I've noticed lately that when I shut the car off, there is this groaning type noise for a second.
Any ideas?

Its only after I pull the key out.

 

My sounds like coolant is pushing itself around the engine bay, figured the car was doing what it was supposed to do.

 

Electronic park brake being applied??? Might be an idea to check the cabling and mechanism... A little copper grease might help.

 

Mine does it at times also. I've always thought it was the vent doors inside the dash closing.

 

Well thats a seperate noise too, but I know what that is ( creaking sound, then a thud!)

I'm thinking this short groaning noise might be climate control related, although it occurs even if the climate control is off.

And again, its strange that it doesn't occur until I remove the key from the ignition.

 

Make sure you park level, then hold EPB paddle down as you remove the key. Does it stop the noise?

 

Just tried the above.

Yes it does stop the noise!

 

Aha. It's the EPB mechanism. Needs maintenance I suggest, or it'll seize at some point

 

Thank you, JagV8!

I searched but found nothing on epb maintenance.

What does it entail?

 

Disassembly and repair of the EPB actuator.
Greasing/replacement of the cables.
Replacement/repair of the calipers.

As required.

 

Thanks Mikey, I'll have to put it on the list