Metallic whine on winter cold starts

[Vaidhy]

So with winter storm Jacob on its way to the Northeast, we had a colder than usual morning temperature (24 F) today. As I started the car, I heard a weird metallic whine/screech from the car, just as it was firing up. I have had the car for three winters now and I have seen colder temperatures but this is the first winter I am hearing this sound. I heard the same thing a couple of weeks ago, also on a cold 20s morning. Has anyone ever faced the same situation or have any idea what it could be? I drive a 2009 3.8 sedan with barely over 90k miles.

 

[johnny3fingers]

Starter struggling?

 

[EdP]

So with winter storm Jacob on its way to the Northeast, we had a colder than usual morning temperature (24 F) today. As I started the car, I heard a weird metallic whine/screech from the car, just as it was firing up. I have had the car for three winters now and I have seen colder temperatures but this is the first winter I am hearing this sound. I heard the same thing a couple of weeks ago, also on a cold 20s morning. Has anyone ever faced the same situation or have any idea what it could be? I drive a 2009 3.8 sedan with barely over 90k miles.

Could be a belt whine or idler pulley bearing, alternator bearing. Once started do you still hear it? Enough time to stick your head under the hood?

Has the serpentine belt ever been changed? This may be a good time to do it and check out what spins freely and what binds.

 

[Vaidhy]

@johnny3fingers that's kinda what I thought.

@EdP Once started, I don't hear it. It lasts just a second when you hear the starter going before the car revs up. Tomorrow is also slated to be a cold day so will try asking my friend to start the car when I have the hood open. I don't think the serpentine belt has been changed. I'm the second owner and I got it with about 70k miles.

 

[Vaidhy]

So I stuck my head in the hood and had my friend start the car, I could hear the sound come from near the serpentine belt (I think). It lasts just a moment after the starter kicks in so having a hard time confirming. Also, happens only when temperature is below freezing. Was thinking of waiting until my next oil change in a month but might just take it to my mechanic this week and find out what is amiss.