Hi - yesterday my SF 2.4L '04 scared the **** out of me. I started the engine and immediately for 6 to 8 sec. there was this high-pitched (as if whistling) sound coming from right-side (i.e. I am sitting INSIDE the car). I opened the bonnet and checked, there's nothing lodged there, etc. I re-started the engine and sound again happened. It's basically somewhere UNDERNEATH the coolant /wind-shield wiper fluid tank.
The sound DISAPPEARED after 3 to 4 re-starts.
The sound SOMETIMES happen, even when I am driving, all of a sudden - for 2 to 3 sec.
Today morning, even when doing a cold-start, the sound didn't happen. So, I am not sure if I'll be able to replicate it.
Finally, there's no issues with steering for I checked and verified wheels were straight when happened.

Ok, I think I nailed the cause but don't know WHY this happens and (2) what to do now. Basically, it seems whenever I switch my AC on, the whinning sound happens for a quick 6 to 7 sec and then dies off. I wonder what went wrong and why this is happening? (2) I am still under the 60k warranty - can i use the same at dealer? If so, what should I really say, so that they don't wriggle-wriggle themselves out of it? A friend told me they might "force" me to take the full rehaul (exchange/flush) of refrigerant and thus demand $150.00 for it or alternatively - they might just spray some fluids, etc. to make the sound go away for few days/weeks.

tighten/replace your drive belts

The belts have been replaced only 20 days back. Please advice.

the work should be under warranty if its only 20 days old. id take your santy back and tell them the problem. its either the wrong size belt or it wasnt tightened to spec. sounds like the belt is too loose and takes 6 or 7 seconds to catch up with the rotation of the engine...hence it needs tightened. same for when it happens with the ac turning on, the ac compressor clutch spins freely until you engage it by turning on the ac.... takes 6 or 7 seconds for the belt to grab and start turning the ac compressor. if this isnt fixed, youll burn up your belt and be stranded when you least expect it. once your belt breaks then the vehicles battery wont be charged by the alternator and your dead in the water. its basically like tennis shoes screeching on a tennis court. burning the belt makes it brittle and more succeptable to failing and youll be in the same situation soon.

This post has been edited by hinge817: Aug 22 2008, 09:40 AM

The problem is now resolved. The new timing belts are fine and SF has auto tensioner. The issue was the AC compressor was not clinging on to the belt initially. After some time , i.e. now - the belt's settled in and now there aren't any more noises.