2000 Alero Humming Noise

[jrozanc]

GLS 4D Coupe 3.4L V6 90K
Just recently our Alero started to make a humming sound when driving. The sound is in corelation to the speed of the car. As the car speeds up/down the humming sound changes tone. It almost sounds like big nobby truck tires going down the highway. Besides the typical mystery front suspension rattle the car drives/shifts fine. Any ideas?
Wheel bearing, transmission, (tires are 1 year old, broken steel belt?)

On a side note after having owned this car for about 4 years now, I'm not that impressed with GM/Olds any more. Gimme a break, who designs and builds a car that has a intake gasket, blower motor switch and the hazard warning switch all go bad before a car hit's 100k.

[Rivyndel]

I've got a 2001 GLS with just under 60K miles. Bought it used 3 monthes ago. My trac off, abs, and service vehicle soon lights came on first. Then the humming started about a month later. Just as you describe it. It was the wheel bearings. I had both of them replaced cost was $525.

Ron

[Ridenour]

That humming is definnately the wheel bearings. I replaced all four of mine after I rolled my car and I know the exact sound you mean. Have somebody ride with you, and they should be able to lean around in the car and locate which corner it's coming from.

[jrozanc]

Just heard from the mechanic. It's the left from Wheel Bearing Assy. $331.86 out the door. The mechanic said he was using the more expensive hub's because in his expierence the chearper ones don't last to long. Thanks to all who responded. This website has been fantastic on helping me solve my Alero issues.

[pp270]

I just changed one out last weekend. $105 for the part and about 1.5-2hrs worth of work.

[ericinalaska]

I thought it was wheel bearings, too. I replaced the one I thought was bad today, but the sound is still there. I'm starting to think it's in the steering. Arrrrrr!