Wheel Bearings & Brake Interlock
 

My 2005' Mazda 3 has two bad habits; goes through wheel bearings and the stupid brake interlock.

I've got 85,000 miles, and I'm working my way around the car replacing wheel bearings. My rear right is now getting loud, but my question is how much should this cost? First time I had it done was an independant dealer. Cost $450, and they said it was because "the bearing was part of another component that had to be replaced". With the latest one starting to go bad, I tried an actual dealer, and they quoted $350. Another mechanic says he can do it for even less.

So, I'm confused as to who is telling me the truth and not skimping out on what should be replaced. The fact the dealership doesn't have the highest price leaves me scratching my head.

Next, does anybody have problems with their brake interlock when the weather changes temp? I have to beat on my brake pedal for five minutes every morning when it gets cold just to release my transmission. Getting old, but I don't even know what it's going to cost to fix it.

I think the wheel bearing is in a block, just unbolt it and you're all set. Though the bolts are hard to get to I don't think there's any other components that are part of that assembly. Looking quickly on carparts.com it looks like a $180 assembly - though the pic may not be 100% accurate to the car - though that's the normal situation, a stand alone bearing hub assembly that bolts on.
Should take an hour per wheel or so if you do it yourself.
I'd vote for the dealer, since they should know the vehicle the best - and if it's cheaper too.

The brake interlock is a solenoid that you should hear click at the shifter whenever you hit thhe brake pedal. I've got a manual so can't help too much, but there is usually a bypass button that you could use to disable the interlock part of it. Taking off the shifter cover and trying to move the shifter could show you where the solenoid is - could need some oil and you'd be fine.
Just beware if you have kids or anything that the shifter doesn't get bumped accidentally and go out of park.