Transmission/ wheel bearing noise in a Caravelle

My Volkswagen Caravelle TDI (167,000 miles) has developed a noise when driving. It sounds like a transmission whine and starts at 20mph and increases in proportion to road speed. If the steering wheel is moved slightly to the right it diminishes noticeably. My garage said it's wheel bearings but (despite using a stethoscope) they can't find which one and there is no play in either. It's just come back from France and is very loud. I don't have confidence in the wheel bearing theory - any suggestions? It's had 2 cam belts and a new clutch during its life and been a great vehicle.

Asked on 25 August 2012 by salmon

Answered by Honest John

If experienced mechanics can't source this by listening to it then it's expecting a lot for us to pinpoint it. Wheel bearings is likely. But could also be the diff as well as the transmission bearings.

Tags: unexplained noises technical issues

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