Replace the Wheel Hub Seal of Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Cars When Worn Out

JAKARTA, JANUARY 2026, A warning for those of you who have front-wheel drive cars or Front Wheel Drive (FWD). With high usage and flight hours, the wheel seal or drive shaft seal may wear out and lead to fatal damage.

Therefore, the wheel seal or other name drive shaft seal that is already damaged should be replaced immediately. Because if ignored, the risk could cause the transmission to fail.

Well, a worn wheel seal or one that is due for replacement is marked by a transmission oil leak. To clarify, let's move on to the following discussion.

Function of FWD Wheel Seal

The main function of the FWD wheel seal is to prevent oil leaks from inside the axle or transmission, so that the lubricant does not easily escape through the wheel shaft (drive shaft) from the differential. This device also serves to block dust, water, and dirt from entering the system, ensuring optimal lubrication, smooth wheel bearing performance, and preventing damage to vital components such as the transmission.

This seal also ensures that the oil stays in place and protects the wheel components from contamination by dust, dirt, water, and other particles that can cause wear and premature damage. By preventing leaks and contamination, the seal helps the drive system and wheels to operate optimally and safely.

Indications and Effects of Worn Wheel Seal

The signs of a problematic wheel seal can be identified. Even if the signs are ignored, it will impact surrounding components besides those protected. Here are the indications and effects if the component is having issues and the resulting impacts:

Indications of Worn Wheel Seal

The indications of a worn wheel seal are very easy to identify. Usually, there are oil leaks around the wheel shaft or on the garage floor, with a yellow or red color (transmission oil). And it is certain that the volume of transmission oil will decrease over time.

Effects of Worn Wheel Seal

Oil leaks will cause the transmission oil to run out, which can result in fatal damage to the transmission. Not to mention that dirt entering will damage the wheel bearings, causing the wheels to not rotate smoothly and affecting braking performance.

Why Should It Be Replaced Immediately?

Replacing a worn or damaged wheel seal is very important to maintain the durability and safety of the vehicle, especially for front-wheel drive (FWD) cars. It must be replaced immediately to prevent transmission oil from leaking out completely, which can cause the transmission to fail and serious damage, indicated by the presence of transmission oil leaks (yellow/red) in the front wheel area.

So why should it be replaced immediately?

Prevent transmission failure:

Transmission oil running out due to leaks will cause excessive friction and damage transmission components.

Maintain performance:

Sufficient transmission oil ensures optimal transmission operation.

Safety:

Leaking lubricant can affect the brakes, reducing the grip of the brake pads.

Replacement Procedure

The replacement involves disassembling the wheel shaft, removing the old seal, cleaning the area, then installing a new seal (original recommended) with special tools, and refilling the transmission oil. Here is the sequence.

1. Preparation

Lift the car with a jack, remove the wheel, and detach the brake components (caliper, disc).

2. Disassemble Wheel Shaft

Remove the wheel shaft nut and take out the wheel shaft from the hub/spindle.

3. Remove Damaged Seal

Use a seal puller tool to extract the worn seal from the transmission/differential housing.

4. Clean Dirty Area

Clean the remnants of old oil and dirt from its seat.

5. Install New Seal

Use a seal installer tool to tap the new seal in straight and flat, ensuring the spring inside is not damaged.

6. Reassemble

Reinsert the wheel shaft, install the bearings (if any), nut, brake components, and wheel.

7. Refill Transmission Oil

Refill the transmission oil according to the specifications and perform bleeding (if necessary).

Replace Wheel Seal with OEM Products

When you want to replace a damaged wheel seal, there are indeed many product options on the market besides original products. But considering the complicated installation process and its vital function, it is best to use original wheel seals as they are more durable than aftermarket ones.