I noticed today that when I started it, the engine made a whining noise and seemed to fluctuate a little reeeorwreooow for a few minutes.(Rpms did as well) After it warmed up, The whining sound went away. It wasn't TOO loud, but it was noticable.

It seemed to be fine when I checked the car later on tonight...

What should I check?
Thanks in advance!

-FieroRumor

Alternator and belt.

First suspect= Alternator (Do you hear through the stereo also?)
Second suspect= Water pump. This one will transmit it's sound all over the engine, but will be loudest in the bearing are of the water pump
Third suspect= IAC
Is it an auto trans? = Torque converter, but not all that likely

If you have something that you can use as a"stethescope" you can track it down while it's occurring. I've used tubeing (metal or hard plastic), steel jack handle, long metal bars, or a piece of 2x2. Place one end on the object to be listened to and put your ear against the other end. BE VERY CAREFUL AROUND MOVING PARTS, such as pulleys and belts.

Good luck,
Dave

quote Topic: Slight wine on startup

I prefer a chilled Chardonnay whilst I turn the key.

But back to your problem. I have to agree that its the alternator. Try this trick... next time this happens, wait til it goes away then immediately turn on every electric item... headlights, wipers, 4-ways, etc. to create a draw on the alternator. If it comes back, you've found your problem [and if not, you'll look weird and people will point]. However, It could be a ground problem or it could be that the battery is slowly failing, causing the alternator to work harder than before to bring it back up, thus producing said 'wine'.

Speaking of which, when I'm feeling naughty, I opt for a swig of stout blush straight from the bottle just prior to inserting the key. YMMV