Hi I just got a Z140bh used.

Whenever it starts up it makes a noise for about 5 seconds like the CD mechanism is moving around inside the unit.  There is no CD inside of it though.  (The unit does play CD's no problem)

I am wondering if that noise is normal or if there is something wrong. I had a X930BT which is about 90% the same as this unit, but it never had any noise like this.

Please let me know, thanks!

Is the screen moving in or out at all? If not, can you move it in and out if you do it manually?

I'm just wondering if the unit is trying to move the screen and it's binding somewhere. I've fixed a few avics that had this issue.

No the screen is not moving.  It was damaged a bit but I fixed it back to proper function .  You ever see the normal startup function?  I am just wondering if it is normally silent or if the CD or screen makes any start up sounds.  Thanks!

Normal operation is no noise or movement - unless the previous owner had set a custom LCD viewing angle. Then it will attempt to go to that angle each time the unit is turned on. Just a guess, but since you admit to a screen positioning problem, it might cause a mechanical noise as it attempts to make a minor angle adjustment. Look in the operations manual on how to set the screen angle, and make sure it is set to fully closed.