Badeshlesh

I have been experiencing a problem with my 1998 cavalier sedan for about a week, but now it has become really noticeable. Whenever I accelerate, my engine (or something) has begun to make a very annoying, almost like a high pitch whining sound. This happens whenever the engine is cold or has been running for a while. Any suggestions as to what it could be?

GraveDigger

Is it a whine or more like a humming sound? Sometimes IAC valves will make a lower-pitched humming noise that I've heard referred to as "moosing". The PCM opens and closes that valve as needed to direct air around the throttle body to keep the engine from stalling due to lack of airflow from a closed throttle plate. If the IAC valve is dirty or damaged, it could be making that noise. Take the air cleaner hose off the throttle body and inspect the throttle plate area fordirt/carbon build up, and spray it out with throttle body cleaner if it's dirty. Don't start the engine until after it's had time to drain (an hour should do), or you could foul your injectors.
If you want to check the IAC valve, you can remove it from the engine and spray it out with carb cleaner to remove any deposits or dirt (carb cleaner evaporates). You'll need to get a new IAC valve gasket if you remove it though. You can also try to listen to it with a mechanic's stethoscope and see if the noise originates there.

shawnvw

Check the power steering fluid

Badeshlesh

It was the power steering fluid, I had a leak...gotta fix the pipe. thanks!