Parts for your 2017 Subaru Xv-Wheel hubs

2017 Subaru XV wheel hubs: what they do and how to look after them

Technical sources confirm the 2017 Subaru XV absolutely uses wheel-hubs. The Subaru Service Manual for the 2017 XV/Crosstrek lists “Wheel hub unit bearing” assemblies in the Front Axle and Rear Axle sections, and Subaru’s FAST parts catalogue specifies complete hub units for both ends. Major bearing manufacturers’ catalogues (e.g., SKF, NTN, Timken) also list bolt-on hub assemblies for this model. So, wheel-hubs are relevant and fitted to the 2017 Subaru XV.

On the XV, each wheel runs on a sealed hub unit that integrates the wheel bearing, mounting flange and ABS encoder. The hub’s job is to keep the wheel true and spinning smoothly while handling cornering, braking and acceleration loads from the AWD driveline. Being a sealed unit, there’s no periodic greasing—when it’s worn, it’s replaced.

Typical signs a hub/bearing is on the way out include a humming or growling that rises with speed, a rumble that changes when gently weaving, ABS/traction lights from a corrupted encoder signal, or noticeable play when the wheel is rocked at 12 and 6 o’clock. Uneven tyre wear or heat at the hub after a drive can also hint at trouble.

During regular servicing of a 2017 Subaru XV, it’s smart to:

• Road test for speed-related hums and check for play with the wheel raised.
• Inspect for rust streaks or grease leakage at the hub face and listen with a stethoscope if available.
• Scan for ABS faults and ensure sensors and tone rings are clean.

Replacement on the XV uses bolt-on hub units, front and rear. A competent tech will avoid hammering on the studs, clean the knuckle face of rust, lightly anti-seize the spigot, use a new axle nut where specified, and torque fasteners to Subaru’s specs. Don’t preload the bearing with rattle guns—use a torque wrench. After refitting, recheck wheel-nut torque after a short run and verify ABS operation. Wheel alignment usually isn’t required unless suspension components were disturbed.

Quality branded hub units typically last well past 100,000 kilometres, but life depends on road conditions, water exposure and impacts. Rotating tyres on schedule and keeping pressures set correctly reduces bearing stress and helps the hubs live a long, quiet life.

• Do 2017 Subaru XVs have wheel-hubs?
  Yes. Subaru’s 2017 XV/Crosstrek Service Manual details bolt-on “wheel hub unit bearing” assemblies front and rear, and Subaru’s parts catalogue lists complete hub units for this model. Aftermarket catalogues from major bearing brands confirm availability as well.
• How long do wheel-hubs last on a 2017 XV?
  Many see 100,000–200,000 km or more. Rough roads, water crossings, oversized tyres and hard impacts shorten life. Listen for speed-related humming and check for play at services to catch issues early.
• Is alignment needed after a hub replacement?
  Usually no, because the hub bolts to the knuckle without altering alignment angles. If ball joints, tie-rods or struts are loosened or replaced during the job, then an alignment is a good idea.