When the weather is cold, after I start my 98 ml320, with 107,000 original miles, and turn the steering wheel to get out of the driveway, a high pitch whining sound comes from the driver's side somewhere in the left front. Once the car is warm, say after only about 1 minute, the sound disappears. This happens regularly. What gives? Thanks

__________________
87 300e (white/black; amg body kit)
88 300ce (red/cream; amg body kit)
93 300ce cabrio (white/blue/blue top)
93 300ce cabrio (black/grey/black top)
98 ml 320 (totaled @ 137,000 miles)
99 clk320 (black/grey/black top)

have you checked the power steering fluid level? it may be low and when it warms it may expand the level will rise and the noise goes away.
Ray
mercedessd@cox.net

If it sounds like a chirping sound, it's the fuse box blower motor. I had the same thing, dealer couldn't find anything wrong. Next time it happens, pop the hood and stick your ear near the fuse box, you will hear it. It's nothing to worry, if it bothers you a new blower motor will set you back $60 or so. Takes about 10 minutes to change.

thanks, guys. I haven't checked the manual yet, but do you recall if the power steering fluid is a scheduled maintenance flush item, or just something to check and top off if necessary?

__________________
87 300e (white/black; amg body kit)
88 300ce (red/cream; amg body kit)
93 300ce cabrio (white/blue/blue top)
93 300ce cabrio (black/grey/black top)
98 ml 320 (totaled @ 137,000 miles)
99 clk320 (black/grey/black top)

it is something that should be checked and topped off when necessary.
Ray
mercedessd@cox.net

Thanks for the information. I checked the reservoir and the fluid level was indeed low. Should I use the MB fluid (expensive, no doubt) or will any name brand do?

__________________
87 300e (white/black; amg body kit)
88 300ce (red/cream; amg body kit)
93 300ce cabrio (white/blue/blue top)
93 300ce cabrio (black/grey/black top)
98 ml 320 (totaled @ 137,000 miles)
99 clk320 (black/grey/black top)

you can use mobil 1 full synth ATF or goto the dealer and buy mb steering fluid

Just wanted to followup. Purchased 1 qt mobil 1 synthetic atf at autozone for about $5, put in about 20% of container, & no more noise. Took about 20 seconds. ( it was cold out). BTW, my dealer wanted $11 for a 1 liter bottle of mb ps fluid. Thanks to all for the help. I haven't checked since I drove the car, but if i overfilled should I siphon out the excess so as not to be higher than the max line?

__________________
87 300e (white/black; amg body kit)
88 300ce (red/cream; amg body kit)
93 300ce cabrio (white/blue/blue top)
93 300ce cabrio (black/grey/black top)
98 ml 320 (totaled @ 137,000 miles)
99 clk320 (black/grey/black top)

I've had a high pitched whine or whistle sound on occassion, primarily in the winter, but haven't heard it lately, PS fluid is fine - what's the fuse box blower motor for? To keep it cool?

__________________
Francis E. Abate
Automotive Restoration & Preservation
Sheet metal, trim and upholstery