Looking for some advice if possible please...

Recently bought a 2003 STI Type UK with various modifications under the bonnet. It drives great and sounds really good BUT on a cold start (first drive of the day) I'll leave her to warm up for 5 minutes or so but when i move there is a squeel type noise from under the bonnet, i've heard the noise on other cars and always assumed it was a timing belt noise...probably completely wrong, anyway it only happens when completely cold and disappears immediately.

Oh and the steering feels really stiff...again just for the first few seconds when i reverse to get out of the drive.

Any advice?

 

Fan belt, tighten and put some french chalk dust on it.

 

that's great...thanks for the advice mate

 

If you have more than 1 belt, do them all, some have separate belts. The one with the issue is the one going to the power steering pump I am guessing by your description.

If that doesn't fix the problem it may be your power steering pump on its way out.

 

defo power steering belt, mine was same...tightened it up to proper deflection and sorted, note u might need a new belt tho'

 

thanks again

is this an easy 'at home fix'...bearing in mind i'm more special needs than special when it comes to an engine.

 

thanks, will get someone to take a look. i just find it always helps if you at least sound as though you know what you're talking about to avoid the dreaded in take of breath and the immortal words 'it's not gonna be cheap'.

anyone recommend someone in the north london herts area?