i have a 03 mazda protege es with about 5000 miles on it. Recently i notice a grinding/crunching noise when i start my car . It only happens when the motor is cold. Is this normal?. What do u guys think about it?
thanx in advance

 

I'm guessing you have a manual transmission?

http://web2.airmail.net/theman/protegefaq/tsb/

Check the 3rd gen section of the TSBs, and the 'clutch chatter during cold takeoff' . Maybe that's it? Check if there's anything else if not.

 

I get it too...sounds like its coming from the top end or maybe a heat shield rattling. I chose to ignore it and it hasn't caused any problems yet and I'm at 80,000 miles.

 

Its not the clutch. i wasnt being clear enough. I mean when i fire her up. Its before i even put it in gear or move the car. Its only for a sec when i turn on the car.thanx for your replay tho

 

woah 80 k miles already. u sure drive alot

 

damn 80 k miles... wow

I'm just about to hit 80k kilometers lol, but i've had the car since may of 99, u drive ALOT more than me