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!

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.