01 Pathfinder makes high-pitched noise when turning the key

[mestguy182]

Hi all,

I have a 2001 Pathfinder 3.5 LE that in the past week has started making a strange 1~2 second long high-pitched noise when I turn the key to ignition and again when I turn the key to off after the car has started. The car still starts and runs find, it's just this weird noise every time I turn it on and off. Any ideas?
Thanks,
Justin

[Slumpert]

Bose sound system might have a failing amplifier. Just my first guess

[mestguy182]

Hmm, that could be it, I just replaced the head unit a month ago with an after-market one but left the Bose amp in.
Thanks for heads up, I'll pull the fuse and see what happens.

[mestguy182]

Ok, just went out to the car and unfortunately it is not the Audio system, I pulled both fuses and it didn't change anything. Just to clarify I don't hear the sound until starting the car, turning the key to ACC or IGN doesn't do anything, I have to actually start the car. Then, Turning the car off doesn't make the noise either, only when I pull the key out does it do it.
Thanks,
Justin

[Towncivilian]

If I position the key to just after "ON" but not so far as to get the starter cranking, I hear the high-pitched whine too. I don't think it's anything to worry about.

[mestguy182]

Do you hear it when you turn the car off?

[Towncivilian]

I do not believe so. Maybe the fuel pump continues to run for a second or two after ignition is turned off (which it should not be doing).

[mestguy182]

You're right though, I don't have to start the car to hear the noise, just turn it past the On mark.