Saab: car wouldnt turn over, saab 900, personal expertise

Question
My daughter has a '96 Saab 900. It was cold this morning (TEENS)she started the car to let it warm up, shut it off for a few minutes, went to start it again, the engine would not turn over.
When I got home from work, I got thehcar started - pumped the accelerator 3 times and it turned over but not right away.  After it was running, a whining noise came from the engine. I opened the hood and it seemes to be coming from under the battery, windshild washer, coolant area.  Almost sounded like a dog whining.  After a few minutes it stopped.  Any idea as to what it could be?  Is it the timing belt/chain?
Thank you,
Jay

Answer
My level of personal expertise is limited to non-turbo 1993 and earlier 900's, so I cannot give you a definite answer. It is not likely a timing belt/chain however, since you were able to start the engine subsequently. It could be an idler pulley bearing. It also seems unlikely that the noise and inability to turn over are related, but possible, if for example, the starter were stuck in an ON position, suggesting a problem in with the starter. (If the engine is running and the starter is engaged, a whining noise will result).
 Hope this helps................