2010–2019 Subaru Outback: Humming or growling noise that rises with speed (wheel bearing)
Likely causes, ranked
- Worn rear (or front) wheel bearing or hub assemblyShop
- Tire wear noise that sounds similarDIY
Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.
DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section
Parts to check
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Symptom: A hum, drone or growl that gets louder with speed and may change when you swerve gently left and right.
Likely causes
- Wheel bearing. Subaru Outback Forums owners describe replacing one or more rear bearings, and some shops confirm with a chassis ear or by spinning the wheel on a lift.
- Tires. Cupped or unevenly worn tires can mimic bearing noise. Rotate them and listen again.
DIY or shop?
Bearing replacement is a shop job for most owners because the bearing is pressed in. Experienced DIYers with a press can do it.
Useful steps
- Note when the noise changes as you steer or turn.
- Rotate the tires to rule them out.
- Ask the shop to confirm which corner before replacing parts.
Vehicle focus: 2010–2019 Subaru Outback.
Safety / mechanic note
A badly worn bearing can overheat or let the wheel wobble. Verify with a mechanic if the noise gets loud.
Recalls & service bulletins
No recalls or service bulletins are listed for this page yet.
NHTSA complaints: 48 keyword-matched complaints (of 5,720 unique complaints filed under NHTSA model names OUTBACK, 2010–2019; NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).
Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Sources
What actually fixed it?
Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.