I own a 2002 Chevy tahoe, 5.3 and have an issue. When starting, I occasionally have a brief "grinding" noise prior to the engine starting. I know this is most likely the starter but now also have a rattling noise while driving/idling, irregular, intermittant, changes in intensity, rhythm does not coincide/change with the cycle of the cylinders. I've never known a starter problem to include noises while driving. Is this possible or should I start looking elsewhere? Thanks for any help.

 

I agree with your diagnosis that you require a new starter. You should install a new starter on the truck as soon as you can. It is one of those things that can catch up on you. It starts out where it makes a noise and starts and then one day, you need a hammer or you are stuck.

The rattling noise could be many things. Hopefully it isn't the starter. I expect that it is a heat shield. You will have to get under the truck and take a look or take it to a shop and get it up on the hoist.

Good luck with your repairs.

 

Mulmur,

Thanks for the reply. I'll plan on replacing the starter this weekend. I'll also check the heat shield and for anything else that may be loose. Addendum to the noise, the starter problem upon start-up is intermittant but have noticed that it recurrs when the rattling is present. Who knows, maybe I'll find the starter is loose and it solves both problems. Thanks, again, for the advice.