On a Chevy Malibu, a wheel bearing (hub assembly) typically costs about $100 to $350 for the part, with installed prices commonly $300 to $700 per axle depending on year, whether it's front or rear, and labor rates.
What affects the price
Prices vary by whether you’re replacing the front or rear hub, whether you choose aftermarket or OEM parts, and how much labor your shop charges. The following sections break down typical ranges so you can budget accordingly.
Part cost by location (front vs rear)
To help you budget, here are typical price ranges for common Malibu configurations. These reflect new hub assemblies, usually sold as wheel bearing assemblies, and may differ for used or remanufactured parts.
- Front wheel hub assemblies (left or right): typically $100–$350 for aftermarket parts; OEM/Genuine GM parts often $250–$450 per axle.
- Rear wheel hub assemblies: typically $90–$280 for aftermarket parts; OEM/GM parts often $180–$350 per axle.
Prices shown are for the part only; labor and any necessary ABS sensor or related hardware will add to the total.
Labor and total installed cost
Labor costs vary by region and shop, but the work generally takes about 1 to 2 hours per axle. Combine this with typical labor rates to estimate total installed cost.
- Labor: 1–2 hours per axle; typical shop rates range from about $75 to $120 per hour, depending on location and vehicle access.
- Estimated total installed cost per axle (front hub): roughly $300 to $700 when including parts and labor; rear hub: roughly $250 to $550.
Note: If the vehicle requires additional components such as brake hardware or axle nut replacement, the total can be higher.
Additional considerations for Malibu owners
Model year and drivetrain differences
Some Chevrolet Malibu generations use different hub designs or bearing integration. Early 2010s models may have different fasteners or sensor arrangements than newer 2018–2024 designs. Always verify the correct part with your VIN when ordering.
Warranty and replacement options
OEM parts typically carry a longer manufacturer warranty than aftermarket parts. Remanufactured hubs can be cheaper but may have different reliability. Discuss these options with your mechanic.
Summary
Wheel bearing costs for a Chevy Malibu vary mainly by year, front vs rear, and whether you buy OEM or aftermarket parts. Expect part prices from roughly $90 to $350 per axle, with total installed costs typically ranging from about $300 to $700 per axle for front hubs and $250 to $550 per axle for rear hubs, plus any add-ons or special labor. Getting quotes from multiple shops and confirming the exact part for your VIN will help you lock in the best price.