With the recent cold weather I've noticed that my car is making a weird rattling noise when starting up from cold. It usually disappears when the car is warm.

Don't know what the part is called so took a pic:

Any ideas on what the cause is and what can be done?

Edited 20 January, 200917 yr by simonlo

Thats your alternator dude. I think its just a "cold weather" thing TBH

It's never made that sound before though - only recently with the very cold weather. Anything to worry about?

Is there any other symptoms?

TBH i dont think there's a problem but i'm sure someone on here will have a definite answer for you

Some alternators have a slip clutch that can rattle. If the noise stops after warm up, I wouldn't worry about it.