Whirring-Like Noise at Low Speeds - Sounds like Driveline...
 

In the last couple of days I have a new whirring sort of sound when the clutch is engaged and beginning to accelerate. With clutch disengaged (pedal in) I don't hear it. At higher speeds above 25-30+ or with heavy acceleration simply do not hear it but likely due to speed and engine noise. Any one have a similar problem? It would seem to me to be driveline related and seems to be middle of car or behind. No leaks, car has 72k miles, and in excellent running condition. It is a 2002 Turbo all factory besides aftermarket recirculation valves. Any thoughts or similar stories appreciated.

as much as it pains me to say it. many of these cars in miles travelled are approaching the level of usage which begins to manifest the design compromises built into the inherent dual functionality of the car.

you may in fact have the beginnings of bearing "whine" which will become more and more common for many owners as the cars age, and as the internal trans bearings dry out, which they can,.. and do.

hopefully it's something else and less labor intensive in your case, but that would do nothing to diminish the point i am making. good luck w it.

Powering steering pump check valve?

A slightly bent input shaft will sound like that - pretty much the only way to bend one is with a drag style launch and the 996TT's are pretty tough and do not bend very easily. It was common on the 993TT's.

Ok guys thank you for the input. It has gotten louder just this morning. I am going to inspect the front driveshaft and CVs and if nothing noticeable I may remove the front driveshaft. Noise is only coming when in gear.


I have heard of issues with Michelin PS2s and front ends on these cars of which I installed for the first time about 11k ago. These PS2s have always been noisy and don't know if there is any legitimacy to that tire setup myth causing driveline issues...


Any other ideas are appreciated. Thanks!

With confidence I can say the noise isn't emanating from a front Michelin tire . barring some major mfg defect. I run many sets of ps2s no noticeable noise.
I imagine you've ruled out a bad wheel bearing? While in gear suggests driveline "trans related" but maybe its a torn CV !?. Slaloming the car should rule.out wheel bearing.

The tires have gotten louder but alignment is good and no suspension issues so I agree.


Wheel bearing is ruled out. Inspected front end and both CV boots are torn. Also, pulled driveshaft and sound remains - again when in gear. Hard to identify where the sound is originating. Either way front end needs CVs etc, and I'll have to locate origin of the sound.


Anything in the clutch that would tick along? The whirring is now coupled more of a tick, tick, etc.

I think it is a throw-out bearing or transmission issue as all gears the noise is present... will see tomorrow. Thanks for the input.

I've never had a bad t/out bearing or really any clutch noise. so my only bad experience with sounds like that are bad wheel bearing and trans bearings.

after a cpl drives i'm sure if it is the trans you'd "sense" it. good luck with the diagnosis. trans work is a bullet to bite for sure. just went thru it early this year.

Yes, pretty sure transmission but will get a second opinion before I move forward. :/ Clutch is in good working condition and relatively recent. I'll provide update once I know.


What was wrong with you transmission?

I think a growl/vibration at low RPM under load is usually the sign of a worn pinion bearing in the trans.

bearings dried out. cheap to fix other than all the labor.

That's my bent at the moment. Will get second opinion today.

I would agree with the others above. It sounds like a transmission bearing going out.
I would check your trans fluid level, see where that's at then drain the fluid and inspect the magnet on the plug for metal and look for metallic debris in the oil as its draining.

How many miles are on the car?

My trans had to be rebuilt around the 90k mark

Pulled the drain plug today and metal shavings covering drain plug. Likely pinion shaft bearing along with possible other damage. Will have to crack case next. Car has 72,000 miles.