I would think that the bearing would have made some very distinct sounds indicating possible failure. I'm a firm believer of letting both of my Benz, '93 300E 129K miles and '01 E320 58K miles sit and run in the driveway every once in awhile as I walk around it with the hood open listening for any out of sort sounds. Also on the road, I'll turn the radio off and listen. Dennis

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....just drive'em!
'89 300TE White w/Blue, 152K SOLD!
'93 300E Blue w/Tan, 154K SOLD!
'01 E-320 4-Matic wagon, 130K
'67 Vette Conv. White w/Blue, 217,421K