I had my 2001 Forester's oil changed this morning at a service station recommended by a friend - my first visit there. In addition to the oil change, I had them check my brakes because they have been intermittently squeaking. During the course of their work (the brakes were fine) they discovered that the left rear wheel bearing was making noise, and is leaking. They recommended replacing it and gave me an estimate of $333 to have it done. I didn't go for it today, and thought that I might ask a few questions about it here first:
- What kind of noise should I be hearing/what should I be feeling with a bad wheel bearing? I can't hear/feel anything other than the normal (or I assume to be normal) hum of my tires.
- How urgent is this repair, if this is legitimate? Is there any simple way for me to verify that what they're saying is accurate?
- Is 3 a reasonable price for this? (I live in Richmond, VA).
- I think that there was a general discussion here awhile ago about Forester and Impreza wheel bearings. Is there something I should be aware of before OK'ing this repair (ie - factory recalls, etc)?
- How unusual is it for a wheel bearing to wear out, and should I expect this to occur on the other 3 wheels soon, as well?
The car has just over 50,000 miles on it, and has had no other major repairs so far.
Any thoughts/advice on this would be appreciated.
Thanks!