sastridge

many thanks xman, I'll be sure to give that a try.

Many thanks J.R. - That's given me a new line of inquiry that I'd not considered. I'll have to check if the car (my daughter's) has ABS or any other system that might fit your theory. I'll investigate and report back. Merci!

Hi everyone, hoping someone might have some experience / advice for a first-time poster.. 2004 MK1 Fabia 1.2 5 speed manual AZQ engine. A new problem has recently developed - when pulling away in 1st gear (or going uphill), a horrible grinding noise, sometimes leading to thumping noise, from the front passenger side of the car. The noise is intermittent - can go for days with no issue -, but seems worse when the car's warmed up. It only happens in 1st - I can't replicate it in any other gear. Engine mounts seem ok (& all replaced in the last 14 months) No play at the road wheel (3/9 or 12/6) No obvious suspension problems. No obvious transmission leaks, but I'll try to check the fluid level next. New clutch (home) fitted 2 1/2 years / 12,000 miles ago. The L/H driveshaft has been leaking a little grease where the inner joint bolts to the diff. I'm hoping its the driveshaft, but nervous that it's only happening in 1st gear - does this maybe point to a gearbox issue? Any help or advice would be appreciated before I lash out on a new driveshaft... Many thanks!