2004 Saturn Ion High pitched drone while under power

2004 SATURN ION
52,873 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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GAMCCART
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I have a 2004 Saturn Ion, manual transmission, with approx 53,000 miles. We recently went thru a cold snap during which my wife noticed that there was a high pitched drone while the car was under power. I then drove the car and heard the same thing. I checked the tire pressure to make sure it wasn't anythin g to do with that but that didn't correct the problem. Nosie can only be heard inside the car and only when the engine is under power. Pls advise possible causes.
Jan 31, 2009 at 5:02 AM
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2CARPRO JACK
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Does the noise change with vehicle speed or engine speed? does the noise change or go away when the car is warmed up?
Feb 2, 2009 at 7:56 AM
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GAMCCART
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Drone becomes louder when increasing speed. Noise is constant drone when cruising speed on highway is reached. Noise doesn't change or go away when car is warmed up. Noise is separate and distinct from engine noise which can be heard separately and sounds normal. (I'm very glad of that as it means repairs, if necessary, shouldn't be all that expensive) What do you think it is?

PS - thanks for taking the time to answer
Feb 2, 2009 at 6:47 PM
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2CARPRO JACK
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Does it still have the original tires on it? There are some bulletins about the original tires having a nylon overlay, which could cause noise/vibration
Feb 2, 2009 at 8:25 PM
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GAMCCART
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No. The tires are fairly new. What about belts or pumps? Should I be concerned about them? Would they be making the noise?
Feb 3, 2009 at 8:35 PM
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2CARPRO JACK
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No, a belt or pump will change with engine speed, not vehicle speed.Wheel bearings will make noise and increase with speed like you describe.
Feb 3, 2009 at 11:49 PM