Rattling steering wheel - 2007 Estate

[sgould]

My steering wheel vibrates and rattles quite fiercely at idle.  Idle speed is OK.  Steering wheel adjustment is tight.  The vibration stops once the engine speed rises.  The exhaust is booming on the motorway. I cant see anything touching the steering rack.  I was thinking engine mounts, butthey also look OK.  Any thoughts?

[carrera]

Does the vibration change with steering wheel position

Seems a strange one, how about putting a jack under the engine with a wooden block to spread the load to see if raising the engine changes the transmission of vibration. Exhaust booming does also perhaps suggest exhaust is in contact with the body, suggesting a failed engine mount

Does the front gearbox > subframe mount look in decent condition

[sgould]

I've had a quick look and feel of the engine mounts and they look OK.  I think that I will have to leave it to Joe at the garage as I will be very busy in the next couple of weeks, and there's bank holiday weekend away with the grandchildren.

I was also wondering if there's an issue with the balance shaft/chain, but I have no experience of that, so not sure if there are any symptoms other than failure.

[sgould]

No progress. Lots of family issues getting in the way & Joe is on holiday.  Also SWMBO has shingles and needs attention?