Diagnose Noise under load - Mk3 Automatic 97 GL

Hi all,

Just got a Mk3 97 GL Automatic (1595cc petrol) and drives really well, but have now noticed a whining / almost high-pitched rattling noice coming from the car whenever i put throttle / load on. Doesnt seem to happen in neutral when revving, seems to get worse downhills (i think but will test again), but if i come off the gas and let it coast along the noise goes, only to return when going back on the throttle.

My first guess is transmission / drive related and after trying to scour forums seems to have a few common things to look for eg bearings.

Also considered exhaust / centrebox as it is a bit 'bassy' (think i remember seeing on the receipts that it was fitted with a 2.0 vw exhaust) and its also possible that the noise under load could be something reverberating in exhaust system.

I am going to be doing some more driving tonight to try and pinpoint a bit better, but would really appreciate any tips as to what to test, what to listen for etc?

We have a 3 month mechanical / electrical warranty from the seller and if it is something to do with transmission i'd like to get it investigated + sorted sooner rather than later, but want to be reasonably sure before I start down that road.

Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated!!!

I would check the level of the final drive oil, if it is too high and pours out of the level hole then the seal between the two sections of the transmission has failed and ATF is getting into the final drive which can make it whine but after draining and refilling with the correct oil they normally quieten down, looked after like this every service, they can go on for years.

thanks mate, gearbox / transmission oil seems to be a common place to start, although it seems to be in all gears, not just final drive (not sure if that makes any difference?)

What do you think final drive means?

I means the differential assembly where all the gears lead to….:D

yes, blonde moment!