Howling Noise from Passenger Side - Blower motor?

[rogerjohnsen]

2003 Boxster S

I have this noise (like a howl) coming from the passenger side of the car. I can't tell exactly where but it's around the dash or front fender behind the fuel door. I think it's related to the air/heater fan or blower and seems to appear and disappear based on engine RPMs. I went through the 18 page list of Boxster common problems and did not see it; although I seem to recall seeing a post about it a while back. Searching hasn't turned anything up so I'm hoping someone can help out.

It doesn't seem to be a huge problem and I've put up with it for the last 5-6 years but I'm thinking it's time to fix it... Many thanks!

[harryrcb]

check this thread out at http://forums.pelicanparts.com/boxster-cayman-forum/588568-ghost-machine-wooooooo-sound-45mph.html

[rogerjohnsen]

Wow - Thanks! I do believe that is exactly what's going on. I guess the "flute" is a better description - it does kind of sound similar to blowing across the top of a bottle too. LOL

Do all Boxsters do this? I've had mine from birth and swear I never heard the noise for the first several years I owned it...

[wvicary]

A fault with the fuel tank venting system perhaps? It shouldn't be making this noise.

[rogerjohnsen]

Seems like the problem is pretty widespread - after refining my search terms somewhat I've found several posts which reference the same problem I'm experiencing.

I just fixed my ignition switch problem and not too long ago the light switch assembly problem. Both of these problems are notoriously widespread as well so I guess I'm not surprised this one is as well.

http://986forum.com/forums/general-discussions/21270-moaning-whistling-sound-gas-filler-compartment.html

Many thanks for the advice helping to narrow down the source!

[jim_h]

My car started doing this a number of months ago, it's a 2000 non S that I bought in April 2010 with 93K miles. Did not hear the sound until after about a year of ownership and I have no idea whether the PO had it as well. For me it's hard to tell where it is coming from, at first I thought it was from behind the seats but it could be coming from the right side of the dash. I never hear it when I start the car and take off, it always comes on after about 20-30 minutes of driving and at speeds around 40-45 mph. It sounds to me like a vibration, especially as it fades in and out, maybe a harmonic the it hits under certain conditions (temperature, speed). I wonder it there is a rubber seal or strip between two metal parts that has slipped or deteriorated, allowing the parts to contact.

Whatever it is, good luck to all of us finding it...