Looking for input on possible wheel bearing problem. I believe it is the front driver side wheel that whines loud and gets louder as I go faster. Sounds like a wheel bearing but the sound does not get quieter when turning like I've seen before. Jacked up the front and manually spun the wheels. The passenger side turns okay by hand but I could barely turn the driver's side. There is no wobble when shaking the wheel when on the jack and there may be some vibration when driving highway speed but if there is - it is barely noticeable. Could it be an axle or transmission problem (5 speed manual)? Your comments on possible causes is welcome.

 

welcome to the forum.. did you try and release the front brake calipers on the drivers side and see if it still is hard to spin the hub. if so it may be a worn bearing.

 

I researched a lot of web sites but unfortunately I did not find anything to help with identifying the problem I was experiencing or videos for that car on pressing in new bearings. I don't have a press and did not want to hammer and chisel it out without seeing it done first. Took the car to the dealership and explained I thought was a wheel bearing - they checked it out, agreed with me and replaced the bearing. That was the problem - the car now sounds and feels brand new again. Total cost with a 15% discount was $325.

 

good that you got it fixed.