Rasping noise when accelerating, along with reduced MPG!?

[JaminDub]

Hi guys. Previously posted in the garage section about this, but just noticed the reduced mpg figures i've been getting. The rasping, metallic noise is only when I accelerate, but it's all the time. Even when I start up first thing in the morning, when it's freezing cold!! I've had it for about a week now and my mpg has gone from around 34/35 to 27/28, doing exactly the same routes and drives as before.

Had it checked at a garage and they blamed on the k&n filter making a sucking in noise, but I'm just not happy with that!! It sounds far to metallic for it to be air. Anyone else experience something similar? Been told pinking is an option, although it shouldn't really happen on a mk3?? It's a 1996 16v. Oh - recently took the air intake off, could it be anything to to with that? Gonna put the air intake back on, then if nothing changes, will put the old filter back on, but wanted to avoid the hassle of having to do that, as i do love the filter noise!! Any help/suggestions are welcome.

[Lewism3]

Exhaust related?

I know the CAT shield come loose and/or the fixings rust away. This normally just makes a sound at certain revs? Any ideas where the noise is coming from?

[bunter]

my whole car vibrated really bad when my exhaust shield fittings rusted away, ended up taking it off altogether

[JaminDub]

That was the first thing the mechanic thought when I took him out for a spin in it, he said 'exhaust' straight away, and I must admit - it does sound exhaust related at first hearing. But, he got it up on the ramp, checked the exhaust over and said it was all fine. He would've/should've noticed the exhaust shield/cat shield right?! Is there any way i can check those myself without getting it up on a ramp?

[Lewism3]

If you wait until the exhaust is completely cold, be careful they get bloody hot!!! You can lean under the car and give it a tap. You'll soon know if its lose. Otherwise when stationary rev the car gently and with the door open look underneath. If its the shield you will certainly hear it!!!

[JaminDub]

Thanks for the advice Lewism3. Will give it a try at lunch and report back!!

[bunter]

yeah those shields are a very easy spot, no other sound like them on a mk3!!

[JaminDub]

Thanks for your input too Bunter, much appreciated  Am on my way down to the car park now to have a butchers...

[bunter]

let us know how you get on

[JaminDub]

Right... had a look at my car. It's def an exhaust problem. Checked under car for any obvious loose parts, etc. Nothing to be seen. Then started her up, had a good listen. Got out under the back of the car whilst it was still running and there is an obvious small rattle towards the end of the exhaust. Sounds like something is rattling around inside the exhaust!! there is no obvious signs of wear from the outside, but what do i do now?! Pi$$ed off with the garage for not spotting it tbh, but they didn't charge me so musn't grumble. Taking it back up there tomorrow for another look. Anyone had something like this before??