How to Replace Wheel Hub & Bearing Assembly 03-09 Toyota 4Runner

Difficulty: Intermediate · About 110 min · Toyota 4runner

Replace a front wheel hub and bearing assembly on a 2003–2009 Toyota 4Runner, freeing the brake and axle hardware, installing the hub with a new locking retainer if required, and checking brake operation.

Steps

1. Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel

   Loosen the wheel nuts while the vehicle is on the ground, then raise and support the front securely on stands. Remove the wheel and keep the fasteners organized.

2. Remove the brake components

   Release the hose retainer and caliper hardware. Support the caliper without loading the flexible hose, remove the pads and rotor, and clean the hub area without contaminating the brake surfaces.

3. Remove the axle nut and hub

   Remove the hub cover, straighten and remove the cotter pin, then remove the axle nut and retainer. Press the axle inward carefully, remove the hub mounting bolts, and work the assembly out of the knuckle without damaging the backing plate or ABS wiring.

4. Install the replacement hub

   Clean rust and debris from the knuckle mounting face and align the backing plate. Fit the new hub assembly squarely, tighten its mounting bolts to the vehicle specification, and install the axle nut and locking retainer with a new cotter pin if required.

5. Reinstall the brakes

   Refit the rotor and caliper, applying brake lubricant only to specified metal contact points. Secure the caliper and hose retainer to specification, then reinstall the pads and their pins and spring in the original arrangement.

6. Refit the wheel and verify

   Install the wheel and torque its nuts in a star pattern to specification. Pump the brake pedal until firm, inspect the ABS harness and brake hose routing, and test the vehicle cautiously at low speed.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.