Hello- '99 A6 (2.8 quattro) 188k- Recently on start up only I get a squeal for 5-10 secs coming from front pass near air scoop (it is not the blower fan)- I have done searches on this topic most reveal a tranny issue- this is not the noise I am referring- When I turn off HVAC system it stops- The weather in the NE has been in the 40's- I am pointing to the electronic fan but want a way test or fix or replace?- Any tips or suggestions on what this could be?

This forum has been great- I have recently replaced Control Arms, Timing Belt, Tranny Fluid, Diff Fluids,- Car runs strong and my next fix after this issue will be my Struts (rookie mistake- I should have completed when replacing control arm- live and learn) and ABS Module are next- I plan to keep car until it leaves me on road- I have owned it 9 yrs with 29k (off lease)-

Tx to all and Happy Holidays!