Whistling clutch?

iaind · 26 Mar 2009 at 08:47

Got an odd problem with the car that I was hoping someone around here might be able to shed some light on.

Its a 2004 Mondeo TDCI 2.0 with 48k miles on it, it seems that when it's cold and the clutch pedal is pressed, I get a very high pitched whistling noise. I originally though it was the heater blower, its very quiet and seems to come from in the cabin (although it probably isnt!). Once it's warmed up it doesnt seem to happen.

Clutch feels positive and everything works as it should - any ideas what the noise is?

iaind · 26 Mar 2009 at 10:31

AFAIK it hasnt been done as I don't think it's part of the regular servicing

iaind · 26 Mar 2009 at 10:47

kaiowas said:
The release bearing whining was my first thought too. Does it still do it if you press the clutch with the engine off?

Only when its running and idling

iaind · 26 Mar 2009 at 10:55

kaiowas said:
Sounds more likely to be the bearing than the hydraulics then as with the engine off the bearing wouldn't be spinning so you'll get no noise. The hydraulics will behave in the same way whether the engine is running or not.

Could also possibly be an air leak somewhere which is only audible under the specific speed and load conditions although that's less likely.

Try popping the bonnet and having a listen whilst someone else presses the clutch to see if you can hear it better or tell where it's coming from.

Will have a look, although despite being fairly mechanically minded, clutches and gearboxes are still witchcraft as far as I'm concerned.

Presumably if it wants a release bearing, its worth replacing the clutch, even at this mileage?

Given the tendancy of these engines to need flywheel replacements, would it be sensible to go whole hog and replace that too?

iaind · 26 Mar 2009 at 11:12

kaiowas said:
When the time comes I'd probably replace clutch and flywheel however if it's only a slight noise under the conditions you mention i'd personally ignore it for now and wait to see if it gets worse.

Yes I appreciate I'm being a bit presumptuous! It did have a service a week ago so has new oil, I wonder if that might affect it somehow

iaind · 30 Mar 2009 at 10:43

Well the noise is getting worse and after doing some research I think its the dreaded TDCi dual mass flywheel failure.

Is £647 a good price for a new clutch and flywheel fitted and guaranteed for a year?

iaind · 30 Mar 2009 at 11:14

That's what they said, I have enquired about a solid conversion although I'm not keen because the gearbox wasnt designed for it