Tex735

About 5 days ago, I noticed a very strange sound coming from outside my car. It sounded like a big, pissed off bird squawking. I'm GUESSING that it could be a belt, but I am not sure. I have heard belts sqeek before, and this just doesn't sound quite like what I have heard before. It is very loud and won't happen predictably. I heard it as my wife was getting in the car while the engine was running. It is ear-piercing and only gave two squeeks and then all quiet for about 30 seconds and then it did it again. The car was in park, engine running and I wasn't touching the steering wheel. I got out and popped the hood to see if I could locate it. It happened just as I got the hood open and then wouldn't repeat, so I couldn't find out where it was coming from. I'm pretty baffled on this one. I know if I take it to the service dept., they are going to tell me that they couldn't replicate the problem (as usual). Has anyone else had a squeeking belt that can tell me if that might be the culprit on my car?

Thanks!!

jbsapphire

Happened to me (high pitched squeal) when was when I was cruising 50kmh, thought it was the car on the other lane, turned out to be mine. Replaced the tensioner and problem solved. Good luck

baadaaboo

My guess is... the emission system.

Whenever the fuel vaporized to a point that is greater then 1 bar, the valve opens. The vacuum start sucking the vaporized fuel that creates the noise you heard. In your case, idling in hot Texas climate gonna get angry birds in your car.

Tex735

So, is that something I sould worry about? I am supposed to get an apt. for some sunroof adjustment and seal replacement soon. Should I inform them of this or is it normal?

Thanks!

Tex735

Stopped by the dealer today... Turns out that the culprit is the air conditioner tensioner pulley. They told me that the part was $135 plus 1.5 hours labor. That comes out to about $300!!! Holy CRAP!! Well, thank goodness for RealOEM.com!! The part plus shipping was a flat $60. There is only one bolt that holds that thing on and I'm pretty sure that I can work a ratchet. Problem should be solved in about a week! Thanks for the posts!

DRANGED

Glad you got it figured out and saved some $$$

za3879

The other day - it was raining VERY hard out here in MI and now my car is making a wildly loud noise like an angry gang of birds ready to gangbang on someone.
Sometimes it happens at idle is gone on revs past 3500 rpm, and other times (after a short drive) it only comes between 1500 and 3500 rpm and not at idle at the light.

I'm afraid to take it to the dealer, as they will probably say i need all types of stuff replaced. You think this is the same thing? Is it recommended to take a BMW to a regular shop? Any input is appreciated :\