So this issue started yesterday. When I start in first gear (6MT), I hear a sort of whining noise below 1000 rpm. Once I get to the 1000 rpm mark, I can't hear it any more. I'm a bit confused as to what it is, possibly a belt I suppose, but I'll look into that when it's not dark out.

Also, when I'm coming to a stop (but not a full stop) and starting off again in second gear, I hear the same noise, once again while I'm below 1000 rpm. The car runs fine, and no other noises other than this whining below 1000 rpm. Does anyone know what this could be? I'm not entirely sure where it's coming from. Common sense makes me think it's the engine bay but then sometimes I feel like I hear it from the back.

Long Story Short: Whether I'm in 1st or 2nd gear, if I'm driving below 1000 rpm, I hear a whining noise. Once it get's up to and above 1000 rpm, noise is gone. Anyone have a clue?

 

alternator noise perhaps?

 

I'd have no idea. I recently changed my serpentine belt (maybe 2 months ago) and haven't heard this noise till now.

I had suspected that my alternator could be going bad, but I don't really have flickering lights or anything that stands out. Only issue I have is once in a long while, when I start my car at night the dash lights up except for the rpm side but then it lights up a few seconds later. Other than that, my driver side dome light shuts off by itself if my engine isn't running. Weird little things but I don't think those are the alternator.

I could try to get my alternator checked. Thanks for the suggestion.

 

Check it with a multi meter, it should be over 14 volts when running. 12 when the car is off and slightly less with the key turned to Accessory with the stereo and whatnot running.

 

have the alternator checked as mentioned at the parts store for free

 

supercharger? lol

 

I had this since I bought my car.
You probably have a bad alternator bearing/pulley making this noise. The alternator itself is probably fine.
I drove around about 70k miles with the noise without any issues. I recently changed it couple months ago when advance had their super deals going on.
I still have my old alternator and after having it bench tested at advance we confirmed it was just the pulley.

 

Thanks for the advice guys. I'll try and go to advance auto or pepboys to have them check it as soon as I get some spare time from school.

Thanks for sharing your experience kukx30de. At least I know it's most likely not a pressing issue.