Creaking-ish noise around 3,00RPM?

[Hrimfaxi]

Recently just discovered a curious noise hah..
Happens around 3,000rpm when lifting off (To change gear, for example) But if I do it quite lightly/slow, it doesn't happen.
It sounds like a quick creak/vibration and I think it's from the driver's side of the engine bay.

I first thought it may be the starter motor, but sometimes happens when turning left?! And only left! Power steering?

However, there is no other signs of trouble - engine pulls strongly and sounds healthy. As i say, if I take it easy, there's no noise at all and all is normal.

I know trying to describe a noise via typing is a bit tricky.

Any opinions welcome.

[Hongkongfooi]

Transmission shunt? A lot of scoobs have a bit of this mine included

[Hrimfaxi]

Thanks for your reply.
Hmmm doesn't feel like it, there's no jolting or anything else to accompany the noise, all perfectly smooth.

[BIG"E"]

Heat shield round the down pipe ??

[Hrimfaxi]

Hmm the mystery continues..
I'll add that the creak sometimes happens 3-4 seconds after startup? I'm getting sure it's power steering related... ?

It's not effecting the running of the car as far as I know, I'm just keen to know where it's coming from! I'm used to classic Minis, where a new noise would come about most weeks haha, so normally gets hunted down fast.