helicopter?!

first check is wheel bearings, especially front

I cant see anything unusual about the wheel barings, no odd noises or excessive wheel movement or anything when i rock or spin the wheels a bit. What would I be looking for if they were only slightly worn/damaged because as far as i can tell they are ok?

having the car safely jacked up, engine running, in top gear so that the wheels are spinning will show up noisy bearings a treat.

noisy bearings (which is what I would guess you have) do not necessarily have any excess play. spinning a driven wheel by hand fast enough to show noise is difficult or impossible, the non driven wheels is easy, but you need to be aware of how they should sound.

mrcheerful

Look up. Check for helicopter!

will it be safe for me to run the thing in top gear on axle stands? doesnt look to safe... If not, then how do i do that safely? Sorry im a bit new to all this so am prone to looking like a bit of a muppet.

John

Do you have any windows open at the time?

I did actually check for helicopters when i was on the M4 going up a slight hill towards cardiff, i wasn't pleased when i realised i was the helicopter!

nope, no windows open. Imagine a hamster doing 60mph in its wheel, but theres a small dent in the wheel that creates a noise every time it rotates, just a small 'whuum'. Its that noise. Do bearings squeak as well? Ive noticed ocasional squeaking too. When the hamster slows down, generally in second gear, turning slowly, it squeaks in protest at having had to run so fast. Do you think vauxhall have hamster power?