Starter noise after cold start - should I worry?

[Sterner]

Hi all, just bought an -97 523, 63k miles. The car is well cared for and serviced, feels (& looks) superb! There is one little thing I noticed however. When starting cold, the starter (?) makes a rattling noise just after the engine starts, the noise lasts for about a second. Happens not every time but say 3 out of 4 times. Always perfect when starting warm. I'm looking for some good advice, is it something to worry about (i.e. could it lead to some kind of expensive engine damage if not corrected), etc. Naturally, it is difficult to demonstrate the problem to a service technician unless I leave it there overnight and have some "luck"...

Many thanks in advance!

Haakan

[Sterner]

Found an answer that seems reasonable, "nothing to worry about": http://member.rivernet.com.au/btaylor/BMWText/technical/EngineNoiseColdOnly.html

Guess I can safely wait until the next service to get it fixed then. Or maybe someone here persuades me that pulling the starter motor, clean/lube and put it back is a piece of cake on the -97 523i5sp. If it were my Saab 9k I would not hesitate one second, a "one wrench job" according to Haynes service handbook :)

Best,
/Haakan