bonstubon

So this is about my 2011 g37 journey sedan. Lately, I've started hearing this sound (Vocaroo | Voice message) some times when I start my car (not necessarily a cold start).

It's pretty audible and somewhat annoying when I am sitting inside. What do you guys think? I'd appreciate any help/comments.

Thanks!

SonicVQ

The volume on the recording is very low and I couldn't hear much.
What I did hear sounded normal.

Try recording it again: under the car by the driver's seat and pop the hood and record by the engine. This will help to determine if it is engine or transmission.

bonstubon

Here's something similar:
Mine isn't as loud as this though, I will check my oil to begin with, but yeah, no idea what might be going on.

AUR11

My car makes a light sound like that on cold starts. It goes away after about 10 seconds. It is no where near as loud as that video you posted though. I just changed my oil and it ate about a 1/4-1/3 of a quart.

SonicVQ

Sounds like a cam/lifter or VVEL issue:

Use this technique "Screw driver to the ear"
AND listen to each valve cover. I suspect one will sound much louder than the other. The loud
one will be the one with the issue.