Droning noise - S2

stevep2000 · Dec 7, 2006

Getting a random 'droning' noise from front of car, seems to relate to revs to some degree but not directly, and isn't constant. Found similar reports on Rennlist that was thought originate from the oil pressure relief valve - anyone have any experience of this over here? Oil pressure is fine - do I need to be worried?

Guest · Dec 7, 2006

I was getting a similar noise and i was certain it was engine related. It wasn't constant, I'd put the throttle down and there it would be, release and it was gone. So i was a bit worried.
However, on an unrelated problem i had the back of the car up on axle stands and noticed how wobbley (For want of a better word) one of the wheels was. Upon investigating i found the hub nut was insufficiantly tightened. Tightened it and the noise has totally vanished. So you might want to check that out, maybe wheel bearings aswell? Just something to look for, not saying for defo that's what it is though.

Indi9xx · Dec 7, 2006

I would not expect you to hear the oil pressure relief valve when driving.

I would almost certainly expect it to be a wheel bearing, or possibly drive belt related.

TTM · Dec 7, 2006

Alternator bearing on its way out ?
PAS pump erratically running dry ? Do you have constant power steering ?

zcacogp · Dec 8, 2006

Does it vary with engine speed or road speed?

This will be the first step towards identifying and solving the problem.

Oli.

stevep2000 · Dec 8, 2006

Link to the Rennlist post with similar symptoms
http://forums.rennlist.com/rennforums/showthread.php?t=264495&highlight=oil+pressure+valve+noise
Also mentions a Technical bulletin, suggesting it may be a known problem?
Only happens in a relatively narrow rpm band, although the band seems to move higher as the engine warms up, which does seem to support some 'fluid' related cause. Must admit I originally assumed it may be PAS pump, as it will do the usual singing sometimes when parking, but this particular noise isn't related to steering effort, or road speed come to that. It's definitely related to rpm, raises slightly in pitch with revs, but not directly proportional if that makes sense? Usually has disappeared by 3k. Am also getting a little vibration, nothing too much, but assumed it's unrelated as doesn't correspond with the noise - another thought was if the exhaust side mount was collapsed, would it cause something to touch that transmitted vibrations / harmonics?
In every other respect she's running great, so hopefully nothing too serious but don't want it to become so!

Alpine · Dec 8, 2006

Steve

I have this problem too. It comes and goes for no reason, but is a worry. There is a droning noice and increased vibration through the accelerator pedal. If you get to the bottom of it I would be grateful if you'd let me know.