General Noise on start up

[Adam1984]

Hello,

So this noise appeared when I started the car up about this time last year, but then come January it stopped and has never happend again until last week when the weather was starting to get cold again.

People on another site are saying it sounds like the starter motor, or an alternator bearing/clutch.

Anyone know, and how can I test what it is, as nothing is coming up as an EML or on Fiat MES.

Thanks

 

[quotethepigeon]

I've had that noise for two years.

Worse when cold.

Two mechanics have said it's a dirty starter motor....not worth replacing.

So far so good.

 

[KPat]

It's a dry starter motor gear shaft. To fix it you need to remove the starter motor and oil or light grease the shaft. Or just put up with the noise in cold weather.

 

[Adam1984]

It's a dry starter motor gear shaft. To fix it you need to remove the starter motor and oil or light grease the shaft. Or just put up with the noise in cold weather.

Or instead of cleaning it. Maybe just get a new one. I read they only last about 40,000 miles.

Also had a bit of white smoke come from bonnet area of car this morning when engine had been running...