When I start the car in the morning, California, I get this moaning sound the first 6/7 times I turn the wheel, then it goes away within a minute. Any ideas as to what this may be?. Is it an impending problem?

JC

 

Is the fluid level low?

 

I just experienced a similar issue and found my fluid was low but only after it was obvious. Even after filling to normal level, it quieted down but still seems louder than my other cars. Don't know how may miles you got but mine is at 240K. for now I'm hoping its not a big deal and it is typical of 98 T5's