Hi,

We have picked up our brand new replacement car this morning and the car is great except this one also has a similar noise when you turn the engine off.

Its like a slowing number of clunks (almost diesel engine sound but a bit more metallic).

It is coming from the gearbox area like the previous car.

If you hold the clutch pedal down as you turn the engine off it makes no noise.

What are the chances of two brand new cars having this fault?

Pointed it out to the dealer when we picked it up and he didn't say 'they are all like that in fact he was a little puzzled and I could tell he didn't think it was normal. He said to see how it goes and give him a ring next week.

The dealer tends to sell mostly autos and said they hadn't actually sold many manuals, so I am wandering if all the 6 speed manuals do this.

Can people with the 6 speed manual please check theirs and let me know if it is a trait of the car or a fault.

With the engine warm and the engine at idle, simply turn the engine off and listen for a short series of soft edged clunks. Most noticeable if you have the door open or windows open.

If your not sure if you hear it or not, try turning it off with the clutch pedal pressed down to see if you hear a difference.

We would really, really appreciate someone taking the time to try this and report back.

I cant believe we could get 2 faulty ones in a row, Especially as the first was manufactured in August 2004 and this one in February 2005.

Apart from that I love it to bits - the clutch is more progressive on the new one and the first to second gear change much smoother, nowhere near as notchy or obstructive as the previous car and this also seems to be helped by the fact that the throttle pickup doesn't seem to have the same on/off delay. Its as though there may be new mapping in the ECU in the newer manufactured car. In fact its a total joy to drive and only this noise is spoiling an otherwise fantastic car.

Would appreciate as much feedback from other 6 speed owners as possible - Cheers.

Andy