High Pitch Whining Noise in Dash

Have tried searching around but am not coming across anything that sounds familiar. I have a high pitch noise coming from what I can best describe as inside the dash.

I can hear it when I am idling , it starts maybe 3-5 seconds after the car is started and increases and decreases when the throttle is pressed and released.
Manual Transmission - but being in gear or out of gear has no impact, the sound is still present.

Not coming through stereo.
AC is off but when turned on the sound increases slightly.

It sounds like its coming from either the steering column or directly behind the gauge cluster. There is a slight variance in tone when I turn the lights on and off.

I do not hear it in when I open the hood, its only noticeable inside the car.

My guess is that its something electrical but have no idea where to start ?

Any help is appreciated.

 

Alternator bearings would be my first stop with a mechanics stethoscope, based on your description.

 

Alternator. Yes it makes no sense.

 

Thank you @Clearwater Bill and @treyus30 , any recommendations for replacement Alternator ?

 

So you've confirmed the problem?

My personal preference is to use a local electrical shop and have them rebuild the OE unit. I have often found it to be no more expensive than an OTC parts house reman and much more reliable, with a 'local' warranty.

 

OEM alternators are far superior
Rebuild yours

 

if you don't have a stethoscope, a piece of wood closet pole transmit sound very well. Just put up against the side of the alternator and listen. If it's the bearing, you'll hear it loud and clear. I'd also look for a rebuild kit and fix it. I know the brushes are an easy fix, not sure how hard it would be to remove and press on new bearings. Good luck.

 

I went with the GM upgrade, but ya try to confirm somehow
I was actually glad to upgrade, so I didn't spend too much time figuring out what failed in the OEM

 

There are several upgrades that you can do, I've read several posts of people installing other branded alternators for more output.