Ok, just as it was last time, wheel noise was being caused by the front-end being out of alignment. I never had any handling issues, just the noise coming from the front wheels. Also had the added benefit of fixing most of the wheel shimmy during braking. Going to do the brake/bearings anyway because it's due now. 76k miles and still looks/runs like new.
History:
New Jan 2000
Oil/filter every 3000 miles (myself)
Transmission service 75k (myself)
Plugs 70k (myself)
2 front end alignments, one at 30k, one at 76k
FREE replacement tires for my Firestone's at 35k (Michellin LTX A/T's, fantastic tires-hardly any wear after almost 40k miles!)
Brakes under warranty at 12k and 20k.