Vehicle Issue...

[Robert Edmonds]

I recently noticed this and have been trying to figure out what could be the issue. If the issue persists I will be taking my vehicle to a mechanic here shortly. Being a grad student with a limited budget, I wouldn't like to give a mechanic a fishing expedition, and run up a large bill without fixing it. So, I'd kinda like to have an idea what this might be.

Anyhow, my Nissan Xterra 2001 has begun making a high pitched whine at 60 mph +/- 2 mph. Occurs whether vehicle is in drive/in neutral, AC on/off, radio on/off. Can't pinpoint sound... passenger heard it too. Sounds like your ears are ringing, expect with constant speed there is no change in pitch or amplitude once it gets going. No noticeable change in vehicle performance or handling.

I like to keep my car in good order, so trying to figure this out. Checked fluids nothing is low. Someone suggested it being a wind related issue. I would be surprised if it is, since it occurs before, during, and after passing a vehicle.

 

[GPhillips]

Recent experience here with something similar. At 60 to 65 mph my car would make a notable noise somewhere between a dull roar and a whine which got a little louder as I sped up. A friend who was a car buff suggested possibly a bearing. It turned out to be the right rear wheel bearing.

 

[CZandbergen]

Recent experience here with something similar. At 60 to 65 mph my car would make a notable noise somewhere between a dull roar and a whine which got a little louder as I sped up. A friend who was a car buff suggested possibly a bearing. It turned out to be the right rear wheel bearing.

I was going to suggest the same thing. If that is the problem you need to get that looked at asap.

 

[Ric Burney]

If the A/C clutch bearings go bad it will squeal whether the A/C is on or off. An easy fix is to disconnect the a/c belt. If you have a few tools it is something you can do yourself:
http://www.nissanclub.com/forums/ge...01/278136-squeal-c-cluth-pulley-area-fix.html
If the squeal is only happening at high speed I would suggest, as those above have said that you check the wheel bearings.

 

[Rob Wadsworth]

Wheel bearings are a fair guess. Mileage is a major factor, and so is the history of the loads you were carrying. Other things can also cause 'oscillations'; such as drive joints, pulleys, tires, etc. Anything that can spin or vibrate can oscillate. A vacuum leak can be a fooler too; so a pro mechanic is in order for a proper diagnosis. A pro can/will diffentiate the diagnosis..

It really needs to be seen by a local pro; as you wouldn't want to 'shotgun' repairs of any vehicle. It could become expensive and you might miss the problem. To replace things w/o a proper diagnoses is haphazard and just plain unprofessional. I've retired from auto mechanics, but would recommnend a top-grade alignment shop in your area. They see these kinds of problems all of the time...

 

[Robert Edmonds]

I think I figured it out. I think it's a new antenna issue actually. I've had the new antenna on for a few weeks but only recently did I get on a highway with it. I took off when driving on the highway today and the vehicle stopped whining. Thanks for all your comments...