Parts for your 2008 Holden Commodore-Wheel hubs

2008 Holden Commodore wheel hubs: what they do and when to replace them

Wheel hubs are absolutely relevant on the 2008 Holden Commodore (VE). The Holden VE factory workshop manual (Chassis and Driveline sections) specifies bolt‑on hub and bearing assemblies at the front and rear, each with an integrated ABS encoder. GM/ACDelco parts catalogues list sealed hub assemblies for VE variants, and major bearing manufacturers (e.g., Timken and SKF) document a unitised hub/bearing for this platform. So yes, the 2008 Commodore uses wheel hubs, and they’re a key service item over the car’s life.

The hub’s job is to carry the wheel studs, support the vehicle’s weight through the sealed bearing, and let the wheel spin smoothly. On the VE, the disc rotor mounts to the hub, and the ABS reads a magnetic encoder built into the hub seal. If the hub’s bearing wears, it can cause noise, vibration, braking issues, and ABS faults.

Common signs a Commodore hub is on the way out include:

• A humming, growling, or droning that changes with speed or when loading the car left/right
• Play felt at the wheel when rocked at 12 and 6 o’clock, or uneven tyre wear
• ABS light or pulsation from a damaged encoder/seal
• Heat at the wheel centre after a drive, or a rough feel when spinning the wheel off the ground

There’s no fixed replacement interval because the VE uses sealed, maintenance‑free units. Many last well past 120,000 km, but Aussie and Kiwi roads, larger wheels, potholes, and towing can shorten their life. A quick hub/bearing check at each service from around 80,000 km is smart—spin the wheels, feel for roughness, and check for play and noise.

When replacement is due, it’s a bolt‑off, bolt‑on job—no pressing required. A few tips owners and techs appreciate:

• Match the hub to the exact model/VIN to get the correct ABS encoder type
• Clean the knuckle face and rotor hat, check run‑out to avoid brake shudder
• Torque the axle nut and hub bolts to Holden specs—don’t rattle‑gun them home
• Keep metal filings away from the magnetic encoder, inspect the ABS sensor and wiring
• If one side has failed at high kilometres, consider doing both fronts or both rears

Quality hubs from reputable brands and proper torqueing make a big difference to longevity. Sticking with correct wheel offset and avoiding curb hits will also help the Commodore’s hubs live a long, quiet life.

Do all 2008 VE Commodores use hubs with ABS encoders?

Yes. VE models use active wheel speed sensors that read a magnetic encoder built into the hub/bearing seal. Mixing the wrong hub type can trigger ABS faults, so ordering by VIN is the safest bet.

Do the hubs need pressing in and out?

No. The VE uses sealed, bolt‑on hub and bearing assemblies. They unbolt from the knuckle. Presses are not needed, but correct torque and clean mounting faces are essential.

Can a worn hub cause brake shudder or steering vibration?

It can. Excessive bearing play or a distorted mounting face can create rotor run‑out and steering shake. If shudder keeps returning after new rotors and pads, check hub condition and run‑out.