I want to spend some time trying to minimalise the transmission of engine noise and vibration through to the cabin. This comes about after I used my dealers loan car whilst mine was being serviced.

 

The loan car was an absolute delight to drive, with the engine seemingly 'decoupled' from engine bay compartment - no vibrations, and the engine seemed very sweet and free running indeed.

 

Mine on the other hand has always been a bit 'harsh' particularly under load at fairly low revs. (It growls!!)

Just looked quickly under the bonnet, to find pipes that are jammed against the body panels instead of being stood off etc.  The clutch cable is rattling against a shield (lower centre rear). Thats just a 5 minute look around. It feels like the whole engine is not 'at rest' within its mountings - that somehow there is a physical force that prevents a clean line installation position. Trade or ex trade people will immediately know what I am describing here. As an example, when in the trade, I often used to correct exhaust systems fitted by well intentioned owners that had the whole system tensioned against the natural 'at rest' position of the engine etc.

I would be interested to hear from anyone who has experienced this, and has found an answer to this annoyance.

My 1.2 86 TSI has only done 6500 miles, so not I would think due for engine mount problems at this stage

Thanks in advance, your thoughts would be appreciated..

Hello 2nd, yes...you will need to deal with each issue as you find it. Like you, I've spent years in the trade and came across this lots of times. A bit of time spent doing some minor stuff can produce good results. Those pipes jammed against the bulkhead you could maybe take a look at and fit them into clips fitted to the bulkhead but without any tension on them. Look at the cables and other pipes too. A quick look under the car can show if the exhaust is hung right, but you may need to release a bracket or two to determine if its under tension. Not easy to tell otherwise. You may then have to undo a clamp if it is to reposition the system. Then hook up the brackets properly. It's fun...NOT! But can be worthwhile. Good luck!