1999 CRV Whining Noise when Complietely Cold

[dbsoundman]

Hi all, new member here. I've had my 99 CRV since 2005, and it now has upwards of 175k miles on it. I've noticed now that the weather's getting cold I hear a weird whining/whirring sound when I start it up and the engine is completely cold, i.e. first thing in the morning. The sound seems to be coming from under the hood. Further investigation leads me to believe it's something under or near the underside of the left side of the engine (when you're looking from the front bumper). I'm thinking it's some sort of pump or other device but I'm not really all that familiar with all the components in that area just yet. Does anyone have any thoughts or suggestions on what might be making that noise, and if it's something I need to address?

Thanks,
Dan

[dbsoundman]

Anyone? I don't think it's power steering, because the noise doesn't change pitch with steering wheel position, only with higher RPMs. Not sure what other pumps/devices are in the vicinity of the lower passenger side of the engine.

[not my first Honda]

I have a 98 that does the same thing and I belive its the starter dragging, it only does it when its cold and goes away in seconds.