Parts for your 2009 Subaru Forester-Wheel hubs

2009 Subaru Forester wheel hubs

Wheel hubs are absolutely used on the 2009 Subaru Forester (SH). The Subaru Factory Service Manual (FSM) for the 2009 Forester and the Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue both list front and rear hub components. These sources show the rear as a bolt-on hub unit with an integrated bearing and ABS encoder, and the front as a separate hub working with a press-in, double-row bearing housed in the steering knuckle.

On a 2009 Forester, the wheel hub is the solid centre that the wheel bolts to via the studs, and it’s what the driveshaft (on AWD) splines into so the wheel actually turns. It supports the wheel bearing, keeps everything running true, and provides the encoder surface for the ABS. When it’s healthy, it gives smooth, quiet rotation and predictable handling, when it’s worn, it can cause a droning noise, vibration, ABS faults and uneven tyre wear.

Servicing-wise, there’s no fixed replacement interval for hubs or bearings, but they benefit from regular checks, especially if the car sees long kilometres, towing, corrugations or coastal conditions. At each service, it’s smart to:

• Spin and listen for growls or roughness, and feel for play at the wheel (12 and 6 o’clock check).
• Inspect ABS wiring and sensor mounting, and look for rust staining or heat discolouration around the hub.
• Check wheel studs and nuts for damage and proper seating.

Replacement differs front to rear on the SH Forester. The rear typically uses a bolt-on hub and bearing assembly, so the unit is swapped out as a whole. Up front, the hub is reused with a new press-in bearing in the knuckle, so a proper press and drifts are needed to avoid loading the bearing incorrectly. Many owners opt to have a workshop press the bearing to prevent damage. Always fit a new axle nut, torque all fasteners to the FSM specs, and keep the ABS encoder/sensor area spotless. A wheel alignment usually isn’t required unless the strut-to-knuckle bolts are disturbed, but it’s good practice to check tyre wear afterwards.

Left unchecked, a noisy hub or bearing can overheat and damage the hub, axle stub or ABS components. Catching it early saves money and keeps the Forester tracking straight and quiet on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions about 2009 Subaru Forester wheel hubs

Does the 2009 Forester have bolt-in hubs or press-in bearings?
Most 2009 Forester SH models have a bolt-in hub unit at the rear and a press-in bearing at the front with a separate hub. The front bearing is pressed into the steering knuckle and the hub is installed through it. If in doubt, confirm by VIN against the Subaru parts catalogue or FSM.

How long do the wheel hubs/bearings last?
It varies with use, but many last 120,000–200,000 km. Coastal exposure, water crossings, big tyres or lifts, and rough roads can shorten life. Listen for a speed-related hum that changes when cornering, and check for play at every service to catch issues early.

Is it safe to drive with a noisy wheel bearing?
Not really. A failing bearing can heat up, affect ABS readings, and in bad cases damage the hub or seize. It’s best to book it in promptly, replacing a worn bearing or hub sooner usually prevents a bigger, pricier repair.