When I start my 98 S70 GLT (147K miles) after sitting for the day or overnight, I hear a mid-pitched noise, slightly metallic-sounding (but not 100% metallic), almost a whining that gets higher in pitch with engine RPM. I believe it's coming from the driver's side of the engine compartment. This only occurs between 1500-2200 RPM AFTER using the steering before the engine is up to normal operating temperature. Once the engine is warm, the noise goes away.

To simplify: I start the cold engine, no noise. Turn the steering wheel to back out, I hear a rubbery kind of noise during initial steering input and then between 1500-2200 RPM, I hear the whining noise. Once the engine is warm, no more noise.

All fluids are topped off and the power steering rack was replaced about 5K miles ago. I've taken the car into my Volvo mechanic, but can't recreate the sound for him because the engine isn't cold.

Has anyone else had a problem like this? Is something big about to break on me?

Thanks in advance for any insight you all might have for me!

 

could be the air pump, exaclty how long does it stay on for? a few minutes?

 

2-4 minutes I would estimate. Just until the engine temp gauge starts to move up into it's normal operating position.

 

When my air pump was going, and finally went, I would start the car cold, start to go it would make some bad noise, that would increase with speed then suddenly just go away. It wont do it when its warm sicne the air pump doesnt go on if the engine is warm. The good news is that if it is the air pump, you can still drive the car, the noise will stop once it finally breaks. You will need to replace it before emissions sicne the car will run dirty for 30 seconds to a minute which will make you fail.

 

About how much does an air pump replacement cost, if you don't mind??

 

Where I live, its a good $700, But fortunatly I was able to pick up a used air pump and will put it in myself, making teh cost to me only $60. Go on ebay and look for a used one or your local volvo wrecking yard.

 

Hey thanks so much for your help. I'll look into getting this replaced.

 

Erie used Volvo parts is where I got my Air Pump and you should also get the valve. I don't think you need the resistor on the 98 because it is up by the fuse box. If you search V70 or S70 you should find instructions on how to do the job. Very easy to do yourself. The air pump is underneath the battery.