Problems with a wheel hub can be difficult to detect until they cause more significant damage to the other auto parts in the vehicle. While it’s not impossible to detect the problem sooner, you’ll have to pay close attention to how your vehicle operates. Below are a few tips that can help you identify a wheel hub problem.

4 Signs of a Wheel Hub Issue 

1. Popping, Snapping, or Clicking 

Hearing popping, snapping, or clicking noises as you’re making a sharp turn or rounding a corner could indicate a couple of different problems. The outer CV joint may be damaged or worn, or poor clamping may be affecting the wheel hub’s ball bearings.

2. Grinding 

If you feel grinding as you drive, there’s likely mechanical damage. To fix this, a mechanic will have to replace the auto parts in the wheel-end system. If the grinding can be attributed to the bearings, this may indicate raceway or roller damage.

3. Knocking or Clunking  

If there is too much play in the U-joints or the CV joints, this can cause knocking sounds. Alternatively, too much backlash from the differential gears may cause the knocking. While these repairs can be costly, installing quality used car parts can lighten the expense of repairing the problem.

4. Wobbling or Vibrating Wheel 

There are multiple reasons why you may experience a vibrating steering wheel, and each represents a serious risk to your vehicle. While you don’t want to replace auto parts needlessly, letting this problem go for too long poses a safety risk. An obvious cause may be a worn tire, but the wobbling steering wheel may also be the result of other damaged car parts, such as a suspension component, a clamp, or a bearing. It may also indicate a misaligned chassis. 

Northwest Auto Parts in Anchorage, AK, provides quality used auto parts, and they will buy junk vehicles that you may no longer want. Their inventory of salvaged vehicles allows them to gather quality parts and offer them at half the price of new parts. To find out more about their services, including their shipping options, visit their website. You can also call them at (800) 770-6531 to speak to a friendly representative.