I purchased my X-Type at 72,000 miles. It now has 83,000 miles on it and within the last 4000 miles I have been noting a growing issue. At first it was a very pronounced, yet, intermittent dull deep squeaking that happened upon each rotation of the left rear wheel that would only occur after the vehicle had been sitting for a day or so and which would last only for about 20 rotations of the wheel, then it would subside. This would only happen once in about 20 drives.

Upon embarking on a 2000 mile trip two weeks ago, I noted that during braking the car shuddered a bit as if the rotors were warped. This progressively got worse, however, not to a point that my safety seemed endangered. Once we got to the middle of our trip, I loaded three other bigger fellows into my car and we started off down the road. When we did so the squeaking returned only to die down again after about 20 wheel rotations. We continued our trip and about 60 miles from our final destination we stopped for a break. When we restarted, a loud rubbing sound occurred and the vehicle shuddered as if something was caught in a wheel well. We stopped, looked the car over and noted no visible problems. I put the car in reverse and backed down the road feeling no problems nor sensing any problems while in reverse. Upon engaging the car forward in first through fifth the car would shudder under accelerating torque and then again under deceleration but would not shudder once the car hit a steady speed. Realizing a serious issue was afoot we decided to push it and managed to make it to our home, however, the shuddering and vibration, along with a loud thrumming coming from the rear of the vehicle became worse, especially under acceleration and deceleration. The car is now parked and I haven't driven it in three days and I am wondering if its a trans-axle, CV bearing, well bearing, carrier bearing, wheel bearing or wheel hub assembly issue? Other points of note:

*Someone behind us noted that the left rear wheel seemed to be out of balance and wobbling slightly at the end of our trip
*Upon grabbing the wheel and tire itself and shaking it violently there seems to be no indication of give or sway that might indicate a wheel bearing or hub assembly problem

First off, what could the problem be?
Secondly, how much would any given set of problems set me back at an American shop?

Anxiously awaiting your reply...

 

Spoke with the dealership this afternoon. As I described the symptoms the service manager stated that he thought it sounded like a drive shaft matter and that the cost of repairs were estimated at $1200.00. We will see...