Failing Wheel Bearing
 

For context: I recently changed my transmission fluid about two weekends ago, I have just recently picked up a low humming noise that increases in volume with acceleration. Which to my knowledge could be a failing wheel bearing. Moreover, I installed H&R RSS Coil overs and am about roughly an inch or two below factory height (low enough to allow air gaps between the coils but not low enough to mandate more adjustable arms, along with no rubbing of any kind) Furthermore, I've gone through with getting alignment from a Porsche autocross mechanic, the best I could find. Last note, I had issues with the rear driver side toe arm, the bolt connecting to the wheel assembly had play in it, but we found it to just be loose, and we tightened it.

But as of last night, I started to hear a faint rumbling noise from my left side, and it sort of grew louder as the day went on. Now tonight, since I don't have access to a lift, I road tested for a failed bearing by doing the swerve back and forth method, on a tight left turn it went from a low hum to a grinding noise. To my knowledge, that's probable cause of a bad wheel bearing? I am hoping some of you with more Porsche experience than me could shed some light on my issue. Along with give me an estimated expiration date on it, as I don't have access to my lift for another 2 weeks, it's a 62 mile drive and I daily drive this car every other day for College.

Use your jack to lift the suspected wheel and check for noise by turning the wheel and push and pull to see if there is play in the bearing. It was like this that I found play in one of my wheel bearings.
It's always a good idea to mention what the car is: transmission, year and model.

Sorry! first time posting, I'm just a lurker. I drive a 1999 Boxster Base 5spd MT

But I agree, it is a surefire way of diagnosing. I just don't have a jack at my disposal as it's all back home. won't make that mistake again :eek:

I was curious if anyone had similar experiences that involved failure outside of wheel bearing. Otherwise, it's looking like I'm borrowing a shop lift for a weekend.

It is easy to isolate which bearing is making noise by coasting downhill in neutral (with the engine off..) and swerving right to left, if the noise increases when torning right, then your left bearing is the culprit..

IMHO, you should replace both sided as the other wheel has the same wear as the one making the noise, it is a fairly straight forward job, however it is a BEAR of a job.. (if you use a sledge puller, borrowed from Autozone) good luck!