Hi all.

I expect this topic has been done many, many times, but I wonder if someone would give me some advice.....

I have had a knocking noise from the front of my Focus 1.8 zetec for around two years now, becoming noisier and noisier. I have had four separate mechanics investigate it, but none have succeeded in correctly identifying the cause, and it's really getting annoying now!

Here's what's been done.......

Garage #1:

Thorough unspection and test drive, but unable to find any faults. Recommended waiting until MOT to see if it flagged anything up.

Garage #2:

This second garage carried out the MOT, but no relevant fault was highlighted. I asked the mechanic if he'd investigate the knocking noise. He did - crow bar was in full use on all the usual suspects of steering and suspension.

In the end he held his hands up and couldn't identify the culprit. He suggested replacing the most common cause on a Focus - the control arm links (or could have been the anti-roll bar links ?).

He replaced these, but no fix. Cost £50.

Garage #3:

Unable to identify the fault. Was extremely determined to fix it, as didn't want to be beaten. After having vehicle for a whole day, he said the only thing he could see that was showing signs of wear was the steering rack. He replaced it for me. Cost £330.

No fix!!

Garage #4:

Car went in for a Cambelt and Cat change. I asked if they would look at the knocking noise. Once again, no idea what was causing it.


Now, this noise is pretty bad. It's not just me being picky. It's now embarrassing to take people in the car, lest they think it's dangerous!

Here's a bit of detail about the noise....

• When I go over large bumps (such as speed bumps) it often doesn't make the noise, but it's more on smaller bumps.
• It's sometimes a single knock, but usually a series of knocks.
• It seems to be on the driver's side more than anything
• It isn't brought on by turning corners
• It rarely does it at speed
• I can produce the noise at will, by putting the car into the wrong gear. (I know that will always make the car rumble, but this is a knocking noise).
• I have no gear change problems
• No jerking from the engine or gearbox
• Car drives fantastic apart from this noise.

I have read somewhere that it could be the rear engine mount? I inspected this just now, and to my untrained eye it seemed to be okay. It certainly wasn't loose, but I was able to move it 3 - 4 mm with a crowbar.

Sorry for the rambling first post, I just want to get this sorted out.

Any help will be very welcome and greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.