difficulty
Moderate (6/10)
Official Warranty
2 years
Cost Comparison
DIY Repair
$40-$100
Parts only — you do the labor
Third-Party Shop
$200-$400
Parts + professional labor
Official Repair
$300-$550
Manufacturer service center
Tools & Parts Needed (DIY)
Always use the correct tools for your specific model. Using wrong-sized screwdrivers can strip screws and cause additional damage.
Step-by-Step DIY Guide
Follow these steps carefully. Take photos at each stage for reference during reassembly.
Raise and secure the vehicle
Lift your Subaru Outback and place it on jack stands. Remove the wheel.
Remove the brake components and hub
Remove the brake caliper and rotor. Disconnect the ABS wheel speed sensor. Remove the hub nut (this may require an impact wrench — they are typically torqued to 150–200 ft-lbs).
Remove the bearing assembly
For bolt-on hub assemblies (most modern cars): remove the 3–4 bolts from behind the steering knuckle and pull the hub assembly out. For press-in bearings: the entire knuckle must be removed and the bearing pressed out with a hydraulic press.
Install the new bearing
For bolt-on: mount the new hub assembly, torque the bolts, and install the new hub nut. For press-in: press the new bearing into the knuckle using the correct driver size. Reinstall the knuckle.
Reassemble and test
Reinstall the ABS sensor, rotor, caliper, and wheel. Torque the lug nuts. Drive and listen — the humming or growling should be completely gone. Verify ABS is not triggering a warning light.
Is It Worth Repairing?
Your Subaru Outback is currently worth approximately $33,000. A wheel bearing through a third-party shop costs $200-$400, which is 1% of the device value.
This repair is worth it. The cost is well below 50% of the device value, making repair the financially smart choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does wheel bearing cost for a Subaru Outback?
DIY repair costs $40-$100 for parts only. Third-party repair shops charge $200-$400 including labor. Official Subaru repair costs $300-$550. The best option depends on your skill level, budget, and warranty preferences.
Can I do wheel bearing myself?
This repair has a difficulty rating of 6/10 (Moderate). This repair requires moderate skill and some experience with electronics. Follow a detailed guide carefully and take your time.
How long does wheel bearing take?
Wheel Bearing on a Subaru Outback typically takes approximately 120 minutes. This includes disassembly, the actual repair, reassembly, and testing. First-time repairs may take 50-100% longer. Professional shops can often complete it faster due to experience and specialized tools.
Is it worth repairing my Subaru Outback?
Your Subaru Outback is worth approximately $33,000. A wheel bearing through a third-party shop costs $200-$400 (about 1% of device value). This repair is definitely worth it — the cost is well under half the device value.
What warranty options are available?
DIY repairs typically come with None warranty on the parts themselves. Third-party shops usually offer 1 year on parts and labor. Official Subaru repair comes with 2 years warranty and uses genuine OEM parts. For maximum peace of mind and warranty coverage, official repair is the safest choice.
External Resources
Trusted third-party resources for this repair: