Noise at 40-45 MPH

Daughter's 2003 (automatic) would start making noise at 40-45 MPH when in 4th gear. I suspected wheel bearings so she took it to a wheel & tire place. They test drove it and then put it on the lift. Raised the speed up to noise threshold speed and listened to where the noise was coming from. They said it was the transmission (transaxle). They recommended a transmission place. Took it there and they diagnosed it as both front wheel bearings. The transmission shop did the repair. Noise is gone and the car drives better,smoother, acc'd to my daughter.