Shouldn't this work be under warranty?

Ari K, your seeing the result of the "COOL FACTOR", that intangable...undefinable and certainly costly element that plays a role in our lives. Like you I wonder about the ride and comfort issues. But, like the ladies during the 1800's, with their tight courstetts (girdles)....it's all fashion...irreguardless of comfort!!!

Sorry to hear about the bearing issue. But at least you took care of it before serious damage occured.....that is a plus.....some others just wonder or don't even hear the noise and blissfully roll down the road until expensive parts need replacing.

The wheel bearings on your car are a sealed unit and are a non-maintenance item. They are packed with their own grease at the factory. It's the luck of the draw if they fail prematurely. Unless your car is an amphibious vehicle and floats in water as well as drives on land they usually last longer than 3 years. As for the rears, it's anyone's guess but most are reliable. Gone are the days where bearings were greased and lasted practically the life of the car if greased often enough. The same goes for ball joints and tie rod ends. They used to come with zerc nipples and if they were greased religiously they were good for life. I would prefer that greasing be a maintenance item during an oil change. At least that way they are as reliable as the driver who takes the time to maintain them. I still have my old grease gun sitting in the garage, wishing that i can grease my front end. There's some venting for you.
Here in Montreal, we are pothole capital. It's been known to have the road collapse underneath you on a warm winter day. Forget dodging around potholes, i reached a stop sign one day and looked both ways only to notice my car sink through the asphalt. No kidding my exhaust pipe was blowing bubbles under the water that surfaced. As for 17, 18 or 22 inch wheels, it's personal choice. The ride is crap and forget coffee while driving. They are much more prone to pothole damage. Most people try to convert to 15 inch winter wheels around here. I'm one of the few who also prefers a smoother ride from a tire that has a taller sidewall.
Ari 98 S70