Snapshot
The wheel bearing and hub assembly on a Ford Edge keeps the wheel bolted on, lets it spin with very little friction, and holds the anti-lock brake (ABS) tone ring that feeds data to the computer. When this sealed Òwheel hubÓ (also called a hub unit, wheel-end bearing, or hub kit) goes bad, it can roar like a jet, make the steering shake, or even let the wheel loosen.
How It Works
A wheel hub assembly sits between the brake rotor and the drive axle or spindle, locking to the wheel studs so the tire stays attached to the car. Inside are steel balls or rollers packed in grease, sealed for life to keep out water and grit, and guided by precision races that cut friction during every turn wheel hub assembly .
When the Edge rolls, the hub's inner race spins with the axle while the outer race stays fixed to the knuckle, allowing smooth rotation and supporting the vehicle's weight .
Common Symptoms
Why It Fails
Maintenance Tips
Replacement Guide
On all 2007-2024 Edges, the bearing comes as a bolt-in hub unit, so no press is needed. A tech removes the wheel, caliper, and rotor, unbolts the hub from the knuckle, cleans the mating face, then torques the new unit to spec .
DIYers should have a torque wrench that reads to at least 250 ft-lb and a new axle-nut cotter pin or stake-nut as required. If the ABS harness routes through the fender liner, clip it to factory points to prevent rub-through.
Torque & Specs
SKF lists center axle-nut torque at 242 ft-lb (328 Nám) for many Ford front hubs and stresses that correct preload is critical to hub life . Always verify the exact figure for the Edge year and engine in the factory service manual.
Lug-nut torque for 18- and 20-inch wheels is typically 100 ft-lb (135 Nám); over-tightening can warp rotors and crush the hub flange .
Model-Year Notes
Safety & Recalls
Cost & Value
The average price to replace one Ford Edge wheel bearing and hub runs $228 - $363 total, with $164 - $241 for labor and $64 - $122 for the part RepairPal estimator . Across all vehicles, Kelley Blue Book pegs the nationwide mean at roughly $350 (Kbb.com).
Early repair catches can save money by preventing rotor or CV-joint damage; continued driving may double the bill.
DIY or Pro?
Real-World Complaints
CarComplaints lists numerous hub-related issues: loud rear roar at 49 850 mi on 2007 Edge (CarComplaints.com), repeated rear bearing failures on 2008 models (m.carcomplaints.com), and 2010 owners noting front bearings gone by 40 600 mi (m.carcomplaints.com). Many reports say both hubs were replaced more than once under warranty.
Key Q&A
Q: What exactly is a wheel bearing and hub assembly?
A: It's a sealed unit that holds the wheel studs, houses the bearing, and bolts to the steering knuckle so the wheel can spin smoothly while staying firmly attached (Wikipedia).
Q: How long should the Ford Edge hub last?
A: In theory a sealed hub can exceed 100 000 miles, but Edge owners often see rear-hub noise as early as 50 000 miles on first-generation models (Haynes Manuals).
Q: What noises point to a bad wheel hub?
A: A constant howl, rumble, or grinding that changes pitch with speed but not engine RPM is typical (RepairPal.com).
Q: Is it safe to keep driving?
A: Only briefly. Continued use can overheat the hub, damage the brake rotor, or let the wheel separate .
Q: Does one bad hub mean all four need changing?
A: No, but driving with a failed unit can stress the opposite side, so techs often replace hubs in pairs for balanced wear (Kbb.com).
Q: Why does proper torque matter?
A: Too little torque lets the bearing run loose; too much crushes the races. SKF warns both conditions slash service life .
Q: Are aftermarket hubs recalled?
A: Yes. NHTSA 17E-053 recalled certain 2007-10 Edge front spindles sold under the Duralast brand for oversized stud shoulders .
Q: Will a faulty hub set off the ABS light?
A: Often, because the hub's built-in tone ring can wobble, making the sensor read erratically .
Q: How much will a shop charge?
A: Expect roughly $228 - $363 per corner, depending on model year, labor rate, and local taxes (RepairPal.com).
Q: Can I swap the hub at home with hand tools?
A: Yes for most Edges, since the hub bolts in. You'll need sturdy jacks, a 36 mm axle socket (check size), and a ½-inch torque wrench capable of 250 ft-lb .
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