2000 Malibu LS, LOUD grinding sound from engine

[stlneese]

Two days ago my car made a loud, obnoxius grinding sound when turning, then the noise stopped. I started it up today and it now makes the loud, obnoxious grinding sound nonstop, in park, drive etc, making it undriveable to the service shop. I cannot at all pinpoint the location of this sound in my engine. Any advice? HELP!!

[bcopeland]

1) Starter sticking?
2) Valves loose (loose rockers)

You need to pinpoint the general location of the sound and reply.

[stlneese]

I'll try to find the origin and reply. Thanks for the help!

[stlneese]

Originally Posted by bcopeland

1) Starter sticking?
2) Valves loose (loose rockers)

You need to pinpoint the general location of the sound and reply.

I started her up again and this time no noise. It did make a quick grinding sound as if I turned the key when it was already started. It has typically only made this noise long after running for awhile and gone away quickly, so could it still be a starter problem?

[twistedtech]

Tensioner bearing,Alt bearing,PSPump bearing,A/C clutch and/or bearing.

[richtazz]

I agree with twisted. Check the A/C compressor clutch for little bits of metal shavings. If you see them, the AC pulley bearing has failed and you need a new compressor or compressor clutch and pulley. Very common issue on these cars. If the noise quiets down or goes away when the A/C is on, and gets louder when you turn the A/C off, it's definitely the compressor.