Help wanted please - I am hearing a low persistent mechanical rumble from my 2005 Fabia 1.9TDi particularly when cruising at 45 - 60 mph in 5th, and less apparent, but still there, at around 40 in 4th. It is not noticeable in the lower gears and not there under acceleration or on the over-run.

Yesterday I discovered that with a front seat passenger it goes away completely. With the passenger sitting behind the driver it is back again.

This morning I found on a winding 45 - 50mph road that it increased on left-handers, lifting the weight off the nearside, and reduced on right-handers, which put extra weight on the nearside.

So it seems it should be something to do with the near side transmission - any suggestions gratefully received.

offside wheelbearing knackered, id guess a rear

I would say its wheel bearing as well.