Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my research and content. Read my full affiliate disclosure here.
If your Lincoln MKZ feels loose at the wheel or makes growling or grinding noises, the wheel hub assembly is a likely culprit. Choosing the right assembly affects steering precision, wheel alignment, and the longevity of bearings and related suspension parts. This guide highlights seven top shortlisted options for Lincoln MKZ wheel hub assembly replacements and explains which features matter most. The picks were evaluated for fitment accuracy, bearing quality, and expected durability. Read on to find assemblies that match your vehicle and driving needs.
Looking for other parts? See all Lincoln MKZ parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best overall The best all-around choice for most situations | TRQ Wheel Bearing & Hub Assembly Set, 2-Piece |  |
| Best quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Detroit Axle Front Steering Knuckles with Wheel Bearing Hub Assemblies (2-piece) for Lincoln MKZ / Ford Fusion |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | FKG Wheel Hub Bearing Assembly (Fits 2013–2020 Ford Fusion, 2013–2016 Lincoln MKZ) |  |
| Best budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | PHILTOP Rear Wheel Bearing & Hub Assembly for 2014–2016 Lincoln MKZ (Rear, 5 Lugs) |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Detroit Axle Front Wheel Hub Bearing Assembly for Lincoln MKZ (front left & right) |  |
| Most popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | TRQ Rear Wheel Bearing & Hub Assembly Set, 2-Piece (Rear Left & Right) |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | A-Premium Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly (5-Lug) |  |
1. TRQ Wheel Bearing & Hub Assembly Set, 2-Piece
| Material | Alloy Steel |
|---|---|
| Bearing Type | Ball Bearing |
| Quantity | 2 Piece |
| Specification Met | ISO 16949 |
This TRQ two-piece wheel bearing and hub assembly set replaces the front and rear hub assemblies on compatible Lincoln MKZ applications. It arrives fully pre-assembled to simplify installation and is intended for direct-fit replacement without modifications. Typical use is to quiet noisy bearings, restore stable wheel rotation, and eliminate vibration caused by worn hubs. Notable features include machined alloy-steel construction, ball-type bearings specified to industry standard ISO 16949, and two pieces covering driver and passenger sides so both sides can be refreshed at once. Practical benefits are easier DIY or shop installation thanks to pre-assembly, a parts reference list for verifying fitment, and inclusion of common bearing reference numbers for matching. Limitations to be aware of are mixed user reports about quality control—some buyers report damaged or incomplete units—so careful inspection on receipt is advised, and longevity may vary compared with higher-end factory-quality hubs. Expect reduced road noise and restored drivability when the parts fit and are installed correctly.
Best for: Buyers seeking a balanced, reliable factory-replacement option for routine hub failure on a Lincoln MKZ who value a straightforward install and good value over premium aftermarket upgrades.
Less Ideal for: Avoid this kit if you want the highest-end, long-life performance parts for heavy-duty or performance-driven use or if you cannot accept any risk of receiving a defective unit.
- Pre-assembled driver and passenger hub assemblies for quicker installation
- Machined alloy-steel construction for improved fit and surface finish
- Ball-bearing design meeting ISO 16949 for industry-standard manufacturing
- Includes both front and rear fitment references to confirm compatibility with Lincoln MKZ models
- Some customers report occasional quality-control issues such as missing hardware or damaged parts on arrival
- Durability reports vary and long-term longevity is not consistently verified
Verdict: A practical, direct-fit two-piece hub and bearing set for Lincoln MKZ owners who want an affordable, easy-to-install replacement but should inspect units carefully for quality issues.
2. Detroit Axle Front Steering Knuckles with Wheel Bearing Hub Assemblies (2-piece) for Lincoln MKZ / Ford Fusion
| Position | Front |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Detroit Axle |
| Exterior | Iron |
| Fitment | Replacement for 2007-2012 Lincoln MKZ |
This Detroit Axle kit supplies both front steering knuckles with pre-assembled wheel bearing hubs intended as direct replacements for compatible Lincoln MKZ and Ford Fusion models. Each knuckle arrives fully assembled with the hub bearing to eliminate pressing operations, so a professional or experienced DIY mechanic can swap the assemblies without special presses. The cast iron knuckles and electrocoated backplates aim to resist corrosion while the bearing steel hubs are tested for impact and fatigue to support stable handling and reduce vibration. In practice this simplifies a suspension repair by replacing worn knuckles and bearings in one job and restoring quiet, precise wheel rotation. Some buyers report long-term reliability and improved ride feel, while others have experienced warranty and replacement hassles, so factor in service support when choosing aftermarket parts. Installation changes alignment, so expect a post-replacement alignment. This kit targets buyers who want a high-quality, ready-to-install hub/knuckle solution that closely matches factory fit and performance.
Best for: Performance-oriented drivers who prioritize factory-quality replacements that restore handling and wheel stability and who prefer ready-to-install assemblies to minimize shop labor.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who prioritize manufacturer-backed dealer service or who prefer sourcing parts directly from the vehicle manufacturer may want to consider factory-sourced options instead.
- Comes fully assembled with hub bearings to avoid press-fit operations and speed installation
- Cast iron knuckles with electrocoated backplates for improved corrosion resistance
- Designed to match factory fit, form, and function for compatible vehicles
- Includes both driver and passenger side assemblies for a complete front-end replacement
- Aftermarket warranty and support experiences vary among buyers
- Some users reported premature bearing failure in individual cases
Verdict: A high-quality, pre-assembled front knuckle and hub kit aimed at restoring factory handling for Lincoln MKZ owners who want a ready-to-install aftermarket solution.
3. FKG Wheel Hub Bearing Assembly (Fits 2013–2020 Ford Fusion, 2013–2016 Lincoln MKZ)
| Manufacturer | FKG |
|---|---|
| Fits Front | 2013-2016 Ford Fusion, 2017-2019 L4, 2020 Fusion; 2013-2016 Lincoln MKZ |
| Fits Rear | Selective AWD years 2015-2016 Fusion, 2017-2019 AWD L4, 2013-2014 MKZ, 2015-2016 MKZ AWD |
This FKG wheel hub bearing assembly replaces the factory hub on compatible Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ model years and is offered as a front or rear position option depending on vehicle and drivetrain. It arrives as a complete hub with bearing preinstalled, which simplifies installation for DIY mechanics or technicians and removes the need to press in a separate bearing. The listing notes ISO/TS 16949 certification and claimed OE-quality testing, which suggests manufacturing controls similar to factory replacement parts. In real-world use the hub restores proper wheel mounting, ABS ring function, and eliminates noise or play from worn hubs; several buyer reports confirm good fit and problem resolution. Limitations include no explicit long-term durability claims beyond the certification and fitment is specific to listed model years and AWD/rear exceptions, so verify correct front/rear and AWD application before ordering. Expect a lower cost alternative to dealer parts with generally reliable fit for routine replacement jobs.
Best for: Practical optimizers who want a cost-effective, factory-quality replacement hub that gets a Lincoln MKZ back on the road without dealer markup and with minimal installation complexity.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking an upgraded performance hub or a verified long-term warranty package should consider alternatives from brands that publish extended durability testing and warranty terms.
- Complete hub assembly with preinstalled bearing simplifies installation and avoids bearing press work
- ISO/TS 16949 certified production indicating factory-quality manufacturing controls
- Compatibility covers front and rear positions for specified Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ years
- Multiple buyer reports show correct fitment and restoration of ABS and wheel function
- Fitment varies by year and AWD configuration so incorrect selection can cause returns
- No explicit long-term mileage or warranty details included in the product listing
Verdict: A budget-friendly, factory-quality replacement hub assembly that simplifies installation and restores wheel and ABS function on the specified Lincoln MKZ model years.
4. PHILTOP Rear Wheel Bearing & Hub Assembly for 2014–2016 Lincoln MKZ (Rear, 5 Lugs)
| Position | Rear |
|---|---|
| ABS Included | No |
| Wheel Stud Quantity | 5 |
| Flange Bolt Hole Quantity | 4 |
This PHILTOP rear wheel bearing and hub assembly is a direct-fit replacement for the rear hub on 2014–2016 Lincoln MKZ FWD models. It ships as a single complete hub with studs installed so it replaces a worn or noisy hub without the need to press a separate bearing into the knuckle. The unit is built from carbon structural steel with corrosion-resistant finish and an improved seal design intended to keep moisture and contaminants out, which should reduce noise and extend service life compared with older failed hubs. Installation is the same as a stock-style hub and is suitable for a DIY mechanic with basic tools or a shop performing a rear hub job. Important limitations are that this is an economy aftermarket option rather than a factory-branded part and the listing shows no ABS tone ring on the unit, so confirm ABS compatibility for your MKZ before ordering. Expect good value for routine repairs but allow for technician verification of fit and ABS function when replacing a critical wheel component.
Best for: Cost-conscious owners who want an affordable, practical repair part to replace a worn rear hub on a 2014–2016 Lincoln MKZ FWD and prefer a straightforward, plug-and-play replacement over rebuilding components.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a factory-sourced or high-performance hub for heavy-duty or long-term high-mileage use should consider OEM or premium aftermarket options instead.
- Direct-fit rear hub assembly for 2014–2016 Lincoln MKZ FWD that replaces bearing and hub in one unit
- Preinstalled wheel studs and corrosion-resistant finish reduce installation prep and help longevity
- Improved seal design and triple oil seal intended to limit contamination and decrease noise
- Aftermarket economy part rather than a factory-branded unit
- Listing indicates ABS is not included so ABS tone ring compatibility must be verified
Verdict: A wallet-friendly, direct-replacement rear hub for 2014–2016 Lincoln MKZ FWD that delivers good value for routine repairs but requires ABS compatibility confirmation.
5. Detroit Axle Front Wheel Hub Bearing Assembly for Lincoln MKZ (front left & right)
| Bearing Number | 513394 |
|---|---|
| Bearing Type | Ball Bearing |
| Compatible Lubricant | Grease |
| Position | Front Left and Right |
| Lugs | 5 |
These Detroit Axle front wheel hub bearing assemblies replace the left and right front hubs and are intended as direct factory-quality replacements for compatible Lincoln MKZ years listed by the manufacturer. Each kit includes two preassembled hubs with a magnetic ABS encoder seal and a five-lug flange, so installation is limited to swapping the old hub for the new unit and reusing or replacing fasteners as required. The assemblies use ball bearings with grease lubrication and meet ISO 16949 specification testing, which supports long-term durability under normal driving conditions. Buyers will appreciate the included pair and the 10-year warranty that indicates manufacturer confidence in wear and fatigue performance. Expect a typical professional or well-equipped DIY install that can take a couple of hours per side and may require specialty sockets and an impact tool to remove the old hub. These are aftermarket replacements that aim to match factory fit and function, but installation requires the correct procedures and torqueing to retain ABS sensor operation and alignment integrity.
Best for: Reliability-focused buyers who prioritize a durable, tested factory-style replacement for scheduled bearing or hub failure and who prefer parts that aim to restore original driving feel and safety.
Less Ideal for: Budget DIYers seeking a quick, tool-free repair or users who need a universal or multi-vehicle hub solution should look for simpler or vehicle-specific alternatives.
- Sold as a matched pair covering both front left and right for one repair event
- Magnetic ABS encoder seal included to preserve ABS sensor functionality
- Meets ISO 16949 and uses preassembled bearings filled with grease for ready installation
- Five-lug flange matches factory wheel attachment pattern
- Installation can require specialty e-torx drivers and heavy-duty impact tools not included
- May require professional installation for correct torqueing and ABS calibration if owner lacks experience
Verdict: A durable, factory-style matched pair of front hub assemblies for Lincoln MKZ that focuses on long-term reliability but may need specialty tools or a pro for proper installation.
6. TRQ Rear Wheel Bearing & Hub Assembly Set, 2-Piece (Rear Left & Right)
| Quantity | 2 Piece |
|---|---|
| Bearing Type | Ball Bearing |
| Included Components | Rear left and right wheel bearing & hub assemblies |
| Material Type | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) |
This TRQ kit supplies both rear left and right wheel bearing and hub assemblies intended as direct-fit replacements for Lincoln MKZ models with front-wheel drive and four-wheel ABS from the specified years. It arrives as pre-assembled hub units to simplify installation and reduce bench work, and TRQ includes installation videos aimed at DIYers and independent shops. In use the assemblies restore wheel support and ABS sensor coupling while reducing noise and vibration when the original bearings have worn. Buyers report mostly smooth, quiet operation after installation, though a minority of customers encountered missing hardware or parts with inadequate packaging. The kit uses ball-type bearings and is sold as a two-piece set, so you replace both sides at once for matched performance. Expect straightforward bolt-on installation on compatible vehicles, but confirm fitment for your MKZ year before ordering and be prepared to source missing fasteners if an individual unit arrives incomplete.
Best for: Convenience-driven buyers who want a ready-to-install, direct-fit rear hub solution that minimizes shop time and enables straightforward DIY or quick independent-shop replacements for Lincoln MKZ models.
Less Ideal for: Those seeking guaranteed factory-origin parts or users who prefer OEM-only replacements for long-term original-equipment provenance should consider factory-quality options instead.
- Includes both left and right rear hub assemblies so both sides can be replaced together for matched performance
- Pre-assembled, direct-fit units reduce installation time and eliminate pressing bearings in/out
- Designed for vehicles with four-wheel ABS so sensor fitment is preserved
- TRQ provides DIY installation videos to guide independent repairs and save shop time
- Some customers reported packaging damage or missing mounting hardware on arrival which required sourcing parts separately
- A small number of units in reviews exhibited premature failure or ABS faults, indicating variable quality control
Verdict: A convenient, ready-to-install rear hub and bearing pair that gets a quiet, matched replacement quickly onto compatible Lincoln MKZs but may require extra inspection for missing hardware or occasional quality issues.
7. A-Premium Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly (5-Lug)
| Bearing Type | Ball Bearing |
|---|---|
| Wheel Stud Quantity | 5-Lug |
| Pre-Greased | Yes |
| Material | GCr15 Steel, 65Mn Steel |
This A-Premium wheel bearing and hub assembly is a direct-fit replacement designed to restore wheel support and eliminate noise or vibration caused by a worn hub on Lincoln MKZ vehicles. It arrives pre-greased with a sealed ball bearing and replacement wheel studs so you can install it as a straightforward swap for the factory unit. The assembly claims heavy load capacity and includes the bearing cage, seals, and an axle-spline-ready flange for inserting the CV axle directly. In practice this means it handles everyday driving loads and should stop the grinding, humming, or wobble associated with a failing hub. Installation is typical for hub swaps and usually requires basic tools and rust-penetrant on corroded fasteners. Limitations to note are that it does not include a speed sensor and uses aftermarket brand manufacturing rather than factory-branded sourcing, so fit and long-term durability depend on proper installation and vehicle conditions. For a risk-averse buyer focused on restoring quiet operation, it is a practical, ready-to-install option for the MKZ.
Best for: Risk-averse mainstream buyers seeking a straightforward, ready-to-install replacement to stop noise and vibration on a Lincoln MKZ and restore normal driving behavior.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who want a new integrated ABS speed-sensor hub or who prefer OEM-branded parts for long-term factory-spec assurance should consider alternatives.
- Pre-greased, sealed ball bearing for immediate installation and reduced prep work
- Includes replacement wheel studs and sealing components to restore hub integrity
- Designed as direct-fit with the same flange and lug pattern as the factory unit
- Manufactured materials (GCr15 and 65Mn steels) aimed at adequate load capacity for daily driving
- Does not include a wheel speed sensor, so ABS components must be reused or sourced separately
- Aftermarket brand may vary from factory-quality parts in long-term durability
Verdict: A practical, pre-greased direct-fit hub assembly that reliably restores quiet operation on Lincoln MKZ models but lacks an integrated speed sensor and is an aftermarket alternative to factory parts.
Choosing the Right Lincoln MKZ Wheel Hub Assembly: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment Accuracy
Proper fitment is the foundation of a successful replacement because the hub must align precisely with the vehicle's spindle, brake rotor, and ABS sensor locations. If bolt patterns or mounting surfaces are even slightly off, you can experience vibration, premature wear, or difficulty securing the rotor and caliper.
Verify that the assembly is specified for the Lincoln MKZ year and axle position. Fitment accuracy also affects ease of installation, reducing the need for additional modifications or adapters and helping ensure wheel alignment remains within factory tolerances.
Bearing Quality and Sealing
The bearing inside the hub assembly determines how smoothly the wheel spins and how long the part will last under load. High-quality bearings use tighter tolerances and better heat-treated materials, which reduces play and the risk of premature failure under highway speeds or heavy loads.
Effective seals protect the bearing from water, road salt, and contaminants. A durable seal design increases service life and reduces the chance of grinding noises or contamination-related failure, especially in climates with frequent moisture or winter conditions.
ABS Sensor Integration
Many Lincoln MKZ models rely on an ABS tone ring or integrated sensor within the hub assembly for wheel speed data. Proper integration ensures the anti-lock and traction control systems function reliably, while an incorrect or damaged tone ring can trigger warning lights or inconsistent braking behavior.
Confirm whether the assembly is for a hub with an ABS ring or requires an external sensor. Assemblies that clearly state sensor compatibility reduce the risk of electrical or diagnostic issues after installation.
Durability and Corrosion Resistance
Hubs are exposed to road debris, salt, and moisture, so corrosion resistance directly impacts longevity. Coatings, plating, and the use of rust-resistant alloys help maintain mounting surfaces and wheel studs, preventing seizure and making future servicing easier.
Durability also pertains to resistance against impact and fatigue from repeated loading. Look for parts described with protective finishes and robust construction to minimize the chance of failure from environmental exposure or normal driving stresses.
Installation and Torque Specifications
Clear installation instructions and published torque specs are important for a safe, long-lasting installation. Correct torque on hub mounting bolts and wheel studs ensures even clamping and avoids distortion of the hub flange or the wheel bearing race.
Assemblies that include or reference the proper torque values help prevent user error during installation and support consistent service procedures, whether you install the part yourself or have it fitted by a technician.
Noise and Vibration Characteristics
A hub assembly that minimizes noise and vibration contributes to ride comfort and indicates healthy bearing operation. Design factors such as bearing preload, internal clearance, and quality of machining affect how much noise or rumble is transmitted through the suspension.
Consider how the assembly addresses NVH concerns, particularly if you drive on rough roads or at highway speeds. Parts designed to reduce vibration can prevent secondary wear on tires and suspension components.
How We Chose the Best Lincoln MKZ Wheel Hub Assembly
We focused on parts that are specifically intended to fit the Lincoln MKZ and prioritized criteria that directly affect safety and long-term value. Our evaluation emphasized fitment accuracy to factory mounting points and bolt patterns, bearing and seal quality that influence durability and noise levels, and the robustness of integrated ABS tone rings where applicable. We also considered material and manufacturing standards, such as corrosion-resistant coatings and precision machining, to assess expected service life and ease of installation.Products were excluded if they lacked clear vehicle-specific fitment information, did not provide torque or installation guidance, or had insufficient documentation on bearing tolerances and seal design. We gave preference to assemblies with clear specifications for front or rear application and those that met common OEM mounting and sensor integration requirements. The resulting shortlist represents parts that meet practical fitment and performance expectations for Lincoln MKZ owners looking to replace a worn or noisy hub assembly.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
What are common symptoms of a failing wheel hub assembly on a Lincoln MKZ?
Common signs include a grinding or humming noise that changes with vehicle speed, looseness or play felt in the steering, and uneven tire wear. You might also notice ABS warning lights if the hub's tone ring or sensor is compromised.
Can I replace just the wheel bearing instead of the entire hub assembly?
Sometimes the bearing is serviceable, but many modern hub designs are integrated and replace the bearing as part of the full hub assembly. Replacing the whole assembly is often faster and ensures proper preload and sealing, but it depends on the specific hub design for your Lincoln MKZ.
How important are torque specs when installing a new hub assembly?
Torque specs are very important because proper clamping prevents distortion of the bearing race and ensures the hub flange seats evenly. Using the correct torque reduces the risk of premature failure and helps maintain wheel alignment and braking function.
Will a noisy wheel hub assembly affect vehicle safety?
Yes. Noise often indicates internal wear or contamination and can be accompanied by increased play or reduced bearing load capacity. If left unaddressed, hub failure can affect steering control and braking stability, so it should be inspected promptly.
How do I know if I need a front or rear hub assembly for my Lincoln MKZ?
Identify the affected wheel by the location of the noise or play. Front and rear assemblies differ in mounting configuration and may include different sensor or tone ring arrangements. Check vehicle-specific fitment information to confirm the correct axle position before ordering or installing.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Lincoln MKZ wheel hub assembly means prioritizing fitment accuracy, bearing and seal quality, and proper ABS sensor integration. Balance durability and corrosion protection with clear installation guidance so the part performs reliably under real driving conditions.Focus on components that specify axle position and torque information, and be mindful that correct installation and torqueing are as important as part quality for long-term performance and safety.
Explore More:
- Check out all Lincoln MKZ parts & accessories
- Explore Wheel Hub Assemblies Maintenance & Repair Guides
- Explore Wheels & Tires
- Browse all Auto Parts
