i have a my99 wrx and whenever i do a cold engine start (e.g left over night) it makes a grinding noise for about 2 seconds then its fine... when i start it when the engine is already warm theres no problem....
is this my starter motor if so how much do they cost to replace

Give Japanese wholesale spares in Wangara a call.

They're an importer/ wrecker. buy a secondhander to save $$$

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So when you crank and the engine is running for that quick two seconds, makes a grinding noise? Sounds like that the teeth on the starter motor are'nt springing back away from the flywheel teeth and just grinding against them when the engine is running. Your options are pull it out and take it to a auto elec to have a look at, or buy a second hand or new one. If it was my car i would take the starter to a auto elec.

Had the same thing happen a month or so ago (on my Evo), did that for a few days and then gave up completely. Got a starter motor from a wrecker (old one was beyond repair apparently) and all good.

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cheers for the knowledge guys.... do u know how much it woud cost to replace it for get it fixed?

Its easy enough to remove yourself.
it sits just under the intercooler,

so disconnect your battery (VERY IMPORTANT, do +ve and -ve.)
take off your intercooler, remover the +ve battery lead from the starter motor and its just several bolts to take it out.
better than paying someone $80 and hour to do it..

The starter might just need a grease so the cog moves in and out easily....check this yourself.

Steve.