Guide to 2008-2014 Lexus IS F Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly Replacement
Address that humming noise and restore your IS F's sharp handling by choosing the right wheel hub assembly.
- The front wheel hubs are unique to the IS F; do not use parts listed for IS250/350.
- Invest in premium brands like Timken, SKF, or FAG for the best longevity and performance.
- Symptoms include humming/grinding noises that change with speed and turning, and steering wheel vibration.
- Replacement is a bolt-on job, making it feasible for an experienced DIYer with the right tools.
Is Your IS F Making a Strange Noise?
A failing wheel bearing on a 2008-2014 Lexus IS F typically announces itself with a distinct set of symptoms. The most common is a humming, rumbling, or grinding noise coming from one of the corners of the car. This noise will usually get louder with speed and may change pitch or disappear when you turn the steering wheel. For example, a bad bearing on the driver's side might get louder when turning right, as more load is placed on it. Other signs include steering wheel vibration, a feeling of looseness in the steering, or an ABS warning light on your dashboard. In severe cases, you might feel a wobble from the wheel or a clunking sound.
A Common Ordering Mistake
The front wheel hub assemblies for the Lexus IS F are unique to this model. Many parts suppliers mistakenly list hubs from the IS250 or IS350 as compatible, but they are not. These incorrect parts are dimensionally different and will cause issues like brake rotor rubbing. Always verify that the part number is specifically for the IS F. For example, Timken's HA590428 is a known correct part for the front.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hub Assembly
When replacing a wheel hub on your IS F, you have several aftermarket options. Unlike some parts where OEM is the only way to go, high-quality aftermarket hub assemblies can offer excellent performance and value. The key is to choose a reputable brand. Toyota/Lexus does not manufacture their own bearings; they source them from established bearing companies. This means top-tier aftermarket brands are often the same quality as the original part.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium (OEM-Equivalent): Brands like Timken, SKF, and FAG are considered the gold standard in the bearing industry. They are major OEM suppliers and their products are known for high-quality materials, precision manufacturing, and longevity. If you plan to keep your IS F for a long time or drive it aggressively, investing in one of these brands is highly recommended.
- Mid-Grade (Daily Driver): Brands like Moog and Mevotech fall into this category. While Moog has a long-standing reputation, some users report that recent quality can be inconsistent. Mevotech is often compared to Moog, with some users having good experiences and others reporting premature failures. These can be a decent budget-conscious choice for a daily driven vehicle, but may not have the ultimate durability of the premium brands.
- Economy: This tier includes brands like WJB, IAP, and MPA. While the price is attractive, the long-term reliability can be a gamble. These parts may have a shorter lifespan, and you might find yourself doing the job again sooner than you'd like.
Pro Tip: The front and rear hub assemblies on the IS F are different. The front hubs are unique to the IS F, while the rear hubs are shared with a wider array of Lexus models, making them less expensive and easier to find.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Premium) | $250 - $534 per hub |
| New Aftermarket (Mid-Grade/Economy) | $76 - $200 per hub |
| New OEM | $380 - $544 per hub |
| Shop Labor | $120 - $250 per hub |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to replace the whole hub assembly?
Yes. On the Lexus IS F, the wheel bearing is part of a sealed hub assembly. It cannot be replaced separately. The entire unit must be unbolted and a new one installed.
Should I replace wheel bearings in pairs?
While not strictly necessary, it's a good practice. If one bearing has failed due to high mileage, the other one on the same axle has experienced the same amount of wear and may not be far behind. Replacing them in pairs saves you from having to do the same job on the other side in the near future.
Are there any recalls for the IS F wheel bearings?
No. There are no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Lexus or the NHTSA for premature wheel bearing failure on the 2008-2014 IS F. Failures are generally due to normal wear and tear, road impacts, or water intrusion. There was a major Takata airbag recall that included the IS F.
What is the most important part of the installation?
Using a torque wrench is critical. The four bolts holding the hub to the knuckle and the large axle nut (on the rear) must be torqued to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure safety and bearing longevity. For the front hub bolts, the spec is 51 ft-lbs. Also, be extremely careful with the ABS sensor during removal and installation to avoid a costly mistake.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 43560-53010 (Front Left) 43550-53010 (Front Right) 42410-30020 (Rear)
The 2008-2014 Lexus IS F uses a bolt-in wheel bearing and hub assembly. The front hubs are specific to the IS F model, while the rear hubs are shared with other Lexus models. The assembly includes an integrated ABS sensor ring.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Lexus IS F: