And now for my next question......... my car 2009 1.25 zetec seems to be developing an Intrusive droning noise which I'm fairly sure wasn't there when I bought it. It becomes most noticable at about 45mph but is loudest at 50mph. It is not related to engine speed and is still there even if I change to neutral. I'm fairly sure it's not tyre related because it's particularly intrusive on smooth new tarmac where tyre roar is minimal. The noise does not vary going around corners as I would expect if wheel bearings were failing (but it is that type of noise). There is no Knock-on-lock that I would expect with CV joint failure. Could it be the diff.?, or maybe transmission problem?

The car is still under warranty but I'm anticipating being told that "they all sound like that". Presumably they don't?

Ideas anyone?

Thanks

does the noise fade above 50, or remain consistent?

does the noise fade above 50, or remain consistent?

It's less intrusive but I think that's probably because the pitch gets higher as you go faster. It's still there.

Can it be heard at idle??? Had my alternator belt renewed as slipping (noise from L/H side engine bay).

No it's not that. It's not related to engine speed.

Swapped the wheels front to back today but the noise is still there. Sounds like a noisy bearing but from where I don't know. Sound is from the front left of the car. I can't feel any play in the wheel bearings though. Could the diff be on it's way out?

Took it back to Ford today and the mechanic quickly diagnosed a worn front left wheel bearing. Very poor after only 10,000 miles. Mechanic reckons it's very unusual though.

i had this problem couple of years ago with my astra sport hatch, sold it cuz i couldnt figure it out