High Pitch Noise when starting cold car (2008 with auto xmission)

[Jerrys2008AstraAuto]

My friend (who was outside my car) heard a high pitch intermittent noise (like a whistle or siren) when I started my car in the morning.  It seems to last up to about 4 minutes, but the noise is just short 10 to 30 seconds bursts.  In cold weather (less than 30 degrees), the noise is louder.  If I have the radio on, I won't hear it inside the car. Once the engine is warmed up, I don't hear it.  It's not the belts.

I took it to Saturn service, and they heard the noise and could not identify it.  They do not think it is a problem. They had me start up another 2008 Astra on their lot and that car made the same noise.

Any one know what I am talking about ?

[Robor007]

My friend (who was outside my car) heard a high pitch intermittent noise (like a whistle or siren) when I started my car in the morning.  It seems to last up to about 4 minutes, but the noise is just short 10 to 30 seconds bursts.  In cold weather (less than 30 degrees), the noise is louder.  If I have the radio on, I won't hear it inside the car. Once the engine is warmed up, I don't hear it.  It's not the belts.

I took it to Saturn service, and they heard the noise and could not identify it.  They do not think it is a problem. They had me start up another 2008 Astra on their lot and that car made the same noise.

Any one know what I am talking about ?

Hehe...  So they don't know what it is but they don't *think* it's a problem?  That's reassuring!   

[j0n]

It's your fuel pump priming. Every EFI vehicle does it. When starting you should always put the key to the "on" position and wait for the fuel pump to finish priming, THEN start it.

[Robor007]

It's your fuel pump priming. Every EFI vehicle does it. When starting you should always put the key to the "on" position and wait for the fuel pump to finish priming, THEN start it.

I haven't heard the pump on my Astra.  On my VW it was quite pronounced but not the Astra.  I'll have to pay attention and see if I can hear it next time I remember while starting.

[RjION]

Robor .......... did you find the source of the noise?