Gen 5 Wheel Hub Replacement

[BKSmooth]

I have a 2005 Camry LE, 2az-fe 2.4L with ~ 123,000 miles. Got the tires rotated @ Firestone recently and they inspected my brakes for me. Came back and told me that my front left wheel bearing and or hub assembly seems to be significantly worn as there is a lot of play with the wheel. Quoted me ~$380 (parts+labor) to replace the left front hub assembly. It was suggested it might be in my best long-term interests to replace both for $760...

6 months/15K miles ago I posted about the steering wheel rotating back and forth +/- 20 degrees while driving on level ground at speeds <20 MPH; The wheel bearings were mentioned by some, I believe. I replaced the tires soon after and the free rotation went away; So I thought nothing of it and this issue hasn't returned. I don't currently notice any particular noise while driving down the freeway at this time. Nothing else with the steering seems out of the ordinary. The car doesn't ride as smooth as it did 100,000 miles ago, but c'mon....

I have tried a good bit to find answers to these questions but have come up with minimal info.

1) Does anyone know of a DIY guide or otherwise to replacing the hub assembly as a whole, or the bearing? Info I've come across for similar FWD cars make the job sound like a nightmare.

2) What are the reasonably possible consequences of "letting this go?" I know that's a ridiculous question for a car with otherwise nothing wrong with it but I'm really in a bind -- my apt building burned down in Feb and I was way under-insured. I need the car to at least get me through another 15-18 months/30,000 miles.

3) If I do play dumb and forget about it, what are some of the signs I may notice when it can't wait any longer?

Any and all information is much appreciated. Thanks!

[JSM1284]

The bearing needs to be pressed in. If you dont have access to a Hydralic bench press, let Firestone do it. You dont have to due the other side, as there is no overlappong labor.

[BKSmooth]

Originally Posted by JSM1284

The bearing needs to be pressed in. If you dont have access to a Hydralic bench press, let Firestone do it. You dont have to due the other side, as there is no overlappong labor.

Thanks for the reply. I gathered that paying to have it done is the best thing to do; In your experience, what are the consequences of not replacing the bearing or hub assembly (I understand there is always a good deal of variation and unpredictability)? And what are the signs that it cannot wait any longer?

[JSM1284]

Roaring or grinding noise is the first indication of worn hub bearing. If they state they wheel had play, and you heard nothing from it. They could be mistaking it for a bad lower ball joint, or tie rod.