Commonality of wheel bearing requiring replacement on 2008

[muchdutch]

Hi guys,

Haven't really been on here since 2009 (I think). Just a sign that I'm loving my 3 ('08 GT, 96K) and it's performing well!

In March of this year I hit the ditch - covered by insurance, 4K worth of damage not including both passenger rims bent to crap, tires ruined etc. All damage covered through insurance (first accident ever).

Now I'm noticing a humming in the front end. First month I got the car back (May) I thought it was just me. July/August I thought it may have been due to my rims (waiting on the insurance company to cover OEMs). Now it's getting louder - only increases in volume and frequency with speed, no change with shifting, very clearly disappears when merging to the right but steady when straight or left.

I believe this means my front passenger wheel bearing needs some attention. I'm going in for a diagnosis as early as they could get me in - Monday.

What I'm wondering is if it is common for the wheel bearings to need replacing at this stage? I am hoping to hear that it is not common but pretty clearly a result of my accident and I should pursue through insurance.

Any thoughts or advice?

Thanks!

muchdutch

 

[hornsfan10609]

If the car has been wrecked it is very possible for a bearing to fail. After my car was side swiped the insurance company replaced the rear wheel bearing with a 'master pro' knock off part that failed after 3 days so if it was replaced it may have failed already.

 

[muchdutch]

Thanks - I'll have a look back at the service records and see if that was replaced.

Anybody else have to change out bearings around this time just from normal wear and tear?

 

[DKaz]

My sis in law experienced this with her previous Saab 9-3 Aero. Got rid of it after three bearing replacements. A shame, that 2.8 litre 6 cylinder turbo was a joy to drive, mated to a six speed manual.