UK Car Repair: Renault Clio x reg 2001, renault clio, clutch release

Question
QUESTION: My renault has started having a kind of deep whirring noise happening a few weeks ago.  Sounds like it is coming from the engine as can hear it louder towards front of car when windows are shut.  It is not really loud, can just kinda be heard alongside engine noise.  Any ideas what it could be?

ANSWER: Hi Chris, the smart money is on the clutch release bearing. If you press the clutch pedal does the noise stop? If so then it is the release bearing. However this noise could be absolutely anything. could you better describe the circumstances around it's occurrence, does it raise with engine speed (get louder or faster ? ) Does it occur when the engine is in gear or neutral? These things may help me to locate the problem - let me know - Paul


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QUESTION: The noise does not go away when i press the clutch and does happen at all speeds  although it sometimes  only starts when I have already reached over 40mph and then will  be continuous at any speed.  It does not occur when the engine is not in gear or when I am at a stand still but in gear...

Answer
Hi Chris, it sounds like a gearbox bearing possibly the input shaft, have you checked the gear oil level and condition as it may be a simple case of not enough oil (hypoid 80/90) ? I would suggest start with the cheap and easy stuff and work in . let me know how it goes - Paul