I need to do a wheel bearing on my 2006 E61. Is there really no way to do this without taking half the suspension apart?! Wheel alignments are a right faff so wanted to avoid it but it seems like the only option to do this is to take the strut out completely by unbolting it at the top mount. It all seems excessive for a little old wheel bearing! Of the aftermarket options available i am leaning to Febi or SKF - the SKF is about 35£ more expensive from Parts In Motion but am thinking they are well known for good quality bearings so worth the extra?
Have you considered FAG bearings? Unfortunately, IIRC, you are right - the whole strut need to be taken out. Are you planning to do both sides? If one is kaput, the other one won't be far behind.
Well... I may have been premature. I thought I could detect play in the front left consistent with wheel bearing play - along with a rumble from the road when driving. I was away with no tools all week but pre-emptivley ordered the bearing. Just jacked up and the bearings are fine! Whilst on the jack I had a poke around and there is significant play in the track rod joint at the rack end on the drivers side though. This wouldnt cause a rumble though would it? I'll get it on my ramp now and confirm for sure but looks like the track rods will need to be changed whatever.
