Got my X5 back this afternoon with its new right front BMW wheel bearing. I can't believe how much quieter it rides. Couldn't be happier with the turnaround time and reasonable cost ($395+tax as quoted with BMW bearing). Hub was fine. I'm really glad I took it in and found this shop (Amity Motors in Woodbridge, CT for those in the area).

As I could have predicted from some of the comments in this thread, I asked the tech how it went he just said "Well, it wasn't fun." On that note, I may leave future wheel bearing replacements to the professionals. Thanks to all for the feedback.

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Silver 2006 BMW X5 3.0i Auto