I'm hearing a strange sound like a small motor, coming from the passenger front side of my car when I start ignition or turn off ignition. It only happens sometimes. Not everytime. It just started happening las week because I never heard or noticed it before. I have a DX. No powered seats. Does anyone know what the sound is ? Is something wrong ?[/align]

 

could it be your power door lock motor running. any more idea as to area inside /outside/ under dash/ front of door

 

It could be the Power Door Lock but why do I only hear the motor wind down only sometimes ? Most times, there is no motor sound & the doors Lock & Unlock perfectly.Are you suppose tohear the motor ? I never did until now. Have the car since Jan. 2007.

 

they have plastic parts in them and it may not be tripping the internal limit switch. as you operate the key watch the manual lock button for movement. just a guess

 

I did some research. There is a little motor called a Power Door Lock Actuator. It sounds like that is the problem. Maybe it's wearing out.

 

yes th accuator and the motor are the same