high pitched sound when starting car

[camryowner25]

I occasionally hear a high pitched noise when starting my 98 Camry which lasts for approximately 10-20 seconds. The engine vibrates a bit more when this happens and I also hear a faint rattling sound. If I turn off the ignition when I hear the sound, the sound and vibration continues for a few seconds even though the ignition has been turned off. The car drives normally though and I do not hear any strange noises when driving at any time. The only known problem that I have with my car is a power steering pump leak. Could the sound be coming from the power steering pump? Or is there some other explanation for the sound? Since the sound only happens occasionally and the car drives normally, I am stumped. If anyone has has any suggestions on what could be causing it, please post.

[Mike Gerber]

From your description of the sound, it could be a belt slipping. It could be the power steering belt. Check the power steering belt for the proper tension and also check the underside of the belt for being glazed. Tighten the belt if it is loose. Replace the belt if it is glazed.

Mike

[hawkeye]

Fuel pump issue maybe?

[Eye8Pussies]

how loud is the whining? if it's REALLY loud, coming from the engine bay, and metallic, it could be the solenoid in your starter giving up the ghost and leaving it engaged on your fly/flexwheel


if it's a quiet whining and more from the rear of the car, I'm going with the fuel pump

[KiDGiB]

I would say its the belt also, you can also get some belt dressing to spray on your belts to keep it from squealing.