[NiftySVX]

The replacement of wheel bearings in Subarus has been revisited by the manufacturer many times because they have had so many problems. They no longer approve of the method used in the service manual. The new way to do it involves a SST (special service tool) that all Subaru dealerships were REQUIRED to purchase. The new tool, often called a "hubster" eliminates the need to press the bearing into the knuckle with a press. They determined that this was too delicate a process to be performed and often causes damage to the bearing. this is why they now use the special tool that eliminates the press. A version of this tool is available but it is quite expensive (over $400). Most independent shops will not have this tool because replacing wheel bearings is not very common and that tool can only be used for a few styles of vehicle. For this reason, I always recommend that people have their wheel bearings replaced at a dealership. Oh, and they will check the sealing surface on the axle, to make sure that it is not worn where the seal lip makes contact (I've seen many with a groove worn in them) which will allow debris to enter. If you have them replaced at a shop where they use a press, I can almost promise you will be doing them again.

Just my $0.02