Hi,
I have just got my first WRX (2002) and I am worried about the transmission...
It seems to make a bearing (SSSHH) noise under power and it is most noticeable at 50-60 mph. I think it is diff or clutch related as it doesnt change with gear, just speed. It is only when I accelerate, even gently, if I coast in gear or slow down the box is very quiet. There is a slight whine too.
By the time I reach 75-80 the noise disappears or is drowned out.
What is odd is that the SSSh noise will bounce with the transmission if you come off and on the power quickly almost like a diff lashing.

The car has 60k and the local dealers seem to think this is normal (£80 to tell me). I would just like an opinion from guys who are used to the older cars, am I worrying unnecessarily? The clutch and gearchange both seem fine and I have replaced all the fluids.

 

Anyone got any ideas?

 

Very common on newage cars. Mine has had a whine type noise between 60-63 since I bought it 5 years ago. I think its a harminic vibration from the rear diff and if it goes outwith these speeds should be nothing to worry about.