All about the Hub

Support of the Wheel

When transmitting power from the engine to the wheel, the wheel hub is the most important connecting piece besides the drive shaft. As part of the drivetrain, the wheel hub transfers the power of the engine from the drive shaft to the wheel. To withstand the continuous load, hubs are usually made of steel. However, aluminum is often used to reduce the weight of the vehicle. It must therefore be well maintained to prevent damage to the wheel. On this page, you will learn what you need to consider in the care and maintenance of your wheel hub.

The Function of the Hub

Modern hubs perform many functions. With the mere holding of the wheel, it is no longer done. Nowadays, a step indicator disc and an associated sensor are also installed. This allows the car to better measure the revolutions of the wheel per minute and thus make more accurate statements regarding speed. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) also uses the hub to prevent the wheel from locking in case an emergency. In addition, a hub cap can also round off the look of a car if, for example, the hub cap has the same logo as the car manufacturer. If the rims have the same color as the paint, this can also bring matching details to the car. You can also deliberately choose a harmonious color combination, for example, red rim caps on a black painted car. 

Besides the fit of the wheels, they are also attached to the hub with screws. Here it is crucial not to tighten the screws too loosely, but not too tightly either. If they are too loose, there is a risk of further loosening after a while. If they are too tight, sooner or later this can lead to deformation of the hub. It is best to check the tightness of the bolts with a torque wrench. 

Care of the hub

You usually only see your own hubs twice a year, when you change wheels in fall and spring. Here, it is important to inspect the hub carefully so that no deformation or contamination occurs over time. If maintenance has become necessary, a ceramic paste is recommended to protect the hub in addition to simply cleaning it. Often copper paste is still used, but this can lead to galvanic corrosion in conjunction with aluminum rims and almost inevitably fuse the wheels to the hub if it is made of steel. Untreated hubs are possible in principle, but you can easily extend their life with the above trick. In addition, ideally there should be no movement between the hub and the rim of the wheel, which can be ensured by the pastes. 

However, cleaning them with a cloth is unavoidable. This should be done exclusively with a cloth. Steel brushes or sponges made of metal too easily leave scratches on the surface, breaking the protective layer that keeps the hub rust-free. 

The most important tips for care at a glance:

• At least twice a year
• Always clean to prevent the rusting of the hub
• Do not use steel brushes, they scratch the protective layer
• Use copper paste only on steel rims
• Do not tighten bolts too tight or too loose
• Secure the fit with a torque wrench

Protect your Hub with Wheels from Premium Wheels

Since the hub is a relatively sensitive element, it is recommended to use wheels designed by the manufacturer of the car. Even a slightly too narrow or too wide rim can cause problems with the hub. For example, equipping an Audi with the wheels of a Ford may fit at first, but in the long run there always is a risk of damage. In our wide range of wheels, you will definetly find the wheels that fit your car. Not only that, thanks to our company philosophy, these wheels are also much cheaper than those from other suppliers. Whether brand new or used and professionally refurbished, our wheels offer you driving pleasure and safety, so you don't have to worry about the hubs. If you're looking for wheels, look no further than Premium Wheels!

 If You want to Learn more about Wheels:

• Changing Tires or Rims
• What is the Offset?
• Why the Change to Winter Tires is Important
• Buying used rims - Tipps and Tricks
• What is the Bolt Circle?