I just a full service - oil and all filters changed.  On picking up my car the mechanic noted a slight noise coming from the top of the left hand front suspension but said he couldn't locate the problem.  I drove away and noticed a definite creak / rattle from that area with every bump in the road and also when accelerating after gear change and breaking.  It was definitely not there before taking it in.  I understand the fuel filter is in that area so wonder if there is any reason something might have caused this issue during the filter change? 

I reviewed the dashcam footage and saw he was working in that area, including using a flashlight to look and and seemed to be getting annoyed about something.  This was just before restarting the car, which took the starter motor some time (a few goes for about 10 seconds each) I'm guessing to get all air bled out of the system.  Then later he was driving the car around the forecourt, accelerating and braking which looks like he was trying to identify the noise.  I called him back afterwards to ask and he says he had it up on the ramp as well but couldn't see anything obvious.  He suggested driving normally for now and note any changes, saying it is perfectly safe to drive.  We agreed I would take it back in to look at sometime soon.

I seems really strange that the noise appeared straight after this service.  I can't find much online or Youtube on the Mk 4 2ltr diesel fuel filter location but want to take a look myself as soon as I can.  Anyone heard of something similar or have any suggestions on things I could look for in there?  Only the other day I was thinking how smooth and quiet this car is!

Is it possible something was dropped in that area while the job was being done? The mechanic looking for it and failing might be what you saw on your dashcam

Yeah that is what I was wondering, but couldn't think what he could have left in there that would cause that kind of noise.  I had a look but nothing obvious so will just have to drive as-is and see if it disappears itself.  I suppose it could be the result of some diesel leak when filling the filter or spraying some cleaner that has made the suspension squeak but who knows.

The obvious candidates to be dropped would be either a fixing or tool/socket. But whatever might be in there seems to be proving hard to see unfortunately 

So after driving for a few weeks there is still a distinct creaking noise coming from the front end when I turn at low speed and/or come on or off the throttle in low gear (1st or 2nd).  There is no noise when turning the steering wheel with the car stationary or going over speed bumps in a straight line, or driving at A road / motorway speed which I guess is because I don't turn or increase/decrease speed enough to cause it. 

 

This feels to me like it is linked to a bushing or something connected to the drive shaft or steering mechanism?  Strange it started immediately after the service - it definitely wasn't there on the drive to the garage but was obvious when leaving.  I have the MOT equivalent booked for next week so will find out if it is serious and have arranged to go back to the garage the week after to let them take a look.  

 

Anyone have any ideas on what I can do to narrow this down myself to help work it out?