I'm hoping someone can help. I have a 2003 Civic and everytime I'm going up a steep hill (or a steep ramp in a parking garage) the engine makes this weird whining noise. Any idea what to check first?

BTW - Thanks in advance for any advice!

Is there's a better place to ask? Still learning my around here.

is it a standard? and if it is are you staying in first gear when you go up the hill, if so, just put it in second and it should be alright.

no, it's an auto, but I guess it does act like it should shift - guess it's just winding up more than I htink it should

it's probably just shifting into a lower gear and making the engine rev higher. Do you have a factory tach? If you do, just watch it next time you go up a hill.

check your belts, may need a shot of belt dressing, 2 bucks a can. they say not to spray when car is running, ignore that cause you will never get complete coverage on the belt.