I initially had a cold weather start problem, where the engine wouldn't turn at all. Bandaid fix was to jiggle the gear shifter, then it would start. Can be nerve wrecking in cold weather. Took it to an indy and the cold weather problem seems to be gone - they replaced speed sensor, saying something about it wasn't 'centered'. I trust them, and it fixed the problem, so no issue. Now I'm faced with a warm start problem.

Symptom is, while the engine is warm, I turn the key, and the engine starts cranking. After 1 or 2 seconds of cranking, I hear screeching sound, after which either nothing happens or I back off. Almost sounds like the drive belt is stuck. All this happens in normal ignition time, say 3, max 4 seconds. Next time I turn the key, it usually starts the engine without any other symptom. Sometimes I get cranking-followed-by-screeching symptom again.

My indy hasn't been able to reproduct the problem, but he thinks we'll be stranded sooner or later. I know they're trying hard, but want to guide them in the right direction so I don't have to keep taking the car back. Can any one help?

"Screeching sounds" aren't good. The ac compressor clutch could be slipping but I don't think it should be engaged when starting. Check the accessory belt and camm belt tensioners to see if the bearings are bad. The front engine mount under the crank pulley could be bad and the metal pieces could be rubbing. Check all the accessory belt pulleys. I just discovered my son was sold a belt that was too long for his S10 pickup. It was allowing the crank pulley and tensioner pulley to rub together. Sounded like a major engine mechanical problem. If it only happens when starting it may be the starter motor but I haven't seen many postings of starter problems. Did the mechanic remove it and maybe not tighten the mounting bolts enough?

Thanks for the reply.

I don't know much about engines, so I'm at my mechanic's mercy. He's a good guy, but who knows, it could've been a newbie that just started learning. 'Screeching' is the best I can describe the noise, and it's not always there. I went to pick up the car after the shop closed, and I was able to reproduce it 6 out of 7 times. Geez.

I'll talk to the mechanic about what you mentioned next week. Thanks.