V8V engine noise when cold

[Hillbilly75]

Hi all,

I have started noticing a whining noise when driving my v8v 4.3 when it is cold. The noise doesn't happen on fast idle on start up, or when low speed manoeuvring but when you start driving 30/40mph. Initially I was convinced it was coming from the gearbox, but then I revved it slightly in neutral and the noise increased in frequency in line with the RPM, so it has to be engine bay related. Once the car is warm after 3/4 miles or so, it goes completely. I check oil regularly and it is treated with care whilst warming up.

Anyone else had this?

[montecristo]

I have had such noises occasionally from cold. It hasn't led to anything bad.

All bets are off for Aston Martins "when cold". They are often clunky and bad-tempered; I've learned to ignore anything that happens in the first few minutes.

[cornerit]

I think it's a standard noise, isn't it the oil pump most of the time?

[marknash99]

Had something similar on another car I had, turned out to be the alternator bearings on their way out

[roughrider]

Dry sump system with cold oil.

[KarlFranz]

The noise you are describing comes from the pressure relief valve in the oil pump.There is a service bulletin to replace the part, which was made out of metal in most 4.3 engines, with a newer plastic design. If your car is under warranty, you might be able to get it replaced. However, if you have to pay for the repair yourself, you might as well just get used to the noise because the repair is very labor-intensive and consequently very expensive. You can help reduce the severity of the noise by making sure that the oil level is always topped up.