Parts for your 2020 Subaru Impreza-Wheel hubs

2020 Subaru Impreza Wheel Hubs — Purpose, Use, and Service Advice

Wheel hubs are absolutely used on the 2020 Subaru Impreza. Technical references including the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2019–2020 Impreza (Chassis/Brake and Suspension sections), the Subaru Global Parts Catalogue, and major bearing manufacturers’ application data (e.g., Timken, SKF, NTN) all specify bolt-on, sealed hub and bearing units for both front and rear. On this model, the hub assembly integrates the wheel bearing, wheel studs and an ABS encoder ring, and bolts to the steering knuckle (front) or rear housing.

On a 2020 Impreza, the hub’s job is to let the wheel spin smoothly while supporting the vehicle’s weight and keeping alignment true. The studs on the hub hold the wheel, while the integrated bearing keeps friction low and noise down. The ABS encoder ring in the hub feeds precise wheel speed signals to the stability and ABS systems, helping the car keep its footing in dodgy conditions. Being a sealed unit, it’s designed for long service with minimal fuss.

Because these hubs are sealed, they’re not serviceable in the traditional sense—there’s no repacking with grease. Instead, the focus is on periodic checks and correct installation. During routine servicing, a technician should:

• Spin and rock each wheel for roughness or play, and listen for a humming or growling that changes with road speed.
• Inspect for ABS faults that may be caused by a damaged encoder ring or contamination at the wheel speed sensor.
• Check for corrosion at the hub-to-rotor face that could cause brake pulsation or wheel wobble.

When replacement is needed, the hub assembly is unbolted and swapped—no pressing required. On the front, the axle nut is removed and re-torqued to factory spec after fitting. Using the correct torque on the axle nut and wheel nuts is vital, over- or under-torquing can shorten bearing life. It’s smart to avoid hammering the axle nut home with a rattle gun, and to keep the wheel speed sensor clean and undamaged during the job. Genuine or quality OEM-equivalent hubs tend to last longest and run quieter. Many workshops replace only the failed side, though on higher kilometres some owners choose to do both sides to keep things even. A short road test afterwards to confirm quiet running and clear ABS diagnostics is the go.

Popular questions about 2020 Subaru Impreza wheel hubs

How long do the wheel hubs typically last?
On most 2020 Imprezas, hubs commonly run well past 150,000 km, and many go further with gentle driving and correct torque on fasteners. Rough roads, oversized wheels, or frequent kerb knocks can shorten life.

What are the tell-tale signs a hub is failing?
A steady humming or growling that gets louder with speed, slight steering wheel vibration, play when rocking the wheel at 12 and 6 o’clock, or an ABS light accompanied by a wheel-speed sensor code can point to a worn hub.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing a hub?
Usually, no—replacing the hub doesn’t alter alignment settings. If suspension bolts are loosened during the job, or if there’s uneven tyre wear, an alignment check is a good idea.