Clutch release/input shaft bearing... how long have I got, doc?

[tony_ack]

I can hear a whirring noise when moving off in 1st gear, and also when stationary, in neutral, with the clutch up. The noise disappears when I press the clutch down.

I suspect either the clutch release or input shaft bearing is at fault, but to be honest the noise isn't too bad - I only notice it when in traffic - and the clutch bites pretty low down with no sign of slipping. Therefore I don't really want to have to book it in to sort it out if I don't have to. I park on the street, and don't have a garage, so it's not really a job I can do myself.

I've had the noise since I got the car, and it's done almost 3000 miles since then. If I leave it, will I have any problems? If there will be problems, will I get any warning signs, such as the noise changing/getting louder? Or is it likely to completely fail at any moment?

Are there any temporary solutions to reduce the noise, maybe an oil additive or something?

[rubjonny]

the only bearing you can change easily is the release bearing, which is under the green cap on the end of the gearbox. you'll want to get a new cap too, and jack car up as high as possible so as to reduce the amount of oil lost.  if this doesnt fix it then its an internal box bearing, which would require an expensive strip down.  If you dont rag it too hard it should last a while longer, I put some fresh oil in either from VW or Redline MTL.