Sagebum

It was dramatic and loud to say the least. In the case of it happening again, the Sub mechanic said it would be nice if it would do it again and cause big damage so they could find it and go after it. As it is now...it is a mystery. Thanks again for the input.

Much appreciation for the ideas...I am taking notes! Eventually I want to go back and talk to the service manager about how to proceed, things you all have mentioned to check. I hope for a simple fix and answer. Right now I have a car we love but are afraid to go out in the middle of Nevada with. How would a rock get in there? Thanks again.

Thanks The key info is that the noise was consistent with engine rpm not wheel rpm/road speed. Even the Subaru mechanic ruled out anything external. The only exposed part that rotates in direct relation to engine rpm is the drive belt area in front of the engine. The noise was behind and the engine and occurred after we were statioary and in Park. Just trying to be clear.

To back up... 08 Legacy Outback Wagon, 2.5 I 4cyl auto trans. 18,000 mi/18 months old While driving up a slight incline at 40 mph, we heard a faint buzzing sound that in 2 seconds turned into a sound like a stick going into a fan which immediately turned into a sound such as a fork/knife/spoon in sink garbage disposer. Very loud, very scary. The key thing here is that it was consistent with engine rpm, not wheel rpm. Pulled over and stopped, opened hood, started engine in Park for 2 seconds. Same garbage disposer sounds from just behind the engine...not in front or around drive belt. Emergency AAA road towed car to Subaru dealer for next day inspection . Next day Subaru mechanic checked a lot of things before starting car but when he did...absolute normal running engine. Test drove 15 minutes. No sound. Can't do anything under warranty and it only cost me $100 to find that out. The mechanic was very cooperative and we talked for about 20 minutes/drove car etc. I talked to an independent Subaru guy and another general mechanic. The general theory from each is that something came loose in the bell housing, perhaps an inspection hole cover plate and fell down and got the @#$!% beat out of it and then fell down out of the way and is now just sitting there. Recommendation is to drive the car and see if any permanent damage shows up. Any thoughts from anyone with knowledge of this? Where would I look for a missing inspection hole cover if that is the problem? If a hole cover is now missing, does that leave the internals of the bell housing exposed to debris/dirt/wear? I want to go beyond the dealer to Subaru with as much info as possible. Thanks