Car was back early as the coolant repair was done by cleaning thermostat housing outlet and hose (mostly corrosion), no new parts needed - hence came back early. Wheel bearing changed - the noise is still present and worse than ever (I think faulty wheel bearing was masking the problem somewhat). Gearbox specialist booked for Monday for replacement of bottom pinion bearing and top bearing (chance of successful repair is 90%) - I'll chance it as the reconditioned gearbox is 3 times as much
(and about 1/4 of the car's worth). Driving husband's Volvo tank (XC90) - hating every minute of it....
Will keep you posted of course...
Will keep you posted of course...