:? I have a 2000 SE and I hear a whining noise around 30mph and it gets greater the faster I go. The noise is persistant when I select neutral. My tranny fluid level is good and it shifts well. Two fluid changes and 94,000 miles+ are on the tranny. How can I check my wheel bearings? Thanks!

Lift that side of the car and try to move the wheel around, if you can move it up/down you've got bearing problems.

Another test is run the car at 30mph as you describe and turn sharp both left and then right. Does the sound get louder one way or the other, or both ways? If its louder when you turn left its the right bearing, cars weight is shifted right and vise versa if turning right.
I have replaced 3 wheel bearings in Bone Evil (2 drivers, 1 pass) in 128,000 miles. prollay due for a another pass one soon :?

btw the wheel speed sensor is embeded in the bearing and mounted to the hub, all has to be replaced not just the bearing....$$$

PontiacDad = are these easy enough to do (bearing change) for a complete novice. I've never changed a tire, so I'm not very familiar with all the mechancal parts...

Bonnie, I would not recommend doing that job. Nothing against you, but leave it to a professional. Just my .02.

ok Thanks Markwb. It was a wild momentary thought ... a way to save $$