Strange Noise Right After Start

[llll1l1ll]

Hey y'all,

There's a strange sound right after the starter disengages when the engine catches. It's like a grind sound - maybe even more like a metallic thump - but it's really quick. I don't think it's a stuck starter solenoid (but it could be). It's consistent every time. It seems to coincide with the oil pressure light, although that might just be coincidental. For the record, the oil level is good, although it's about due for a change.

Anybody ever experience a similar sound?

[danewilson77]

Mmmm....is audio out of the question?

Sent from Williamsburg, VA USA

[telijah]

The armature could just be coming back too slowly but consistently, which would be why it seems to coincide with the oil light...? Which I would think mean either the starter solenoid could be going bad, or weak battery?

[llll1l1ll]

I keep the radios off and the volume all the way down when starting. Same thing with the HVAC.

Weak battery is not out of the question. It's stock and the car has a good amount of mileage on it (91,5xx).

I can definitely try to get an audio sample later tonight (if I remember). I'll start looking in to getting a new battery, as well.

[jsfbmw]

I had a similar experience with that type of sound (along with a brief vibration) a few months ago. This was of big concern, as you said, since it seems that something wasn't disengaging when it should. I asked around what others thought it could be. Most suggested starter and related mechanicals.

However, one person asked an interesting question. He asked what gasoline I used and said that lower octane could cause an initial slower turning of the engine. Seemed unlikely. I had cheaped out and went to an independent gas station a few times. I went back to BP Silver - 89 (I know, I should use premium), and the problem went away. Coincidence? Who knows, but it's been six months and all is normal.

[llll1l1ll]

Hmm... I usually use the highest available in this area, which is 91 (or 93 I can never remember). I usually stick with Shell gas. I'm not getting a vibration, though.

I think I'm actually going to remember to post the video when I take it.

[llll1l1ll]

Okay, I think I may have found the noise. I'm really embarrassed to admit it.





I think it's just the noise when I left off the clutch in neutral and the gears mesh. I'm not positive, though, and I'll update if I find another instance.