I have a uk my00, and I have noticed a whining, belt type noise coming from the engine bay.

I'm pretty sure it's not the gearbox, and isn't crazy loud, just a bit annoying.

I had my 45,000 cam-belt service yesterday - ouch!!! And mentioned it to them. They reckon it's just a trait of the engine, any opinions?

Cheers.

 

maybe its your wife checking the price of the belt

 

Check the power steering fluid level? Also consider - alternator, steering pump, air con compressor bearings etc.
Depends where in Essex you are, but there's a meeting at the Dick Turpin on the A127 Thursday night if you want a comparison!
JohnD