When weather cools I get growling noise when gas is pressed, not at idle around the intake. After warm up, noise gone. No prob in summer. Car runs great. It is a 2001 Chrysler 300M 3.5 v6.
RESPONSE
Seems to be quite a few out there with this growling noise or howling noise on cold start ups. Most have determined the problem is from loose belts, warn pulleys or low power steering fluid. It is also recommended to replace the power steering fluid with ATF+4 to help quite down the noise even though the service manual indicates not to.
Make sure the V belt for the A/C is also adjusted properly. Often needs to be tighter than most feel is needed. It will “drum” on the front cover at cold start and growl.
I have had relatively good success with replacing the drive belts and pulleys to correct the cold start moan. Or, if they are still relatively new, to re-tension them.
POWER STEERING PUMP INITIAL OPERATION
Caution:
The fluid level should be checked with engine off to prevent injury from moving components. Use only Mopar® Power Steering Fluid. Do not use automatic transmission fluid. Do not overfill.
Wipe the power steering fluid reservoir and filler cap clean. Check the level of the power steering fluid in the reservoir. The power steering fluid level should be between MAX. COLD and MIN. COLD when the fluid is at a normal ambient temperature of approximately 32°C to 43°C (90°F to 110°F).
- Fill the pump fluid reservoir to the proper level and let the fluid settle for at least two (2) minutes.
- Start the engine and let run for a few seconds. Then turn the engine off.
- Add fluid if necessary. Repeat the above procedure until the fluid level remains constant after running the engine.
- Raise the front wheels off the ground.
- Start the engine. Slowly turn the steering wheel right and left, lightly contacting the wheel stops for less than 2 seconds at a time.
- Add power steering fluid if necessary.
- Lower the vehicle and turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock.
- Stop the engine. Check the fluid level and refill as required.
- If the fluid is extremely foamy, allow the vehicle to stand a few minutes and repeat the above procedure.
- Lower the vehicle.