FAG 102438 Wheel Bearing - Front

Front Wheel Bearing for Subaru and Saab

FAG 102438 is a first-generation front wheel bearing built as a compact, sealed unit with preset bearing clearance and lifetime lubrication. It is used on a wide range of Subaru and Saab front applications, including Subaru Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Baja, and Saab 9-2X models.

• Front wheel bearing for select Subaru and Saab applications
• First-generation compact bearing unit with preset clearance
• Sealed and lubricated for life; no routine maintenance required
• Angular contact ball bearing design for front-wheel service
• Outside diameter: 72 mm; inside diameter: 42 mm; height: 38 mm
• Cross-references National 517008 and SKF FW176 for the same application

Application and Fitment Details

This FAG wheel bearing 102438 is specified for front axle service on 1990-2008 Subaru and Saab platforms. It fits 1998-2008 Subaru Forester, front; 1993-2007 Subaru Impreza, front; 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X, front; 2003-2006 Subaru Baja, front; 1990-2004 Subaru Legacy, front; 2000-2004 Subaru Outback, front; 1996-2000 Subaru Impreza, front; and 2000 Subaru Outback, front. For Subaru Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, and Baja front wheel bearing replacement, part number 102438 matches the listed OE-style application coverage.

What This Wheel Bearing Helps Address

• Front wheel noise such as humming, growling, or rumbling
• Excessive wheel play or looseness at the hub
• Rough rotation caused by worn bearing surfaces
• Sealing issues that can lead to contamination and premature wear
• Service needs on Subaru and Saab front hub assemblies

Installation Notes and Tips

Confirm the vehicle year, model, and front position before ordering. Compare the bearing dimensions to the original part: 42 mm inside diameter, 72 mm outside diameter, and 38 mm height. Because this is a sealed, lifetime-lubricated bearing unit, it is not designed for periodic repacking. Proper hub inspection and correct press-fit procedures are important during installation.

Quality Assurance

FAG is part of Schaeffler, a supplier known for OE-level bearing engineering and angular contact ball bearing designs used in demanding wheel applications. Part number 102438 is manufactured as a sealed, preset wheel bearing for consistent front-end service on the listed Subaru and Saab vehicles.