Grinding noise please help

Bourgeois0424 · Post by **Bourgeois0424** » 17 Aug 2017, 08:49

Hello there. Car is a 97 Volvo 850 GLT 225000 miles, automatic. About a month ago I noticed a grinding noise when starting the car but only lasted a second or 2 and would immediately go away if I revved it up a bit. Well now the grinding sound is constant and does it whether in park, drive or reverse. If I'm looking at the engine, it seems to be coming from the right side underneath the engine somewhere. It happened on the way home and the car drove just like normal with the grinding, even at high RPM. Obviously not driving it now. Have been told it could be the starter and/or flexplate. Can upload a video a bit later after work. Any suggestions on what it could be?

Klausc · Post by **Klausc** » 17 Aug 2017, 11:28

The right side is the passenger side, the starter is left of center. If it is coming from the right side, check the lower engine mount. If it fails, the crank pulley could be touching the subframe.

Might as well check the top engine mount while the hood is up.

Bourgeois0424 · Post by **Bourgeois0424** » 17 Aug 2017, 13:00

it is coming from more of the left side. I said if I'm looking at the engine it's comin from the right. Should've said the noise sounds like it's coming more from the driver side of the engine, excuse my stupidity lol Will check the mounts nonetheless

Bourgeois0424 · Post by **Bourgeois0424** » 17 Aug 2017, 13:02

And to be more specific it is definitely a metal on metal loud grinding sound.

Klausc · Post by **Klausc** » 17 Aug 2017, 13:17

Starter solenoid not disengaging completely. Do not drive it this way. Either a 'new' starter, or you could remove the solenoid, clean and lube it with a silicone based grease.

If the starter wasn't buried, it could be checked with a light tap of a hammer on the solenoid while running. I don't suggest you do that!

Bourgeois0424 · Post by **Bourgeois0424** » 17 Aug 2017, 13:29

Luckily it was only driven home a few blocks like this and has only been started 2-3 times to try and diagnose. Will throw in a new starter this weekend and see if that gets rid of the grinding. Thanks

Post by **kahl** » 17 Aug 2017, 13:41

A starter may grind, but a flex plate may rattle. Are we talking rattle or grinding sounds? Heat shields between the engine and fire wall can make a racket if they become loose. If the starter pinion is staying engaged with the fly wheel you should be able to reach down to the starter and feel any interference. Any interference with be telegraphed through the starter. I would cup the bottom of the starter staying away from any electrical connections.

Bourgeois0424 · Post by **Bourgeois0424** » 17 Aug 2017, 14:02

Just grinding sounds, no rattling or knocking. I will try that when I'm home this evening, thanks for the advice.

Post by **misha** » 17 Aug 2017, 14:29

Headlight wiper motor or headlight adjuster motor?

Post by **BEJinFbk** » 17 Aug 2017, 23:38

misha wrote: 17 Aug 2017, 14:29 Headlight wiper motor or headlight adjuster motor?

I don't think anybody in the US has the headlight adjusters...
That and no P80 AWD's with manual transmissions. ( not stock, anyway )

Cruel, Cruel Swedes!