Parts for your 2005 Toyota Highlander-Wheel hubs

2005 Toyota Highlander wheel hubs — what they do and when to replace them

Wheel hubs are absolutely fitted to the 2005 Toyota Highlander. Toyota’s factory Repair Manual (Toyota TIS, XU20 Highlander, Front Axle Hub/Rear Axle Hub procedures) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue list bolt-on hub and bearing assemblies for front and rear positions on both 2WD and AWD variants. Major technical catalogues from OEM suppliers also specify complete hub-and-bearing units for this model, confirming the part’s relevance.

On this Highlander, the hub is the central mounting point for the wheel and brake rotor, with an integrated, sealed bearing that lets the wheel spin smoothly. Many assemblies also carry the ABS encoder ring, so the hub plays a part in brake and stability control systems as well. Because the bearings are sealed-for-life, they’re not serviceable in the traditional sense—when worn, the whole hub assembly is replaced.

Typical signs the Highlander’s hub is on the way out include a droning or growling noise that rises with road speed, play when rocking the wheel at 12 and 6 o’clock, ABS or VSC warning lamps (if the encoder is damaged), heat at the hub after a drive, or uneven tyre wear. A quick check during routine servicing—spin the wheel, feel for roughness, and check for play—goes a long way.

Replacement is straightforward for a professional: the unit bolts to the steering knuckle (front) or rear carrier. Points to keep in mind:

• Use quality hub assemblies matched to VIN, especially for ABS-equipped cars.
• Replace single-use hardware like axle nuts and hub bolts where specified by Toyota.
• Tighten all fasteners to factory torque specs