Buy Buick Lucerne Wheel Bearing and Hub Assemblys

The wheel bearing and hub assembly on a Buick Lucerne (model years 2006-2011) lets each wheel spin smoothly while holding it firmly to the car's suspension. When this sealed "hub unit" wears out, it can cause noise, looseness, and even make the wheel fall off if ignored. The information below covers how the part works, warning signs, torque data, maintenance, and answers to common questions, with helpful links to trusted sources.

A wheel hub assembly is a pre-greased unit that bolts to the steering knuckle and carries the wheel studs. Inside, precision ball or roller bearings cut friction so the wheel turns freely Wheel hub assembly .
It sits between the brake rotor and the drive axle; splines in the center transfer engine power on front hubs while rear hubs simply roll .
Because the bearing is sealed, you cannot re-grease it; once play or roughness begins, the whole hub must be replaced.

A healthy hub keeps the wheel straight, supports vehicle weight, and allows accurate ABS wheel-speed readings that help with braking and stability control Wheel bearing basics .
If the bearing loosens, the brake rotor can tilt and reduce braking power, and an extreme failure can let the wheel detach.

Common clues on a Buick Lucerne include:

• Growling or humming that gets louder with speed Forum noise discussion
• Steering wheel vibration or wandering
• ABS light from erratic speed-sensor signals in the hub
• Uneven tire wear or warm wheel after a drive
  Ignoring these symptoms risks wheel lock-up or loss.

Typical causes are water intrusion, pothole impacts, improper lug-nut torque, and high mileage. Bearings on many GM full-size sedans last about 85,000-100,000 mi on average MOOG lifespan study , though harsh roads can shorten life.

1. Drive in a quiet area and weave gently; if the noise changes when weight shifts, the outer wheel bearing is likely bad Noise demo video (YouTube).
2. Jack up the wheel, grab it at 12 and 6 o'clock, and rock it. Play means bearing wear.
3. Spin the wheel by hand; a rough, gritty feel confirms failure.

• The Lucerne hub is bolted from the back of the steering knuckle.
• Remove the brake caliper and rotor, then unplug the ABS wire.
• On front-wheel-drive models, take off the axle nut and push the half-shaft back slightly.
• Unbolt the hub (three bolts) and tap it free.
• Clean the knuckle face, then install the new hub and ABS lead exactly as routed from the factory DIY video guide .

Using a calibrated torque wrench is vital:

• Hub-to-knuckle bolts: 74 ft-lb plus 60-70° on many GM W/H-platform cars Buick forum spec , though some sources list about 133 ft-lb straight torque GM-Trucks thread . Always confirm per VIN-specific service data.
• Axle nut: 188 ft-lb (front) to seat the CV spline .
• Lug-nut torque: 100 ft-lb to prevent rotor warp and bearing overload SKF torque guide .

Keep tires properly balanced and inflated, avoid deep puddles, and torque wheels with a torque wrench-not an impact gun-to lengthen bearing life . During brake service, inspect hubs for rust and sensor damage.

The Lucerne used the GM G-platform and shares hub designs with Cadillac DTS of the same era Platform list .
Front and rear hubs differ; V8 models (Northstar engine) use the same style hub but with heavier-duty studs Northstar summary . Always match part number by year, engine, and ABS option.

• Parts range from moderate to high depending on brand and whether the sensor is included.
• Labor runs 1-1.5 hours per side for front hubs at most shops. DIYers with basic tools can finish a side in an afternoon.

Recyclers accept old hubs as scrap steel. Place the part in metal recycling; used grease and any damaged sensors should go to a hazardous-waste center.

When replacing a hub, many techs also inspect:

• Brake rotors and pads for uneven wear
• Lower ball joints and tie-rod ends, since they can mimic bearing noise Owner question thread
• CV axle splines for corrosion
• ABS wiring for chafe

Q: What years of Buick Lucerne use this hub?
A: All model years 2006-2011, including V6 and V8 trims Buick Lucerne overview .

Q: How loud is a bad bearing?
A: It starts as a faint roar at 25 mph and can grow into a jet-engine-like howl at highway speeds (Buick Forums).

Q: Can I just add grease?
A: No. The hub is sealed at the factory. Once contaminated or worn, replacement is the only fix (Wikipedia).

Q: Will a failing hub trigger the ABS light?
A: Yes. The built-in speed sensor can read erratically as the bearing loosens.

Q: Are there recalls for Lucerne wheel bearings?
A: No direct wheel-bearing recall exists, but several service bulletins note howling or ABS faults; check the TSB database for your VIN 2006 Lucerne TSB list .

Q: Is the left or right side more likely to fail first?
A: The side that hits more potholes (often the passenger side in right-hand-traffic countries) usually wears out first.

Q: What tools do I need?
A: Jack stands, torque wrench, 34 mm axle-nut socket, 13 mm or 15 mm hub-bolt socket, breaker bar, and a wire brush.

Q: Do I need an alignment afterward?
A: Normally no, but if you had to loosen control-arm bolts or the knuckle, an alignment check is smart.

Q: Can driving on a bad hub damage other parts?
A: Yes, it can ruin the CV axle, brake rotor, and ABS sensor, and may cause tire wear.

Q: How can I extend bearing life?
A: Avoid curbs and potholes, torque wheels to 100 ft-lb, and replace worn suspension parts quickly.

Q: Why does the torque spec vary in forums?
A: GM updated specs across platforms; always use the specification in the factory service manual for your VIN (Buick Forums, GM-Trucks.com).

Q: Is this part called anything else?
A: Yes-"wheel hub bearing," "hub unit," or simply "wheel hub." All refer to the same sealed assembly.

Q: Can I drive far with a noisy bearing?
A: It may last weeks or fail tomorrow. Replacement at the first sign of noise is safest.

Q: Does temperature affect hubs?
A: Extreme heat can thin the grease, and road salt can corrode seals, both shortening life.

Q: Are aftermarket hubs as good as factory ones?
A: Quality differs by brand; look for units that meet OE material and sensor specs and carry a solid warranty.

With these facts, you can confidently select, install, and care for a Buick Lucerne wheel bearing and hub assembly, keeping the ride smooth and safe for years to come.