X type 2.2d Estate sport. I have vibration only under power ( not when coasting) at around 50mph and above. It is quite severe. Shaking steering wheel. I had wheels balanced today. Still there. I also noticed a noisy clunk when I change gear especially when I put it into reverse and start reversing. It happens going forward too after each gear shift. From what I have read ( I am no mechanic) it might be a universal joint that is causing both things? Any advice??? Also I understand on this car you cannot replace the u joint as the drive shaft comes as a sealed unit. Is this true? The transmission noise is a loud clicking, minor clunking. Many many thanks. Patrick

Hi Pat and Welcome to the Club,

I have no first hand experience of the X Type but I do understand the UJ is fully integrated to the drive shaft and cannot be replaced independently. The symptoms you're reporting could be due to wear in the Drive Shaft UJ but there are other potential causes that cannot be discounted without close inspection. Given that you may be uncomfortable checking the drive train out for yourself I would strongly suggest you get a qualified mechanic to look at the car as a matter of urgency. I'm sure I do not need to tell you that failures in the drive train can produce catastrophic results - there are any number of stories of 'pole-vaulting' cars or the drive shaft being forced into the cabin - so you should probably keep the car off the road until its checked over.

There are many others in the club who will be able to provide specific advice that may be of help, I hope, but in the meantime be safe.

Keep us posted.

Cheers,

Steve