Parts for your 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer-Wheel hubs

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer wheel hubs — what they do and how to look after them

Wheel hubs are absolutely used on the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer (CJ series). This is documented in Mitsubishi’s factory Service Manual for the CJ Lancer (Front Axle/Rear Axle groups), which specifies bolt-on hub and bearing assemblies at the front and rear. The Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue also lists hub assemblies for this model, and major bearing manufacturers’ catalogues (such as SKF, NSK and Timken) supply complete hub units for 2008–2015 Lancer. So, yes—wheel hubs are relevant and fitted to the 2009 Lancer.

On this Lancer, the wheel hub is the central mounting point for the wheel and brake rotor/drum, and it houses a sealed-for-life bearing. The front hubs support steering and drive loads on FWD variants, while the rears carry radial and axial loads from the road. Most assemblies integrate an ABS encoder ring, allowing the wheel speed sensor to read accurately for ABS and stability control.

They’re not a high-maintenance item, but they do work hard every kilometre. During regular servicing, it’s smart to check for noise, play and heat. A low humming that rises with speed, a grumble when turning, an ABS warning light, uneven tyre wear or any looseness when rocking the wheel at 12 and 6 o’clock all point to a tired hub/bearing. Because the bearings are sealed, they’re not greasable, when worn, the fix is replacement of the hub assembly.

• There’s no fixed replacement interval—many last well beyond 150,000 km—but road conditions, impacts and water ingress can shorten life.
• When replacing, choose quality hubs that are ABS-compatible for the Lancer’s build. Mixing the wrong encoder type can trigger an ABS fault.
• Use new axle nuts and hub bolts where specified, clean mating faces, and torque fasteners to the service manual spec. Don’t use a rattle gun on the axle nut as it can damage a new bearing.
• After fitting, road-test for noise, clear any ABS codes, and recheck torque after a short drive. If a hub failed severely, consider a wheel alignment.

For owners who tow occasionally or tackle rough roads, periodic checks become even more important. Catching a noisy hub early saves tyres, protects brake components and keeps the Lancer tracking straight and true.

How can someone tell if a 2009 Lancer wheel hub is failing?

Common signs include a humming or growling noise that changes with road speed, a rumble when turning, ABS or stability control lights, or measurable play when rocking the wheel by hand. After a drive, a failing hub may also feel noticeably hotter than the opposite side.

Do the Lancer’s wheel hubs include the ABS sensor?

The hubs typically include an encoder ring. The wheel speed sensor is separate and reads that ring. It’s important to match the correct hub/encoder type to the vehicle’s ABS system—using the wrong one can cause ABS faults or erratic readings.

Should both front hubs be replaced at the same time?

It’s not mandatory, but practical if the other side is close to end-of-life. If one is noisy and the other has high kilometres with light rumble, replacing both can save labour and ensure balanced noise and performance.