Parts for your 2022 Subaru Impreza-Wheel bearings

2022 Subaru Impreza Wheel Bearings: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Per Subaru factory service literature for the 2017–2023 Impreza platform and the OEM parts catalogue, the 2022 Subaru Impreza is fitted with sealed, unitised hub-and-bearing assemblies at all four corners. So wheel bearings are absolutely relevant on this model.

On the 2022 Impreza, each wheel runs on a compact, sealed hub bearing that supports the vehicle’s weight and lets the wheel spin smoothly with minimal friction. Being sealed-for-life, these bearings don’t need greasing and aren’t adjustable, when worn, they’re replaced as a complete hub unit. That design helps keep water and road grit out—great for Aussie and Kiwi conditions—while integrating the ABS tone ring for precise stability control.

There’s no fixed service interval for wheel bearings, so they’re replaced on condition. During routine servicing, a good workshop will road test for a humming or droning that rises with speed, check for play with the wheel lifted (12-and-6 o’clock wobble), and listen for a growl that changes when gently swerving left or right. They’ll also look for metallic swarf on magnetic ABS sensors, heat discolouration at the hub, or uneven tyre wear that can hint at a tired bearing.

If a bearing is failing, it’s best not to wait. A noisy or loose hub can affect braking, steering feel, and tyre life, and in extreme cases can damage the knuckle. Because the Impreza uses bolt-in hub units, most replacements don’t require pressing, the hub is unbolted from the back of the knuckle and swapped out. An alignment usually isn’t needed if the strut and camber bolts aren’t disturbed, but it’s smart to request a quick check if the knuckle was moved.

• Common signs it’s time: speed-related hum, rumble in corners, ABS light, noticeable wheel play, or a hot hub after a short drive.
• Best practices: replace with quality OEM-spec units, use a new axle nut and torque/stake it to spec, clean mating faces, and protect ABS sensors from damage.
• Prevention tips: keep tyres balanced and correctly inflated, avoid hard kerb strikes, and pressure-wash away from hub seals.

Most drivers will see well over 100,000 km from factory bearings, but life varies with road quality, loads, and wheel/tyre choices. When in doubt, a quick inspection during your next service can save bigger headaches down the track.

Popular questions about 2022 Subaru Impreza wheel bearings

Do 2022 Impreza wheel bearings need regular maintenance?
They’re sealed hub units, so there’s no greasing or adjustment. Just have them checked at service time for noise or play. Replace the whole hub assembly if they’re worn.

How can a driver tell a bearing is going bad?
Listen for a humming or growling that gets louder with speed, a change in noise when gently steering left or right, or feel for vibration through the seat. A failing hub can also trigger an ABS light if debris builds on the sensor.

Do both sides need replacing together?
Not necessarily. It’s fine to replace only the noisy side. Some owners choose to do pairs on the same axle for peace of mind, but it’s not mandatory if the other side tests OK.