Whining noise with acceleration

2006 PONTIAC GRAND PRIX
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CRISSYCK
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Noises problem 6 cyl Automatic 60000 miles

First off, I am very bad at taking care of my car, so all of the problems I'm asking about may or may not be related. Right now I need to have my breaks fixed and also, when sitting on a minor hill, I practically have to yank on it to get it into another gear.

On to my problems.

#1. My car is making a whining noise that, at first, I only heard during acceleration. Now it's gotten to where I can hear it at all times, but seems to sound more high pitch when I accelerate.

#2. When I turn my steering wheel for a sharp turn, it makes a sound like it needs to be "greased" or something and just sounds like it's struggling to turn.
Oct 23, 2008 at 6:39 AM
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MMPRINCE4000
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It sounds like the serpentine belt is bad I would start by replacing it to see if that does the tick. Here is a guide to help you.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-serpentine-belt

and

https://www.2carpros.com/diagrams/pontiac/grand-prix/2004


Please get back to us.

Cheers
Oct 23, 2008 at 7:26 AM
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MATT AND BETH
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Have you found resolution to your car making a whining noise? Does it sound as though the noise is coming through the speakers? And continues even after the car is turned off?

We are experiencing this issue with our 2006 Grand Prix. We have been in arguments with two different dealerships as they can't seem to fix the problem.

We take very good care of our cars - so I question if your not taking great care of your auto is the true issue.

Help! We are stuck with an annoying noisy car!
Dec 12, 2008 at 11:00 AM
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SPUDWISER
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I have a 1995 grand prix and i was having the same issue. Mine turned out to be a lose exhaust system up by the manifold. I replaced the flange and had them tighten the exhaust and it fixed the issue. I don't know if it will help you but it worked for me, and the flange only ran me about 15 bucks used.
Dec 13, 2008 at 8:26 PM
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RENTASQUID
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Our car (2004 G.P) made similar noises. The shop said that it was the rack and Pinion steering. They said it needed more fluid. They said it is leaking internally through a seal(I'm guessing into a CV boot). They filled the reservoir back up and the sound went away. They said that eventually the steering will fail.
Dec 17, 2008 at 4:23 PM
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KELSIEKAE04
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I have a 2004 Pontiac Grand prix GTP and it is making a whining noise under the hood. It also gets louder the harder I step on the gas. We have replaced the alternator so that is not the problem. we have started the car without the belts on and it doesn't make the noise anymore but if we just take of the belt that is on the supercharger it makes the noise. Were at a loss and just dont know what else to test.
May 1, 2017 at 8:34 PM (Merged)
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KELSIEKAE04
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Its not the power steering pump as it doesn't make the noise when I turn but it could possible be the pully on the pump. We already took the belt off the supercharger and tested it and the noise is still there so its not that. So the only options we have are alternator(new), Power steering pully since the pump is new, Tensioner (new) Water pump, Crank, and A/c. I really dont want to replace them all to figure our what it is, that will be expensive. Do you know of a way to test this to find which one it is? We have tried spraying WD40 on each of them seperately but it didn't work.
May 1, 2017 at 8:34 PM (Merged)
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CARADIODOC
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The power steering pumps are the most common cause, not from the pulley, but from the buzzing of the internal check valve. We have already had instances where rebuilt pumps are just as noisy at first but the buzzing dies down over time. You can verify that by listening with a stethoscope at the connection for the high pressure line where it leaves the pump. This is common enough that we don't even bother to diagnose the generators or water pumps. A quick poke with the stethoscope is all it takes.

That buzzing noise is a lot different than the squeak or chirp from the serpentine belt. Don't use any type of lubricants or anti-squeal sprays on those belts as road debris and dust will stick to it and make the squealing worse. To identify a belt squeal, dribble a little water on the smooth side of the belt while the engine is running and the noise is present. If the noise changes, suspect one of the pulleys is misaligned. If nothing was recently replaced, that means the spring-loaded tensioner pulley is the most common cause. The pivot wears and lets the entire arm sit crooked, then the belt has to slide sideways across it as it goes around it. That sets up the squeal.

If the noise was not there until after something was replaced, check that item to be sure it's mounted correctly. The belt should be perfectly inline along all of the pulleys. Look for one where the belt is off-center compared to the rest of them, typically by 1/8" or more.
May 1, 2017 at 8:34 PM (Merged)
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RACHMATT
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Noises problem
2006 Pontiac Grand Prix 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 75000 miles

I have a 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix and for the past couple of months I've noticed that when I acculate or turn the corners it whinings, it doesn't do it all the time but it's starting to get worse and it's really load.

Any ideas.

Thanks,
May 1, 2017 at 8:35 PM (Merged)
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MMPRINCE4000
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Have the front CV joints inspected for tears is boots/lubricant leaking, if you find anything they will need to be replaced.

Also inspect power steering pump/pressure hose and return hose for leaks, and check PS fluid level.
May 1, 2017 at 8:35 PM (Merged)
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RACHMATT
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How much does CV joints cost to repair. The PS fluid is good.
May 1, 2017 at 8:35 PM (Merged)
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WATERFALL37016
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Noises problem
2006 Pontiac Grand Prix 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 60000 miles

My vehicle has had issues that started near 60,000 miles. The car will make a high pitched whining noise with startup and slow accelration, then goes almost completely away during coasting. It was just happening once in a while and then became more and more apparent. I take very good care of my vehicle. I have also had past issues with steering. The steering wheel would give a thumping vibration while turning the wheel. I took it in several times and finally found a dealership to fix it. The tires on this car do not stay balanced either. I have had my car balanced three times since January and I still feel a vibration. I have been VERY disappointed with this vehicle purchase and will never purchase another GM car. The Grand Prix is nice to look at, but a let down as far as integrity. To other owners: I fee your pain!
May 1, 2017 at 8:35 PM (Merged)
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MMPRINCE4000
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Check fluid level in trans. with engine running, fill as needed.

The whining may be low fluid level in trans, or could be an assy. driven by the serpentine belt.

The alignment issue is most likely a failed front end component, ball joints, tie rods, bearing, control arm bushing etc.
May 1, 2017 at 8:35 PM (Merged)
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RICEJA
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My car is making a whining noise that sounds like it's coming from behind the engine on the driver's side. The noise happens under most conditions: in park, while accelerating, the only time it doesn't make the noise is when i put the car from park into drive but keep my foot on the brake. I was told it could be my transmission fluid filter so I recently got it changed but the noise is still there. It can't be a belt because they're on the other side of the engine.
May 1, 2017 at 8:35 PM (Merged)
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DOCFIXIT
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Maybe oil pump for trans
May 1, 2017 at 8:35 PM (Merged)
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MOONSHINE72
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Steering problem
2001 Pontiac Grand Prix 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 150000 miles

why is my car making a whining noise while driving?
May 1, 2017 at 8:35 PM (Merged)
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CRAIG2000
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[quote:617928e7df="moonshine72"]Steering problem
2001 Pontiac Grand Prix 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 150000 miles

why is my car making a whining noise while driving?[/quote:617928e7df]
If your car is supercharger equipped it is normal to hear a whine when you see the boost meter engage.
May 1, 2017 at 8:35 PM (Merged)
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EAGLE50
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I can hear it louder when I lean closer to the dash. So I think it is coming from under the hood, not rear end.
May 1, 2017 at 8:36 PM (Merged)
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FIXITMR
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alternator bearing noisy? or AC compressor bearing?
May 1, 2017 at 8:36 PM (Merged)
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I have a 2003 Grand Prix that just started a low whining sound when I accelerate at low speed. Appears to be getting a little worse each day. What could this be? I do not notice it being any worse when turning corners.
May 1, 2017 at 8:36 PM (Merged)
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Can you tell aprox where the noise is coming from? THe engine area, wheels, transmission...
May 1, 2017 at 8:36 PM (Merged)
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ZO6505
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Noises problem
2006 Pontiac Grand Prix 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 98000 miles

My car makes an awful noise everytime i turn the wheel. Its a loud whine and i don't know what i can do to fix it. Also after about 55 mph the whole car starts to shutter and wobble. Please let me know if i can fix it or do i need to take it to a professional. Thanks
May 1, 2017 at 8:36 PM (Merged)
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RASMATAZ
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Let the pros handle it -might be beyond your abilities and also lacking the special tools needed.
May 1, 2017 at 8:36 PM (Merged)
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KITTYBELLE
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48000 miles
v6
It is making a loud whining noise (like a loose belt almost). Now the steering wheel when I turn it makes a grinding sound.
May 1, 2017 at 8:36 PM (Merged)
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2CARPRO JACK
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Sounds like you are low on power steering fluid. Might want to top it off and look to see if you can see where it is leaking out of.
May 1, 2017 at 8:36 PM (Merged)
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PAUL LAWRENCE
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To keep an adequate amount of fluid in it has been cumbersome to say the least. money is tight as my failure to fix properly. i now have a whining sound that is evident right from start up. it gets louder as i accelerate from a stop
May 1, 2017 at 8:36 PM (Merged)
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RASMATAZ
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If its still leaking why don't you just replace or have it repaired-what's the problem here
May 1, 2017 at 8:36 PM (Merged)
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Noises problem
2004 Pontiac Grand Prix V8 Two Wheel Drive Automatic 93,000 miles

My car has been making a super loud whining noise when I push on the accelerator...it does this about 90% of the time. I've had a number of oil changes and am very suprised that no one has mentioned that I should have it looked at or anything. Any ideas?
May 1, 2017 at 8:36 PM (Merged)
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MMPRINCE4000
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I would look at the belt tensioner assy.
May 1, 2017 at 8:36 PM (Merged)
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GARY GENTRY
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As soon as I put car in gear it starts whining sound appears to come from the driver side and it whines the hole time it's in drive I can shift to neutral and whine quits.
May 1, 2017 at 8:37 PM (Merged)
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STRAILER
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Hello Gary,

This is a sign that the transmission fluid filter is plugged and needs to be replaced, Here is a guide that will give you an idea on how to get the problem fixed.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-service-an-automatic-transmission

Please let us know what happens.

Cheers, Ken

May 1, 2017 at 8:37 PM (Merged)
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JENNYNEAL58
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Steering problem
2001 Pontiac Grand Prix 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 150000 miles

I have a 2001 Grand Prix GTP Supercharged and since May 2009 I have had whining noise coming from the car. It is loudest inside the car. The history is: power steering line was replaced due to leak, system was flushed and refilled. Noise continued. Power steering pump has been replaced 4 different time with Delco parts, the rack and pinion has been replaced. The noise continues. The power steering was just flushed again today and GM power steeing fluid was put in (apparently the mechanic was using something else). The noise is still there when the steering wheel is turned left and right ... loudest when turning left. Any suggestions?

Thank you
Jenny Neal
May 1, 2017 at 8:39 PM (Merged)
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MHPAUTOS
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Hi there,

The power steering consist of only 3 main components, the pump, the rack and the oil lines, as you have mentioned the pump has been replaced 4 times, and the rack has been also replaced and the noise continues, i mentioned that this type of noise in my opinion is pump related but like you point out same noise and 4 pump whats the chances..... i feel that a rack will not in itself create this type of noise, but after thinking about this for a while, i am wondering if the pressure hose has partly de laminated internally and is creating a restriction which could cause this, i would be thinking that it would be the same both directions as we only have constant flow at this hose, my other concern is the wrong oil, has this done any damage to pump or rack seals and valves? was the incorrect oil used with each change of pump & rack?

Mark (mhpautos)
May 1, 2017 at 8:39 PM (Merged)
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JENNYNEAL58
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Hi:

The lines have not been changed to my knowledge and yes, the wrong oil was used with all pumps and the rack ... I am going to guess that my next step would be to have the lines changed to see if that does the trick, if not, then there is a possibility of having to change the pump and rack and pinion again ... correct?

Thank you so much!
Jenny

[quote:ec14f52949="mhpautos"]Hi there,

The power steering consist of only 3 main components, the pump, the rack and the oil lines, as you have mentioned the pump has been replaced 4 times, and the rack has been also replaced and the noise continues, i mentioned that this type of noise in my opinion is pump related but like you point out same noise and 4 pump whats the chances..... i feel that a rack will not in itself create this type of noise, but after thinking about this for a while, i am wondering if the pressure hose has partly de laminated internally and is creating a restriction which could cause this, i would be thinking that it would be the same both directions as we only have constant flow at this hose, my other concern is the wrong oil, has this done any damage to pump or rack seals and valves? was the incorrect oil used with each change of pump & rack?

Mark (mhpautos)[/quote:ec14f52949]
May 1, 2017 at 8:39 PM (Merged)
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MHPAUTOS
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Hi Jenny,

I have been re reading all these posts and something just struck me... in your first post you mention that the lines were changed already, now what i feel we really need to do first up to get to the bottom of this problem is definitely prove that the power steering is actually the origin of the noise, i have be singularly minded that this is the case but now i am not sure , so what we need to do is drive the car with the power steering belt removed, now this will be heavy steering until you get some road speed up, so my suggestion is to get a fairly strong male driver to do this for you, you won't need to go far as if the steering is at fault, you will not hear any noise even just turning one corner, is this an option open to you to prove the steering one way or the other?

Mark
May 1, 2017 at 8:39 PM (Merged)
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JENNYNEAL58
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[quote:6be978226e="mhpautos"]Hi Jenny,

I have been re reading all these posts and something just struck me... in your first post you mention that the lines were changed already, now what i feel we really need to do first up to get to the bottom of this problem is definitely prove that the power steering is actually the origin of the noise, i have be singularly minded that this is the case but now i am not sure , so what we need to do is drive the car with the power steering belt removed, now this will be heavy steering until you get some road speed up, so my suggestion is to get a fairly strong male driver to do this for you, you won't need to go far as if the steering is at fault, you will not hear any noise even just turning one corner, is this an option open to you to prove the steering one way or the other?

Mark[/quote:6be978226e]

Hi Mark:

Yes, that is an option ... I have a few friends that I can get to drive the car for me. I will let you know how this goes in a few days when I can catch up to them to have them try this.
Thank you!
Jenny
May 1, 2017 at 8:39 PM (Merged)
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TGOULD
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2004 Pontiac Grand Prix 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive 82000 miles
----------------------------------------------------------------
I have a GTP and when running it has a high pitched whining sound, like a tight rubber band.... as I put the gas down, it gets louder.
If anyones has any ideas..... if you do, is it easy to fix?
the car does not seem to have any less power or hesitations.
Thanks, Terry
May 1, 2017 at 8:39 PM (Merged)
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MERLIN2021
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sound like a squealing fan belt? Check he serpenine belt, and tensioner.
May 1, 2017 at 8:39 PM (Merged)
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PONTIACNEWBIE
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I had all the problems in my 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix mentioned above: Whining while turning or accelerating which seemed to be getting worse. By the time I found this forum and excitedly went to tell my hubby (the car guru of our home) that this seems to be a common problem with Pontiac vehicles and that the steering fluid system might be the problem, he was already way ahead of me under the car trying to determine if the steering fluid was leaking out of the pump or lines. He knew there had to be a leak because a few days ago, when he had suspected the issue was related to steering fluid being low and had topped it up, the noise seemed to disappear and I drove to work the next day in perfect silence; but this success was short-lived as the trip home was not as quiet. (Incidentally, the leak must happen when I am moving because there was no hint of any leakage where I park.)

My hubby found out that the leak was in the hose, evidenced by the clean piece of metal right under the hose (Yes, I got under the car too and spied the evidence.) On removing the cover (insulation?) of the hose, he saw a crack in the return hose. (Of course it had to be the one part that no auto shop in this area keeps in stock...and also the one that would be a real pain to replace!) I am attaching an image of the culprit (below), but here's a link to the image as well: https://ibb.co/TYZLKrK (The part where you see the break is where the crack was. It was not completed split like that; he cut it at that weak point in order to be able to make clean cuts on either end to remove this section.)

He decided to improvise and fix the problem with what he had on hand rather than wait for the not-so-cheap replacement hose from the factory. Since the return hose is not the pressure hose, he figured he could replace the damaged area with a rubber hose fastened to the rest of the hose with metal zip ties. It seems to have worked because my car is no longer making any noise as I drive, accelerate or turn corners.

So all those who said to look for a leak in the steering fluid system were right on the money.
Oct 6, 2019 at 8:02 PM
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KASEKENNY
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Hi,

Thanks for the update. I am sure that info will help others that have a similar issue. Thanks
Oct 7, 2019 at 2:39 PM