Axle Shaft problems of the 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass

Both front wheel bearing failed within a two-day period. Checked with mechanic who informed us that wheel bearing failure is very common on olds Cutlass & chevy malibu for 1997/1998 -- nearly always happening within 4000 miles after warranty expiration. Be advised, this was my mother's car and is currently a part of her estate. We were in the process of trying to sell the car when the failures occurred.