strange whirling sound on ignition
 

Has anyone experienced a strange sound when they start their Mini?

I have a 2004 with recently replaced leaking thermostat. One week later, it makes this strange sound every time I start it.
K

RE: strange whirling sound on ignition
 

You should check your belt pulley tensioner. It has a bearing and sometimes I have heard them start to make noises.

RE: strange whirling sound on ignition
 

The power steering cooling fan bearings went out on my Cooper, and it announced itself with a scraping noise and slight vibration through the steering column shortly after startup.