I have a noticeable grinding noise for a second or so on start up of my 2006 2.0T with about 45K miles. It first occurred this winter when very cold (<-10F) on first start up. Then progressed to all cold weather start ups and now to all start ups independent of ambient temperature. Has anyone experienced a similar issue.

Thanks for any guidance.

 

My 2000 Jetta GLX did the same thing. At first in the cold, then it progressed to warmer weather. Apparently the starter is not pulling back in time causing the grinding sound on startup. It's a VW/Audi quirk. The dealer said to not worry, they've experienced cars that have done it for thousands of miles with no problem. I was told that a new $600 starter would fix the problem. There is a how to out there on the Jetta on fixing the noise yourself. You basicly have to remove the starter and lube some internal parts. Don't have my Jetta anymore, so I don't know if the starter and flywheel have self destructed yet.

 

Thanks B7. I had a sense that it was related to the starter. Since I am still under warranty I will take it in and see if they can resolve it. Unfortunately the dealer is 150 miles away.....