My bearing job was the smoothest experience w/ a Subaru I have EVER had to date. In fact, that entire day went EXACTLY as planned, which is a new experience to me :-P Anyway, here's what transpired:

 

Having run into several mechanic shops, and getting the same "we won't do the 'hard' part for you, you're taking our hours..." BS, I checked at a place my friend recommended, called Classic Imports in New Buffalo, MI. I called and asked about having a bearing pressed out ( & new one in), and the rep said "Sure! come by around 5 and we'll take care of it and charge you AS LITTLE AS POSSIBLE." Not ONLY did they charge me bottom dollar, but while my hub was in their excellent care, the rep, Don, showed me around their garage and storage area, containing some very nice Alfa Romeo's, a race-ready Mini, OLD Lincolns, Jags, and so on. There was even a 97 Outback in there having work done. I took one look at it and said "Head Gaskets." Don said, "Yep. Warped the block too." OUCH!!! Anyway, I swear it was one of the BEST experiences I have EVER had going to a mechanic. Now I recommend them to everyone else that needs work done on an import!

The guy I use is top notch, albeit expensive. But I've never had a problem with anything he's touched and I've got 3 subies with over 100K on each. You get what you pay for.

They charged me for ~1/2 hour worth of work, coming out to about $28. Not bad for having a bearing pressed out, and a new one pressed in. I could have gone to a machine shop, but in the long run, I would trust someone who works on cars daily, vs. going to a machine shop.

The only good experience I've had with a good mechanic is myself

I haven't found an honest mechanic yet. I dread getting my car inspected every year---always trying to rip me off!