Noticed a new problem in conjuction with CEL coming on -- the engine chirps (not a regular rhythm) at idle, seems to be unrelated to RPM. Orangecrush I believe had a similar issue that turned out to be the water pump. Sounds like a bearing, but I haven't been able to isolate it. ('07, about 56K miles) Noticed it while at a drive-thru and thought "geez, I hope that's not my car". It was.

CEL light came on last month, turned out to be a sticky VANOS solenoid. WHen that was replaced the engine actually performed better -- I'd not noticed any degradation I guess because it was gradual.

Service is scheduled but thought I'd mention it here in case anyone's experienced the same thing.

 

Is the chirp still there after the solenoid got replaced? If so, I'm guessing it's still the waterpump. I only heard mine when I was sitting in the drive thru.

Sounds like a baby cricket intermittently chirping. If I revved the engine ever so slightly, it would go away.

I'd tell you to check with your dealer but like most, you'll probably hear...


"hmmmmm, we've never heard of anyone with that problem before"

"we were unable to duplicate the problem"

"you're using the wrong fuel"

"you shouldn't have modded your car by installing those hood stripes"

Of course, there are many other reasons why they can't or won't work on it but those are usually the most popular.




Mark

 

Oh, it's out of warranty so getting it fixed should be no problem.

 

Posting to remind myself to post back w/resolution, it goes in tomorrow. The sound is like someone squeaking a balloon, and there's also a regular whistly-chirp going on a the same time.

 

Well, it turns out the turbo is overpressuring and there's a leak. I didn't remember exactly where (I wanna say from the intake vent, I just can't remember -- I was using my laptop and working in the waiting area so I was mentally distracted).

Parts are on order and I'm in a loaner Clubman (non-S, automatic), which is an interesting change from an MCS.

I can't say I like the big black stripe due to the rear doors, but the Harmon Kardon audio system beats the pants off the (Alpine?) one they were selling in '07. Regular suspension, so there's more body roll than I'm used to. Leatherette is OK, but I miss the leather.

It'll be fun to drive for a day or two for sure.