325 M Sport - Whirring sound upon starting

[Daytona]

Hi Guys,My car is now 18 months old and just this morning upon starting the engine, a loud whirring sound can be heard coming from the engine bay! It is definitely not the sound of a fan going at a higher speed, but more like a groan/grunt/whirring sound. Sorry hard to describe the sound!!After 10 minutes or so, it goes away. From what i experienced, it only happens on cold starts. Just wondering if you guys have experienced something similar?

 

[Schwepps]

I think it could be one of the belt pulleys or the belt tensioner, Daytona. Your unit is still under BSRI/warranty, so if it persists, just take it in to a dealer.

 

[Daytona]

Thanks Schwepps, I definitely did that as the sound was not going away.
Initial inspection revealed that steering oil was very low.
It had somehow leaked.
They took the car in for 3 days and ascertained that the leak was only due to a faulty hose!!!
Extremely dissapointing and shocked actually that such a new car can experience a leak!
Anyway, just some info for all fellow forumers in case you hear such a sound.
It sounded way major than what it turned out to be thank God!

 

[VKS]

Thanks for sharing this, Couldnt believe myself that a leaky steering assembly can make such a noise..

 

[Daytona]

Well, apparently there was hardly any steering fluid left to lubricate the column, hence the sound. Hope it is not common.