Engine grind when I start the car and it's chilly out
 

Did a little searching, didn't find anything relevant, so here goes...

Occasionally, maybe 3 out of 20 starts, I will get a pretty intense grind noise right after I start my car. The grind noise lasts about half a second and then the car runs as normal. It usually does it when it is cold out, and being that I live in FL, doesn't happen often, but if there is a problem, I would still like it fixed. I will probable take it to the dealer to have them look at it, but thought I'd ask you first in case it's an easy fix because I HATE going to the dealer. Any suggestions would be great. Free bj from the gf for anyone who has the answer! Haha

Mine did it for the first time today. It seems that these cars hate it when it is cold out.

my 03 did that, its the timing chain chattering. I believe its a result of the oil taking a second to reach the chain, more likely it is the fact that the oil is thinner when it is cold.

I had a similar issue and it got progressively worse. At first it started up lean (grinding noise) then sputtered its way to a start, then eventually it wouldn't start without me giving it a little throttle right at start up. (when it was cold outside)

I initially thought it was the battery, the MAF, or an issue derived from my Popcharger.

The problem turned out to be the throttle body and when I had it replaced it with a new unit all the problems went away and it starts up like a champ.

According to a well-known vendor and master technician from Precision Z the issue is common in 2003-2006 Z's and G's.

You may want to start there.

I make the same noise when I start up on a cold morning. Not my car. Me. :icon14:

Oil does not get thinner as the temperature gets colder...who told you that?

hmmm I've been having this same problem for about 2 weeks now. Although mine doesn't make the grinding sound when I start the car, just when I drive it after starting it. Even if I let it warm up first, it still does it once I get going....especially on turns. Then it stops after about 30 seconds. Subscribed for more info

See this thread: https://my350z.com/forum/forced-indu...tensioner.html

And this TSB: http://maxima.theowensfamily.com/tsb/ntb03-060.pdf

My car also makes this grinding noise in cold weather. My brothers S2000 also makes this noise. Its last only about 1 second if that. Its a very quick cement grinding noise.

You're 100% accurate with the description of the noise. That is exactly it. I'll kep searching for answers and keep you guys posted. Also, my car is bone stock so it is not mod related. Hope I find something, I don't like when my car with 26k miles makes crazy noises!

I have the same exact problem with my Z. I had a tech at Nissan check it out and he said (and I quote) "Change your drive belt, it might be a little loose." Since when does a loose drive belt sound like a damn cement mixer?:icon9: