I have an '03. Sometimes when the I cold start the car, i hear a grinding sound coming. It sounds a lot like if you're trying to change gears without first pushing the clutch. The car is otherwise fine, and the check engine light isn't on or anything.

I had the exact same issue with a 1995 nissan maxima that was also a stick shift. I know that problem just went away after a while, but I cant remember how. Anyway, anyone know what im talking about? I'm sorry I cant be more specific, as I'm not very technical.

 

If it is only for a second or less when cold starting I think it is normal... or I hope so because mine does it as well I think I've read a few other people saying the same also.

 

yeah, i've noticed it only on cold start, and it only lasts a second or so. i think (or hope) we're describing the same thing. glad to know im not alone. wish I knew what was going on specifically though.

 

yea happened twice to me i think its something with the flywheel

 

did you do anything about it, or did it just go away?

 

It's this right?

Some say it's timing chain, some say it's something else. A lot of people report it and it seems like it's nothing to worry about. My built engine does the same thing and I can't remember if my first one did.

Read here, too:

http://g35driver.com/forums/130755-post14.html

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2kGC...eature=related

 

Its the throwout bearing. usually when you push clutch it goes away?

 

Throw out bearing would rattle all the time with the clutch out, no?

 

Not all the time. Mines did on my old transmission when I first start it in the cold. The grease on the shaft at first when cold would cause the throw-out bearing to stick a little when first started. I usually pump the clutch 1-2 times and the noise went away..

 

Lol my TOB rattles ALL the time the clutch is not engaged. #1 Thing I hate about my Z.

That video is the same as mine.

 

My Z would do something like that when I was using Mobil 1 oil filters. I don't think the check valve is up to par on those filters allowing the oil galleries to drain back into the pan. I switched back to Nissan filters and the noise went away. What kind of filters are you all using?

 

valvoline, as thats the last filter they put in after my oil change a week ago. the oil change before that was mobil 1. it only happens sometimes, not every cold start. but like i said, I had the exact same sound on my nissan maxima, so its not like i havent experienced it before. That had a manual tranny too.

where do you get 'nissan oil filters' anyway?

 

At the dealer. $9 each.