Parts for your 2018 Nissan Pathfinder-Wheel hubs

2018 Nissan Pathfinder wheel hubs — what they do and when to replace them

Wheel hubs are absolutely used on the 2018 Nissan Pathfinder. Nissan’s R52 Factory Service Manual for the 2018 model (sections FAX: Front Axle and RAX: Rear Axle) and the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue specify bolt-in wheel hub and bearing assemblies front and rear, with integrated wheel studs and ABS encoder/tone functionality. So, yes — they’re a key part of this SUV’s running gear.

On the Pathfinder, each hub assembly supports the vehicle’s weight through a sealed bearing, provides the flat mounting face for the wheel, and houses the wheel studs. On AWD models, the front and rear hubs also carry a splined interface for the driveshafts. The ABS system reads wheel speed via an encoder ring in the hub, which means a crook bearing can trigger an ABS light as well as a humming noise.

Because these are sealed units, there’s no greasing or adjustment on the service schedule. They’re replaced as a complete assembly when worn. Hard knocks from potholes, big wheels and tyres, frequent towing, beach work, or water crossings can all shorten their life.

• Common signs a hub’s on the way out: a speed-dependent hum or growl that changes when cornering, ABS/traction lights, uneven or “saw-tooth” tyre wear, heat at the hub after a drive, or detectable wheel play when checked at the 12 and 6 o’clock positions.
• Good care tips: torque wheel nuts with a torque wrench (don’t lean on the rattle gun), rotate tyres on schedule, avoid blasting the hub/ABS connector with a pressure washer, and check for play at each service.

When replacement’s needed, a quality hub assembly matched to the Pathfinder’s ABS encoder spec is the go. It’s a bolt-in job but does involve removing the brake caliper and rotor, and on driven wheels the driveshaft. New hub bolts and axle nuts are recommended