I'll start by saying that I've searched and searched for similar symptoms and have found nothing. Our 05 MC 5 sp is making a grinding noise at start up. It only lasts a few seconds after you turn the key. It's coming from the engine compartment, between the battery and engine. It happens only and every time you start it. Not just cold starts and not while idling or accelerating. I'm a DIYer and if it's an easy fix I'd like to tackle it myself, isn't that we are all here. Thanks if you can help us out!! If needed I can get a clip of the noise.

 

It's the starter motor.

Replacing it might necessitate the removal of the subframe.

 

My 04 R53 just started making what sounds like same grinding noise just when starting the car...is yours getting any worse? Did you have to replace starter?

 

Very Possible it could be the starter, also could be a chip on the flywheel

 

Ouch....that would not be good. Just like jettaway03 the grinding only happens when I start the car for a second or two after engine starts and never happens at any other times.

 

Always go with the simple solution first, more then not I say it is the Starter, but I have seen my fair share of flywheels chipped or with what we call a high spot on it

 

Thanks for your advice JRoca. Appreciate it! I had a new clutch and flywheel installed within past year...hope it's not flywheel..I will have my friend/mechanic give it a listen tonight..he will be installing rear control arms to go with lowering springs so I can adjust camber...

 

Was the Flywheel you installed a Lighten one?

 

Yes I have ACT flywheel streetlite as well as Stage 3 sprung clutch. The OEM clutch glazed and was slipping. The noise only happens after engine starts as if starter wasn't pulling back right away. I don';t hear this noise at any other times. Starter might be sticking for a split second or two?