I have been have this whining noise coming for the engine bay for a while now.
It only occurs under these circumstances,

when i have parked the car for more than a few hours.
and only when i start to drive away from park (doesn't matter if it's high or low RPM).

the noise only happens once per drive and doesn't last more than a few seconds.
sounds like gears spinning.
my car is automatic.

wondering if anyone have heard similar sounds and figured out the issue, thanks.

 

Is it a whine or a high pitched squeak for a couple seconds? If it's the squeak, it might be that your belts need adjusting. This was happening to me when I parked outside in the cold overnight. Upon start up in the morning, I'd get this high pitched squeak that lasted for a second or two then never happened the rest of the day as my G's engine got warm. I have an '06 sedan automatic.

 

It's most likely the ABS(?) doing a self check. I think it comes on at 9mph. Try hitting the brakes at that time and the sound should get worse. This is normal to our cars.

 

I went to listen to the sound more carefully a few time and it does sound like the ABS! thanks

 

Ya my car does the same thing I'm glad it's all ok

 

This is the correct answer.