Since the new engine core went in, I've had progressively more and more noise coming from the front. It happens only when I'm parking, or at parking speeds (<5 kph), and it doesn't matter if I'm turning left or right. I'd describe it best as a low pitched rubbing noise, like a metal-on-rubber or metal-on-plastic noise. There is no effect on the steering weight or effort. Oddly, it happens more when the road surfaces are wet. I haven't been able to isolate it to either the front left or right steering apparatus.

I don't know what they needed to move or take out when the motor was replaced. However, the noise didn't start RIGHT after the motor was replaced - it started probably within four weeks.

Searched, to no avail. Comments most certainly welcome.

Update: The problem got worse over the next few weeks. The service department took the steering column apart at the next service call, and found an issue with "friction" in the "steering column". I take it from some technical digging around that there was a plastic bushing that was sticking. Some lubrication and time later, the problem is solved.

I think I have the same problem with mine. It's getting worse.