My GF called with a problem and I can't look at it. Here's her description: A loud grinding/ rattling sound coming from the drivers side of the engine, it happens whenever the car is idling or driving under 20 mph. After 20 there is still a noise but not as bad. Right when I start the car is the worst. it sounds like metal on metal but gives a slight "electrical problem" smell. 96 civic EX.

 

Start by checking the power steering pump, A/C compressor, alternator, and the idler pulley. There may be a bad bearing in one of those components. If no problems are found, you may need to check the timing belt and water pump.

 

You can try to localize such noises with a length of rubber hose. Hold one end to your ear and use the other end to listen at each part. Be very careful of moving parts.

Or take all the belts off and spin each part by hand checking for noise or looseness. If nothing seems obvious, start the engine with the belts off. Then if the noise is still there it's something related to the timing belt.

 

also if her car has never had her heat shield tied down, look at that as well. on the 6th gen, this is a very common problem that makes an annoying rattling sound.

 

but the smell?

 

Sounds like alternator. You forgot to mention what kind of car it is. If it's a ford or a chevy its probably the alternator. If it's a dodge it's probably the whole pile of crap. If it's a honda it's probably a leaf stuck somewhere.

 

Here's a picture so you have a face with the help request

 

Is it manual? Maybe the throwout bearing or alternator.

 

Bout to say the same.... idk about the smell sounds like alt but wouldnt it not be running with an alternator so bad?

 

wheel bearing?