I have a 1998 Maxima SE. The engine whine is present at start-up and get louder when you give it gas. Does anyone know what is causing this whining noise?

 

power steering pump possibly... Or could be someting else involving the belt driven area.

 

Check your belts, and anything that attaches to it.

 

Have your altenator checked out, you may quailify for a replacement from the dealer...call them up & give them your vin #

 

^^Didn't they stop doing that a while ago.........

 

You would be correct. I am looking to buy a 1998 Q45 and it has the same alternator recall as the Max. Three dealers said the free replacement had expired.

 

You maybe be right Hector, didn't know the recall had expired!

 

Me no Hexor............

 

Oops...My badd...didn't check who posted quote...

 

bearings in the A/C compressor can lead to a similar whine. i'm dealing with that right now. I had to drive in some serious rain and my splash guards on that side are all busted. Since then, i have the sound. i plan to bypass the compressor with a 36" belt for now and deal with all that in the spring.

 

have the same exact problem but mine whines some days and some days doesnt

 

Alternator would be my guess. But after awhile that should identify itself because the battery will die(mine did). I had a whine and it was the alternator. I had the battery tested and Sears said good battery.

 

Your engine is a wuss, and hence it whines when it has to work...

Seriously now, I have had that problem with improper belt tension causing that, check both belts.