Teaching her to sleep again

Since she was about 3 months old, my little girl has slept quite well thru the night - up until 2 weeks ago or so that is.
We have followed the same routine (most nights) for many months now - at around 8pm or so we change her nappy; feed her and place her in her cot (which has been in her room for over 2 months now); I read her a bedtime story, kiss her good night, put her mobile on and leave the room. She used to fall asleep by herself a little while later.
We also used to use a SafeTsleep but she wriggled too much so took that out.
In the last 2 weeks or so that has all turned to custard as she screams the moment we put her in her cot! I have taken her to our GP who has ruled out any (obvious) health issues and she certanly calms down quickly once we pick her up.
The one thing that seems to work like a charm is taking her for a ride in the car - she falls asleep in minutes and then stays asleep when we move her back to her cot. Once she's asleep, she sleeps thru the night.
We have been advised to try the CIO method but I totally hate doing that! We have tried to give her a bath as part of the bedtime routine and although she's more relaxed, it does not always work.
Has anyone experienced this and how have you solved it?

We also had to use the CIO method. It is really hard but in the long run it's so worth it (IMO). Hope you can work something out soon

We did CIO as well. Once you can see that they are just playing you (stopping as soon as you pick them up) and you know every other possible need has been met, then I think its appropriate. You can always try the 'softer' methods tho - like going in every few minutes and pat her but not picking her up, staying in her room and moving further away.... Does she go off to sleep ok during the day?

I was thinking the same as Janine, that she was overstimulated before sleep. Like if we read Daniel a story after his bottle he wouldn't go to sleep. I also wonder about the mobile too.. I find Daniel sleeps best when there is absolutely nothing interesting after his feed.

I'm not a fan of CIO but wanted to hear some opnions and get more options. Many ppl have recommended CIO IRL incl Plunket but I just can't bring myself to do it.
We tried feeding her to sleep tonight, an earlier bed time and then I cuddled her until she was asleep - worked tonight but will see tomorrow. No story no nothing.
Thanks for the replies