Strange chirping sound

JTOP

MEMBER
2016 SUBARU WRX
2.0L
4 CYL
TURBO
4WD
MANUAL
60,000 MILES

Hey guys! Thanks in advance for the help. I've got a strange sound. I'll be as specific as possible.

The sound is a rhythmic chirping that varies in speed based on engine speed. It sounds similar to a warped rotor.

It generally only happens after the car is warmed up, and resolves completely when the clutch pedal is pressed, starting again immediately when the clutch is reengaged.

The sound continues while the car idles. Sound seems to be coming from just behind the engine somewhere under the inter-cooler. As far as I can tell it isn't related to any other systems.

There are no warning lights, other sounds, or performance issues. Nothing is visibly wrong.

Thanks again for the help!

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5 Replies

JIS001

MECHANIC
3,411 POSTS

There was bulleting to replace the drive belt with an updated version if you had a chirping sound coming from that area.

The bulletin number was 02-168-17

I do not know if they would replace it for you under warranty or not but if you provide the bulletin number and your VIN they will tell you for sure or at the very least sell you the upgraded belt if your VIN falls within there range for the bulletin.

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Sunday, December 22nd, 2019 AT 5:51 PM

JTOP

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Would a squeaky serpentine belt stop making noise when the clutch is pressed? I did a little more checking and the AC compressor clicking on or off doesn't make a difference either (except for making it harder to hear). It seems like suddenly increasing the load would effect the sound.

In any case I'll head over to the local dealership and see if this service was ever taken care of. It's a good thing to look into.

Thanks for the tip!

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Monday, December 23rd, 2019 AT 4:35 AM

JTOP

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Checked the VIN listed. Not a match anyway. :/

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Monday, December 23rd, 2019 AT 4:47 AM

JIS001

MECHANIC
3,411 POSTS

No it would not. Sounds more like the throw out bearing in the clutch. There is also an updated bearing.

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Monday, December 23rd, 2019 AT 12:33 PM

JTOP

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Fixed the problem today. It was indeed the throw out bearing, but fortunately it didn't have to be replaced.

It's apparently an issue with later WRX's. There is way too much play in the clutch and that causes various problems. A quick adjustment of the clutch pedal serves a dual purpose of fixing the chirping issue and making the clutch feel tighter and more responsive. 20 minutes and no new parts.

Thanks again for your help!