Parts for your 2008 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Wheel hubs

2008 Toyota Vitz/Yaris Wheel Hubs

Yes, wheel hubs are absolutely used on the 2008 Toyota Vitz/Yaris (XP90). Technical sources including the Toyota Repair Manual for 2006–2011 Yaris (TIS) sections “Front Axle Hub” and “Rear Axle Hub and Bearing,” plus Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) and common aftermarket manuals (e.g., Haynes Yaris 2006–2017), all show front hub/bearing components and a bolt-on rear hub and bearing assembly. So wheel hubs are relevant to this model, both front and rear.

On this Vitz/Yaris, the hub’s job is to securely mount the wheel and brake, carry the bearings, and let the wheel spin smoothly while keeping everything aligned with the suspension. Up front, the hub and sealed bearing are pressed into the steering knuckle and support the brake disc and wheel. Down the back, most variants use a sealed, bolt-on hub and bearing that sits under the brake drum. Many models also integrate the ABS encoder within the bearing, so the hub assembly talks to the car’s stability and ABS systems.

Servicing-wise, hubs don’t need routine lubrication—the bearings are sealed—but they do benefit from checks during regular servicing, especially once the car’s clocked higher kilometres. Common signs a hub/bearing is on the way out include a humming or growling noise that rises with road speed, a rumble that changes when cornering, ABS warning lights, and play when rocking the tyre at 12 and 6 o’clock.

• If replacing: front hubs require a press and proper support of the knuckle, rears are usually a bolt-off/bolt-on hub unit.
• Always torque the axle nut and hub bolts to the factory spec and use new hardware (axle nut/cotter pin) where specified.
• Keep metal filings and magnets away from bearings with magnetic ABS encoders, contamination can trigger ABS faults.
• After front hub work, a wheel alignment check is smart, and recheck wheel nut torque after a short shakedown drive.
• Quality parts matter—choose hubs that match your VIN/ABS setup to avoid sensor issues.

Driving on a failing hub can chew out tyres, upset braking, and stress other suspension parts. Sorting it early keeps the Yaris/Vitz quiet, safe, and tidy on New Zealand and Australian roads.

Popular questions about 2008 Toyota Vitz/Yaris wheel hubs

Do these Yaris/Vitz hubs have serviceable bearings?
They’re sealed bearings. Up front, the bearing is pressed into the knuckle with the hub flange, at the rear it’s typically a sealed, bolt-on hub/bearing unit under the drum. There’s no grease-and-adjust routine—when worn, the bearing or hub assembly is replaced.

How long do hubs last, and what are the warning signs?
Many last well past 120,000–200,000 km, depending on roads and loads. Warning signs include a speed-related hum, vibration, ABS light, or free play when rocking the wheel. Noise that gets louder when turning one way often points to the opposite side bearing.

Can a DIYer replace them at home?
Rear hub units are manageable with basic tools and a torque wrench. Front hubs typically need a press and careful setup to avoid damaging the new bearing—many home mechanics leave the front to a workshop. Either way, follow torque specs and confirm ABS operation after the job.