I have a 1999 maxima currently 92k miles
Problem - when cold starting there is a funny sound almost like a grinding sound. Only lasts about 1 second. It is not a squeeling sound from the belt. Engine starts up right away without problems, just the sound sometimes but that is new.

What kind of problem could that be? From what I've read it could be timing chain tensioner or the starter or the alternator. Is it worth replacing timing chain tensioner? I would be taking it to a mechanic.

I bought the car about 8 months ago with 86k miles on it.
All services are currently done such as brake fluid flush, power steering flush, oil change, radiator flush, transmission flush.
I have also replaced belts, radiator hoses,air filter, new brakes, new tires, new shocks/struts. I had an oil leak that was repaired. New belt tensioner, charcoal filter canister replaced because I could smell fuel and canister was full of gas and just replaced knock sensor because of code and hesitation when driving from complete stop.

I have also read that igniton coils go bad too. Any advice on what the problem/sound could be and what the cost is to have it fixed and is it worth it.

Sound on start is only problem. Drives really smooth, shifts well, no shudder or shakes.

 

I'll bet on the starter if the noise is right after you let go of the key.

The timing chain wouldn't make a grinding noise, it is more like a rattle. Alternators usually make a high pitch squeal or a rumbling and they don't stop until the engine is turned off.

 

I'd put my money on the starter. The timing stuff is made to last the life of the car. My car has 261k miles and the timing chain/tensioners are fine.

It wouldn't be the alternator because it is spinning the whole time the car is running, and if it was the pully system, you would hear it turning the car off and on every start up.

The starter will make noise if its not bolted to the car all the way(yes, this has happened to me) or needs regreased. Its simple to get to/see to check for movement. Its on the drivers side below the air system.


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Thanks for the info. I will check the starter. Hopefully it just needs to be greased.

 

The grinding noise is from the starter. I had to fix mine at about the same miles as yours. You will not be able to fix it by only greasing it. The problem is in the brushes. It has 4 and they get eaten unevenly and start rattling as the rotor spins in them and thus the noise. You will have this sound for about 6 months before your starter will quit. What I did is I ordered the brush assembly for the starter - it is less than $50 at the dealer and replaced it. It has been about 5 years and no problemo any more. My advice is fix the original starter with original brush assembly rather than getting an after market one.

 

This

Mine made the exact same noise you describe.

 

At 123k miles, my Max is starting to make the same grinding noises on start-up, right as I let go of the key.