Parts for your 2002 Mazda Premacy-Wheel hubs

2002 Mazda Premacy wheel hubs — what they do and how to look after them

Wheel hubs are absolutely used on the 2002 Mazda Premacy. Technical sources such as the Mazda Premacy (CP series, 1999–2004) Workshop Manual sections covering Front Hub/Knuckle and Rear Hub, the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue for CP8W/CPFW variants, and the Haynes manual for Mazda 323 & Premacy (1998–2004) all specify front and rear hub-and-bearing assemblies, with ABS-equipped models using hubs that incorporate a magnetic encoder ring. So yes — this model relies on sealed wheel hubs to locate the wheels, carry vehicle loads, and, up front, to transmit drive through the CV shafts.

On a 2002 Premacy, each wheel hub centres the wheel, houses a sealed bearing, and bolts to the knuckle (front) or rear trailing assembly. The front hubs take drive from the splined CV shaft, while the rears freewheel unless the vehicle is an all-wheel-drive variant. ABS versions read wheel speed from a tone ring or encoder in the hub, feeding the stability and braking systems.

They’re sealed-for-life bearings, so there’s no routine greasing. During regular servicing, it’s smart to check for early wear: spin each wheel off the ground and listen for a low rumble, feel for roughness, and rock the tyre at 12 and 6 o’clock to detect play. Common tell-tales include humming that changes with speed, vibration through the seat or steering, uneven tyre wear, warmth around the hub after a drive, or an ABS light if the encoder is damaged.

• If replacement’s needed, choose quality hubs/bearings that match ABS spec. Mixing ABS/non-ABS types won’t end well.
• Have the axle nut torqued to the workshop spec and staked/replaced as required. Over- or under-tightening kills new bearings quickly.
• Avoid hammering on the hub or letting the car’s weight sit on a loose bearing during installation — it can bruise the races.
• If the front knuckle is removed, a wheel alignment check afterwards is a good idea.
• While hubs don’t have a set replacement interval, many owners opt to do them in pairs on the same axle to keep noise and feel consistent.

Look after the hubs and they’ll usually run quietly for well over 150,000 km. Catching wear early saves tyres, protects brakes, and keeps the Premacy feeling tidy on Kiwi and Aussie roads.

How can someone tell if a Premacy wheel hub is failing?

Listen for a growl or hum that rises with road speed and may change when gently steering left or right. Check for play at the wheel rim, uneven tyre wear, or an ABS light. A mechanic can confirm by spinning the wheel and using a stethoscope on the knuckle or trailing arm.

Is it safe to keep driving with a noisy hub bearing?

Not ideal. A worn bearing can overheat, increase stopping distances, upset ABS readings, and in the worst case seize. Short trips to a workshop are usually fine, but it’s best to book a replacement sooner rather than later.

Are the front and rear hubs the same on a 2002 Premacy?

No. Front hubs are driven via the CV shafts and often differ in size and design from the rears. ABS-equipped cars use hubs with an encoder ring, always match parts to the car’s VIN and brake/ABS setup.