I didn't drive my car for about a week. On first start-up after this time - there was a little squeal from inside the engine bay right on intial start-up. I assumed it was a belt. But the noise has become louder and longer since then every time I start-up. And it doesn't sound like a loose belt anymore. More like metal on metal. Someone told me it was probably my starter about to die. Anyone had any experience with this?

 

I had the same problem when I got my z6 running. It is sick-loud! it's coming from the drivers side of the engine. But as soon as the car warms up a bit it stops. I was told that it could be the balancer or the water pump. Not sure yet what it is exactly though. still trying to figure it out.

 

yeah exactly! it sounds like the car is screaming. it scares me sometimes when i forget about it. pls. let me know if you figure it out. Anyone else?

 

It's the water pump...I'm almost certain of it...I had an old accord, and it did that a lot...it still warmed up alright, but when it was hot outside...it would tend to overheat on long trips. I never figured it out until later...but yeah...it's the water pump.

 

this noise, could be the alternator belt... i have a little screech if the cars been sitting for a long time. and people say its the belt that needs to be tightend.

 

yah its the alternator belt.....tighten it or put a bar of soap on it while its running and it will stop.
ggod luck