Dan, you're a legend mate. At the very least your reply has made me laugh aloud, plus alleviated some of the pain in my wallet and arse from this whole fricken adventure.

Yup...I foolishly thought that by taking the car to the official place entrusted, and indeed appointed, by its manufacturer that I would receive a stirling service from its band of highly trained, courteous and caring staff.... I feel so dirty, used and cheated!

Anyway, back to the info...
The problem occurs whether the car is hot or cold if that helps. Earlier Captain Charisma (he heads up the dealership's "service" department) did mention that they would check the linkages on Monday before returning to his "we may have to strip the box" routine.

It's a shame, as the bloke who mans the Parts Department is polite, knowledgeable and very organised. Shame that whenever I deal with the two guys on the service team I can't help but hear "Thunder and Blazes" in the back of my head!!!!

I'll try the idea you mentioned. Thank you very much again for your help. This is one of the most helpful car forums I've used!