Hi all,

I have a 54 plate punto active sport with 57k miles

Today after driving about 30 miles I first heard the noise. It has only happened while doing less that 30mph in 1st-3rd gear. It's like a squeal that lasts for 20 seconds, it's loud enough for people to notice to my embarrassment. After 20 seconds it winds down to nothing, I get no loss of power or control. It's happened three times today in total over about 50 miles.

Worried that this could be something dangerous as I do a lot of miles commuting in the week for my work placement. I have searched the forum but I have not found anything that matches my issue. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

video?

I'll try to get one but it's difficult as it only lasts a short time and it only happens when I'm driving. I could be wrong on the location of the noise, it's a bit like a hiss towards the end as if air coming out and stopping.

most likely the clutch release bearing being noisy.

Scudmonkey said:

most likely the clutch release bearing being noisy.

Click to expand...

Would this mean I need a clutch replacement?

Scudmonkey said:

most likely the clutch release bearing being noisy.

Click to expand...

Just listened to a video of this noise, it's not the same. The noise occurs whether the clutch is pressed or not, just continual for 20 secs.

Most frequently squeals are belts. Check the tension of the alternator belt or remove it altogether and go for a quick spin around the block. If it isn't the belt it could be an alternator bearing. Timing belts can squeal as well if the tension is off. It's probably unlikely as they tend not to go off once set properly. If a replacement wasn't done right it can squeal, generally when cold and accelerating through low gears.
While you're at it check the gearbox oil level.