Parts for your 2017 Volvo Xc60-Wheel hubs

2017 Volvo XC60 wheel hubs — purpose, care, and when to replace

Based on Volvo VIDA (the official workshop information for Volvo) and the Volvo Genuine Parts catalogue for the 2017 XC60 (P3 platform), this model is fitted with unitised wheel hub and bearing assemblies at all four corners. These assemblies carry the vehicle’s weight, allow the wheels to spin smoothly, and provide the mounting face and studs for the wheels. They also interact with the ABS/traction systems via a magnetic encoder and wheel speed sensor, so a healthy hub isn’t just about smooth rolling — it’s about safety and stability electronics behaving as they should.

On a 2017 XC60, the hub and bearing are a sealed unit, so there’s no greasing or internal servicing. The practical upside is durability and low fuss, the trade-off is that once a bearing wears, the whole hub assembly is replaced. For most Aussie and Kiwi driving — think long motorway kilometres, city commutes, and the odd corrugated back road — a quality hub can last well into six figures of kilometres. Rough roads, water crossings, wheel impacts, or incorrect wheel nut torque can shorten that lifespan.

During routine servicing, a quick check goes a long way. A technician will spin the wheel, feel for roughness, and listen for a low droning or humming that changes with speed. They’ll also check for play by rocking the wheel at 12 and 6 o’clock and inspect for ABS faults that can be caused by a damaged encoder or contamination at the sensor.

• Common signs it’s time for a hub: speed-related humming, ABS or traction warning lights, heat at the hub after a drive, uneven tyre wear, or noticeable play.
• Good habits: avoid kerb strikes, torque wheel nuts correctly (no rattle-gun hammering), keep wheel mounting faces clean, and address brake or tyre issues promptly.

Replacement on the XC60 involves removing the brake caliper and rotor, disconnecting the wheel speed sensor, and unbolting the hub from the knuckle (and the axle nut on driven hubs). The face where the hub seats needs to be spotless before the new unit goes in, and new fasteners are typically recommended. An alignment check isn’t usually required unless suspension bolts were loosened or the knuckle disturbed. Always match the correct hub to the vehicle’s spec (FWD/AWD, front/rear) and opt for OEM-quality parts to keep noise, longevity, and ABS performance up to scratch.

Popular questions

How can someone tell if their 2017 XC60 hub is failing?
They’ll usually hear a steady humming or growl that rises with speed and may change when gently weaving the car left or right. There might be a faint vibration through the floor, an ABS light if the encoder signal is affected, or slight wheel play when checked on a hoist.

Is the XC60’s wheel bearing serviceable, or is it a complete hub unit?
It’s a sealed, unitised hub and bearing assembly. That means no pressing bearings in and out — when it wears, the complete hub is replaced, which actually makes the job cleaner and more predictable.

Does replacing a wheel hub require a wheel alignment?
Not usually. If only the hub is removed and refitted, the geometry doesn’t change. If suspension components are loosened or the knuckle position shifts, it’s smart to have the alignment checked.