[Seattle Al]

My wife's 2004 Alero (~88k miles) has already gone through one set of front wheel hub assemblies, and is ready for another. The first time I paid a hefty chunk of change for the dealer to fix the prob, but after finding out how easy the procedure is to replace them I'm planning on doing it myself this time. In looking at auto part stores there is the option to buy assemblies both with and without sensor rings. It appears that the sensor ring is loose from the hub assembly itself, but it doesn't look like you can buy the sensor ring separately so am confused as to whether or not the sensor ring is integral to the hub assembly. If they are separate my assumption is i only have to replace the wheel assembly if none of the warning lights are on. Are there any optional/upgradable hub assemblies for this silly car?

The other issue pertains to the front brakes. It chews through front brakes like they're candy. The problem i'm seeing is extremely uneven pad wear. The pad closest to the piston will be shot while the outside pad will look brand new. Any suggestions or is this common?