Strange noise from my C5

[Black-C5]

My 2001 C5 Coupe has just developed a strange new noise: it's a high-pitched whining sound that appears to come from the rear of the car. It's only happens occasionally, and when it does it only lasts a few seconds.

I seem to recall reading that there's a pump that distributes fuel between the twin fuel tanks. Could this be the source of the sound? Does this mean that the pump is on its way out? And is this going to be a major pain in the wallet to get fixed??

Other than the noise though, I've not noticed any impact on the car: fuel delivery and consumption seem to be OK. Any thoughts or advice welcomed...

[G4HKS]

Call the Corvette "Doctor" at:

Ian Goss Services, 0208 391 9090.

We will tell you what it is, will give you an estimate to banish the noise forever and give your car back to you cleaned and ready to go. (On time too!)

Thoroughly decent chap. Located in Surbiton Surrey.

[Boosted LS1]

When does this noise happen? Is it when you switch the ignition on or when driving the car and changing gears or loading/unloading the transmission?

[mitch_]

All early C5s had fuel pump noise from the rear of the car. Obviously I can only guess, but it does rather sound like the puppy. That said the fuel pump whine was fairly continuous.........

[Black-C5]

The noise doesn't happen when I switch the ignition on and I don't think it's related to the (auto) transmission, as it doesn't necessarily coincide with the gearbox changing up or down. It happens maybe two or three times during a typical half-hour journey, but there doesn't seem to be a pattern as to when it occurs. Strange that it's just started happening now - I've had the car over for over two years and I've never noticed it before!

I'm not sure whether to just live with it, or get it seen to now in case gets worse and leads to other problems in future.

[Corsette]

If it's on the left hand side just behind you then it's the fuel pump.

Mine does this every now and then, can't figure out a cause but never been a problem.