When pressing the gas pedal on my 98 Volvo S70 GLT it makes a whining noise which increases by revving up the engine. What is this caused by? Volvo shop suggested replacing Pulley, Idler, Tensioner, Timing Belt and Drive belt and noise should go away. Also, wanted to know if a faulty power steering pump could be the cause? Or are there any other culprits?

Also, when in the morning starting the car a sound similar to the jet engine can be heard winding up and then winding down similar to shutting off the jet engine. I am told that this is the sound of Air Pump which never has functioned in this manner. Any suggestions?

 

Try to isolate the source. Open the hood and have someone else operate the throttle while you listen with a mechanic's stethoscope or hose.

If you're uncomfortable near the pulleys+ while the engine is running, take the serpentine belt off to inspect everything driven by it. Spin and wobble each by hand.

 

Hi Volvo World, welcome to VolvoForums. The first thing you need to do is read the New 850 Owner thread in the 850 section.

Then, undo the serpentine belt and see if you still hear the noise. If so, the Volvo mechanic is likely correct and your idler or tensioner roller is about to fail and will toss your timing belt which will destroy the motor. You can read my timing belt info here:
Timing belt replacement instructions on a 1997 Volvo 960

Matter of fact, I wouldn't even suggest starting the car if you don't know the timing belt history. If it hasn't been changed in the past 70,000 miles it needs to be done ASAP. If you're not going to do it yourself have it towed to the shop to have it done or pay someone from here $200+ parts to do it. If you hear the noise with the serpentine belt off, and the belt was changed recently, they likely DID NOT change the rollers and the rollers need to be changed ASAP, with a new belt. A locked up roller will weaken the newer belt.

 

Thanks RSPI for your explanation and advice. I had a an independant Volvo Shop replace the Timing belt, Pulley and tensioner as well as water pump for about $730. All is well so far!