Hi everyone: I have an 09 justa.. sometimes when it's been cold and I start him up, i get a screech from the engine. very mechanical, almost grinding sound. It's briefs, 1 second, and it's not all the same tone/volume.

Any one else have this sound on start up? It can't be the timing chain noise since I don't have the S...??

 

I Have a Clubman S 3500 miles and I think i know what you aer talking about.
something like old car with bad timing belt. well not as bad as that but very similar. I am very interested in this thread.

 

Things like this should really be posted in the "Stock Problems/Issues" forum; it would probably get more attention (and therefore, answers) there.

That being said, wild guess here: based on your description of the noise (momentary at start-up), I'm thinking the starter isn't fully disengaging when the engine turns over. I would start by checking that.

Next thing I'm thinking is one of the pumps (e.g., water) isn't fully primed at start-up; sometimes when things like that occur, they will make screeching noises.

Good luck!

 

never thought of the starter holding too long. but yes, that's a great description.

 

I have the same sound on the 2010 non S. Had dealer hear it and they blew it off, Said it was normal for 2010 but the loaner was a 2010 and it was quiet. I thinks its the starter not disengaging. Louder and longer when started first time after long time shutdown. Seems to be getting worst. Car has just turn 2k.