Wheel Hub & ABS question???

Both ABS & trac off lights are on. I had it in the dealer the other day to replace the igniton switch because the key would not come out. I had them run a scan, and the left rear ABS sensor is at fault. I know I have to replace the hub assembly. Question is; Dealer wants $500 for this repair.... NOT... Where and what brand should I use for the wheel bearing. I've heard horror stories about Autozone and Advance. How about NAPA, or Carquest??? Or should I stick with AC Delco?
Also, the front has started some "noise" and a slight vibration at certain speeds. I had the tires rebalanced first, but it's still there. Could it be possible that the front bearings are on their way out to? Car has 105,000 miles on her.

It is highly possible that more than one hub is going, as the hubs are one of the only weak spots on our cars. The rear hub isn't that difficult, and is well within the abilities of a DIY'er

It is highly possible that more than one hub is going, as the hubs are one of the only weak spots on our cars. The rear hub isn't that difficult, and is well within the abilities of a DIY'er

Rich, what brand do you recommend for hub assembly. I had a bad experience with Autozone's hubs....Carcraft or something Craft? :dunno:

Personally, I prefer the OEM GM/AC Delco, of course, depending on the cost.




http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/gtp.jpg
Thrasher CAI, DHP v1.0 PCM, SLP Headers,
3.25 SC pulley, CAIT GMAF, 2.5 DP/Hi-Flow CAT,
u-bend delete, 160 TS, ZZP Stage 1 72mm TB,
TB spacer, MSD 8.5mm wires, Autolite 103,
Goodyear Gatorback Serp. & SC Belt,
Nitto NT555R Drag Radials
1/4 ET: 13.210 sec. @ 104.490 mph
0 - 60 ft: 1.945 sec.

Are you sure the entire hub needs to be replaced?

I believe in most instances it's a wiring issue and the sensor will short out and cause the lights to turn on. Check your wiring before you start replacing parts.

aftermarket wise, I think BCA or PTC are the best. Whenever you're talking hubs with ABS sensors, always buy name brand/North American made hubs. Delco hubs are made by PTC and/or BCA, so you're getting the same thing, and they are cheaper. Just don't buy the China or "white box" of any brand name, as in my opinion, they are all junk.

Are you sure the entire hub needs to be replaced?

I believe in most instances it's a wiring issue and the sensor will short out and cause the lights to turn on. Check your wiring before you start replacing parts.


Lifted up the grand prix this afternoon to check it further. Wiring is intact to the rear sensor. Unpluged and cleaned, still ABS light is on.

On the front, I raised the wheels off the ground, and checked for play in the bearing. At the 3 & 9 oclock position it has some play. At the 6 & 12 position less play, but some. The drivers side has more play than the passenger side. No play at all on the rear wheels. Just have the ABS and trac lite on.

AutoZone has TIMKEN for the rear. DuraCraft for the front???? $89 & $127

CarQuest has BCA for both??? $129 & $189

It is highly possible that more than one hub is going, as the hubs are one of the only weak spots on our cars. The rear hub isn't that difficult, and is well within the abilities of a DIY'er

Rich,
I'm definatally going to tackle this job myself. Rear looks like no problem. For the front, after loosening the axle nut, do I hit the nut with a hammer to unseat the shaft? And how far does the axle need to be removed to replace the hub assembly? I've already replaced all the brakes last year, just not sure about removing the axle.

And can you hook me up with some GOOD 'OL AC Delco hub assemblies!!

all you have to do is gently tap the shaft, in case it's rusted in the hub, to disengage the axle. You don't have to remove the axle from the car, just get it loose from the hub. Let me know what year your car is and I'm sure I can hook you up with some delco hubs.

The Delco hub number for 97-00 Grand Prix's is a 20-17, and would run you $151.00 plus shipping. For 01-03's, you need to check the clip for the harness, if it's steel, it's also a 20-17. If the clip is plastic, it's an FW128 and runs $165 plus shipping. Send me a private message with your zip code and I can get you a quote for the shipping.

Well I finally got some extra time and installed my rear wheel hub assembly. It fixed my problem with the ABS light being on.
So now I figure replacing the 2 front wheel hubs will solve my front end vibration problems. I got them replaced, and the car still has a vibration at 50 mph. Move the steering wheel a fraction in either direction, vibration goes away. Go faster than 55mph, no vibration. I've had the tires rotated and rebalanced. Any suggestions???