Too much road noise & steering wobble

[SmeggyEddie91]

Hi folks,
Got a 96 Corsa 1.2, 55k on the clock.
Couple of months ago road noise increased noticably in the middle of a drive. It isnt dependant on engine speed or gear selected but entirely down to road speed. Im not sure which side its coming from. Checked all wheels but no apparent noise when jacked up nor any play. Hasnt got any worse so not done anything about it.
Last week however I noticed that there is occasional wobbly feedback from the steering wheel which is worrying!!!
Jacked the front up again yesterday and still no play on the wheels but you can move the steering arm marginally in and out on both sides - is this normal?
So im thinking it could be a problem with the steering rack or, considering the noise too maybe a damaged drive shaft? I reckon I will have to take it into a garage but dont fancy a hefty bill so would much rather have a go myself but at least need to diagnose the problem first. Any ideas gratefully received. Cheers guys,
Andy

[johnny]

Have youchecked the tyres for wear look for cracks in the wall and roughness of the tyre,

How much play is there? The isnt the best handling car tbh the steering is vague at best when standard,

Get a pry bar and check all bushes for play if they move much there done

When does the shaking happen ?

[SmeggyEddie91]

Hi Johnny,
The shaking is noticable at low speeds, maybe up to about 30-40mph which is when the road noise becomes noticeable.
I know the handling isnt the best anyway but the shaking is new. I was pulled over the other week as the copper thought id taken a corner too wide & wondered if I was drunk!!
I'll check the tyres again & bushes but what do you think of the drive shaft theory? Could that exolain noise & wobble? Cheers
Andy

[johnny]

Dont think it would be the driveshaft tbh driveshaft normally works or doesnt you dont really get a middle with it if you know what mean lol

My quess would be a track rod end is gone

[pdrpaul]

as johnny says track rod ends mate! Ur steering will especialy feel loose when going over speed bumps etc. Easy fix mate! May need ur tracking done after u fit em tho.

[SmeggyEddie91]

Cheers guys. Replaced both sides and problem sorted = happy Corsa Driver!!