2006 V8V - clutch release bearing

[aMb]

Hi all - car has suddenly developed a whining noise when releasing the clutch in 1st gear or reverse, which I'm fairly certain is the clutch release bearing.

I've had a search on the forum and it doesn't seem a common issue - has anyone else had this begin to fail without having to replace the clutch?

Car is on 40,000 miles now. I'm fairly certain the clutch was replaced recently before I got the car at 32,000 miles, however this is something I will check tomorrow.

I assume that replacing the bearing will still involve the 8-10 hours labour required for a clutch change?

I'm based close to Fleet so would welcome any suggestions on where to take it please. Having a read through the forums Trinity Engineering seem to have a good reputation and are about 25 miles from me so plan to take it there, but would welcome any further input!

Cheers

[ds2000]

If its a clutch release bearing you'll be able to hear it when the car is in neutral and the clutch pedal "up" - the sound should vanish when you engage the clutch.

Most of the time people tolerate a slightly noisy bearing as its just not worth replacing it on its own. As you say, its the same labour -probably 20 minutes as a full clutch replacement.

[snuffy]

I had that on a previous car a few years ago. I took it to the dealer, they had a quick listen and said "That's your release bearing. Don't bother about it - it will get changed when you come to change your clutch". So I never did ( bother, that is ).