I thought it was the transmission, but it's the wheel bearing?

My car, an automatic, didn't seem to change into the 5th gear. I took it to Aamco this morning to have the transmission checked out, and I fully expected they would tell me I need to have my transmission repaired or replaced.



Instead, they said it's the wheel bearing and that my transmission is just fine. My questions are:



1. How much will this cost me, ball park figure? My car is a 1997 BMW 528.



2. Is it possible that a wheel bearing can make the car feel and sound like it's not changing gears?I thought it was the transmission, but it's the wheel bearing?
1. Between $500 to $800. These are sealed bearings and must be hydraulically pressed in.

2. Yes, the noise they will generate will make it sound as if the last gear has not engaged.



Get this done ASAP as the heat generated by the bad bearing will cause other parts to be damaged. Example, the lugs will break off when you try to remove the lug nuts to change the tire.I thought it was the transmission, but it's the wheel bearing?
1. labor wise id charge you 3.0 hrs for a front bearing

and 3.5hrs for a rear. not including 1.0 hr diagnosis time.

2. if you see the rpm's dip when they normally would in 5th gear, then your trans is fine.