The constant rhythmic sound from the front of this 2005 Subaru Impreza 2.5 WRX, which changed with the rise and fall of the road speed, was a classic hub bearing symptom. I was quite confident that the problem on this Subaru was going to be a hub bearing.

This diagnosis was strengthened when I took the Subaru for a quick drive and could alter the intensity of the sound by steering to the left and right, shifting the weight of the vehicle from one side to the other.

The book time given for this job is one hour, and even if all goes smoothly, it can be tight to complete the job within the allotted time.

Stripping off the hub and spinning the bearing by hand confirmed that the bearing was definitely to blame. The roughness could be felt quite clearly. Replacing the bearing was a straightforward job and once all back together, I was pleased to confirm that the unwanted drone from the front hub had gone.

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