I have started to hear a strange noise coming from the right side of the engine compartment when the engine first starts up. It is a high pitch noise that will last for about 30-40 seconds, and then when the noise decides to stop you hear it slow down and stop. It sounds like something electrical and spinning. Almost like what an electrical drill sounds like (but smaller and higher pitched.) And when the sound stops, its like how it sounds when you take your finger of the drill's trigger.

When I hear the noise I can change the pitch by moving the steering wheel. Has anyone else heard of this or know what it is?

 

It's the air pump mine is loud on cold mornings, our cars don't have a power steering pump. It probably changes pitch when you move the wheel because the p/s is electronic as is the air pump, so when you turn the wheel the voltage changes that goes to each.

 

i agree with bose, sounds like the air pump.

 

3rd that.

 

delete that.

 

Dondo giggle.

 

Thanks for the response, and it has been since it's been really cold that I've heard it.

What is the air pump for?

 

I htink it helps clear out the engine to prevent flooding?

 

Seriously, an air pump? Don't listen to these guys, they are screwing with you. Just top of your power steering fluid and the sound will go away.

 

Tanker...Next time I see you, I'll start my car when it's cold and you can put your head in the hood to try to find the sound.

 

it's for emissions.