Parts for your 2017 Nissan Navara-Wheel hubs

Understanding the Wheel Hubs on Your 2017 Nissan Navara

The 2017 Nissan Navara is a robust and reliable ute that many Aussies rely on for everything from tough work sites to weekend adventures. One key component that plays a crucial role in the performance and safety of this vehicle is the wheel hub. Wheel hubs might not be something everyone thinks about regularly, but they are essential parts that keep the wheels spinning smoothly and securely attached to the vehicle.

So, what exactly are wheel hubs, and why are they important for the 2017 Nissan Navara? Simply put, the wheel hub is the mounting assembly for the wheel and tyre. It houses the wheel bearings, which allow the wheels to rotate freely with minimal friction, and it also serves as the mounting point where the brake rotors and wheels attach. On the Navara, the hubs are designed to handle the heavy-duty work that the vehicle often encounters, providing strength and durability.

One of the main functions of the wheel hub is to support the weight of the vehicle and absorb the forces generated by acceleration, braking, and cornering. Since the 2017 Nissan Navara is often used in demanding conditions such as off-road driving or towing heavy loads, having high-quality, well-maintained wheel hubs is critical to keeping the vehicle safe and reliable. Worn or damaged hubs can lead to several problems, including vibrations, uneven tyre wear, and even wheel detachment - which is something nobody wants to happen.

Maintenance and replacement of wheel hubs on the Navara should not be overlooked. Over time and with extensive usage, the wheel bearings inside the hub assembly can wear out or become contaminated with dirt and water, leading to failure. Usually, symptoms of failing wheel hubs include a rumbling or grinding noise from the wheels, especially when turning, wobbling or play in the wheel, and sometimes ABS warning lights because many modern wheel hubs incorporate the ABS sensor mechanism.

When servicing the 2017 Nissan Navara, regular inspection of the wheel hubs is a smart move. Mechanics typically check for any signs of excessive play in the wheel bearings or damage to the hub assembly itself. Lubrication, although the wheel bearings inside most modern hubs are sealed-for-life, still plays a role when it comes to older vehicles or certain types of hubs. Nissan's design for the 2017 Navara generally uses sealed wheel hub units, meaning the bearing and hub are replaced as a single assembly if any faults occur.

Replacing the wheel hubs on a Navara isn't super complicated but does require the right tools and know-how. The process involves lifting the vehicle safely, removing the wheel and brake components, then detaching the hub assembly from the knuckle. Since the hub also contains the ABS sensor ring, care must be taken not to damage this part during removal or replacement. It's recommended to replace wheel hubs as a pair on the same axle to ensure even performance and avoid uneven wear.

Taking good care of the wheel hubs means smoother rides, safer handling, and prolonging the life of your tyres and braking system. Regular checks during tyre rotations or brake servicing appointments are the perfect time to ensure the hubs are in tip-top shape. For anyone who does a lot of off-roading or drives mainly on rough terrain, getting the hubs inspected more often can prevent costly breakdowns later on.

The 2017 Nissan Navara is built tough, but the wheel hubs are one of those small yet vital parts that help it stay tough and dependable. Whether cruising on highways or battling through muddy tracks, keeping an eye on your wheel hubs will help keep everything rolling without a hitch.

• Wheel hubs house wheel bearings that allow wheels to spin smoothly
• They support vehicle weight and handle forces from acceleration and braking
• Navara's wheel hubs often include ABS sensor rings
• Signs of wear include noise, vibration, and wheel play
• Sealed hubs usually require full assembly replacement, not just bearings
• Regular inspection during servicing or tyre rotation is essential
• Replacement requires proper tools and care to avoid sensor damage
• Recommended to replace hubs in pairs on the same axle
• More frequent checks are advised for off-road or heavy-use Navaras

So, keeping an eye on the wheel hubs is a small investment in time and money that pays off big by ensuring your Navara stays safe and performs well for years to come.