Chevrolet Cruze Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly Replacement Guide (2010-2019)
Hearing a humming or grinding noise from your wheels? Your Cruze's wheel bearing may need replacement.
- A humming or roaring noise that changes with speed is the #1 symptom of a bad wheel bearing on a Cruze.
- There are no major recalls for wheel bearings; they are a normal wear item.
- Choose premium aftermarket brands like SKF, Timken, or Moog for better longevity than budget options.
- Verify the part fits your specific year, as Gen 1 (2010-16) and Gen 2 (2016-19) use different hubs.
Is Your Chevrolet Cruze Making a Roaring or Humming Noise?
If you're hearing a constant humming, roaring, or grinding sound that gets louder as you drive faster, a bad wheel bearing is the most likely cause. This is a common issue on all vehicles as they age, including the 2010-2019 Chevrolet Cruze. The noise might change or go away when you turn the steering wheel. For example, if you turn right and the noise gets louder, the problem is likely on the left side, as more weight is put on the left wheels. Ignoring this can lead to more serious problems, so it's important to diagnose and fix it.
🎬 Watch this pro mechanic diagnose a noisy Cruze wheel bearing.Symptoms of a Failing Wheel Bearing on a Cruze
A bad wheel bearing doesn't just make noise. Look out for these other signs:
- Vibration: You might feel a vibration in the steering wheel or the floor of the car that gets worse with speed.
- Loose Steering: The steering may feel less responsive or 'sloppy'.
- ABS Light: Since the hub assembly contains the ABS sensor, a failure can trigger the ABS or traction control warning light on your dashboard.
- Pulling to One Side: A worn bearing can cause the vehicle to pull to the left or right.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A wobbly wheel caused by a bad bearing can lead to tires wearing out unevenly.
Can I still drive with a bad wheel bearing?
It is not recommended. While you can drive for a short time, a failing bearing will only get worse. The noise will become louder, and in a worst-case scenario, the wheel could seize up or even separate from the vehicle, leading to a complete loss of control.
Known Issues, Recalls, or TSBs
Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no specific recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) for wheel bearing failure on the 2010-2019 Chevrolet Cruze. This indicates that General Motors considers wheel bearing failure a standard wear-and-tear issue rather than a widespread manufacturing defect. However, there were recalls for related parts on certain model years, such as a front right half-shaft that could fracture on 2013-2014 models, which could be mistaken for a bearing issue.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hub Assembly
The quality of aftermarket wheel bearings can vary greatly. A cheap, poorly made bearing might fail quickly, causing you to do the job all over again. It's best to choose a brand with a good reputation. Here’s how the available brands generally stack up:
- Premium Brands (SKF, Timken, FAG): These are top-tier brands known for making high-quality bearings that often meet or exceed OEM standards. They are trusted by professional mechanics and are an excellent choice for longevity and performance.
- OEM-Quality Brands (Moog, ACDelco): Moog is a well-respected aftermarket brand with a strong reputation for steering and suspension parts. ACDelco is the original GM parts brand, so their 'Genuine GM' line is a guaranteed fit and quality part. Both are solid, reliable choices.
- Economy Brands (Dorman, Centric, WJB, and others): These brands offer a much lower price point. While some of their parts may work fine, quality can be inconsistent. They may be a suitable option for a short-term fix or if budget is the primary concern, but be aware of shorter warranties and a higher potential for premature failure.
Pro Tip: Check for Generational Differences
The Chevrolet Cruze has two generations in this year range: Gen 1 (2010-2016) and Gen 2 (2016-2019). The front wheel hub assemblies are different between these generations. Always confirm the part fits your exact year and model before ordering.
🎬 See this step-by-step replacement guide for first-generation Cruze models.Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost to replace a wheel bearing hub assembly depends on the part quality and shop labor rates. The part itself is a bolt-on assembly, which makes labor more straightforward than older press-in bearings.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Hub Assembly | $77 - $238 |
| New OEM (ACDelco) Hub Assembly | $130 - $260 |
| Shop Labor | $140 - $250 per wheel |
| Total Professional Replacement (Aftermarket) | $220 - $490 per wheel |
| Total Professional Replacement (OEM) | $270 - $510 per wheel |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace wheel bearings in pairs?
It is not required, but it is often recommended. Wheel bearings on the same axle experience the same wear and tear. If one has failed, the other may not be far behind. Replacing them in pairs can save you from having to do the same repair on the other side in the near future.
Is a special tool needed for a Chevy Cruze wheel bearing?
The Cruze uses a bolt-on hub assembly, so you do not need a hydraulic press. However, you will need a large 32mm socket for the axle nut, a torque wrench, and standard metric sockets (like 18mm for the hub bolts). The replacement is considered feasible for a DIY mechanic with the right tools.
🎬 Watch a complete hub assembly replacement on a 2016-2019 Cruze.Will a new wheel bearing fix my ABS light?
If the ABS light is on due to a faulty wheel speed sensor, then yes, replacing the hub assembly (which includes a new sensor) should turn the light off. The code should be read first to confirm the fault is with the sensor.
What are the torque specs for the front axle nut?
According to a replacement video, the front axle nut should be torqued to 111 ft-lbs, then loosened 45 degrees, and finally re-torqued. Always refer to a vehicle-specific service manual for the most accurate specifications.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 13531686 13517459 13591999 13526966
The Chevrolet Cruze uses a sealed wheel bearing and hub assembly. It is a bolt-on unit with an integrated ABS sensor. The front hubs for the first generation (2010-2016) are held on by three bolts and have a 32mm axle nut. The second generation (2016-2019) uses a different part number. Always verify fitment by vehicle year.
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.
- Chevrolet Cruze:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Chevrolet Cruze Making a Roaring or Humming Noise?
- Symptoms of a Failing Wheel Bearing on a Cruze
- Can I still drive with a bad wheel bearing?
- Known Issues, Recalls, or TSBs
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hub Assembly
- Pro Tip: Check for Generational Differences
- Estimated Replacement Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off