noticed a loud whining (almost like my brakes were dragging) when driving. seems to be worse when under load, but can still hear it even when just coasting. reading through old threads, it sounds like i'm looking at either replacing the axle bearings or the pinion bearing. i took it into the shop, and they drove it and told me it sounded like wheel bearings, but wouldn't know for sure until they tore into it and had a look. they quoted me $350 for labor for what i think was just the bearings. that seems extremely high to me if it was just to replace the wheel bearings. is that reasonable if they're disassembling the rear to make sure the pinion bearing is ok? if that is what they're doing, i'm tempted to have them replace the damn thing while they're in there, even if it is fine.
assuming that the pinion bearing and axle bearing are shot, how much should i expect it to run me (i know it will vary from place to place, so just ballpark)? should i have anything else done while they're in there? btw, car is completely stock M6 T/A w/142,000 miles on it. thanks.