Release Bearing

[Iyse]

So I called up Mercedes of Coventry and descirbed the whistling, whirring sound coming from my engine to them. I was told it was probably the release bearing when the clutch is engaged, and that altogether it'd cost £400 + VAT to look at it and fix it!!!

Does anyone have any second opinions about what it could be, or know anywhere cheaper where I could get it seen to? Or... Do it myself? Hehe. Please, someone help me out! £400 + VAT for a whirring noise for god's sake!!

 

[scotth_uk]

When the car is idling in neutral, you should be able to hear the noise. Depress the clutch and the noise should go away.

My Crossfire has the same issue at present, but is a known problem and will be fixed for free. I also had a 200SX once that had another batch build issue, and was fixed for free.

They do have to drop out the entire gearbox to get at it, so it will be pricey. Definitely a few hours work, and I wouldn't want just anyone dropping the GB out of my pride and joy.

Also, just to add insult to injury - the part itself costs about 40p.

 

[Iyse]

When it's in neutral and the clutch goes down there's no change in the sound. It's only when I get up to 1500-2000rpm in gear when I start to hear the whirring. The engine bay still sounds squeaky from the fan belt tho, and that really annoys me. Is this normal on a 1.8 or do I need a new belt if it's all squeaky?