Charles407

Hi all,

One night as I was pulling into my driveway my Es just started making this odd noise, now the noise only seems to happen at cold starts and then goes away, it’s coming from the front end, it just started, so I’m hoping it something small.

Clutchless

Look at this http://carspecmn.com/toyota-and-lexu...tle-2gr3gr4gr/

The 5th gen ES does not have direct injection.

Then read this long thread on the RX350 forum as it has the same engine https://www.clublexus.com/forums/hyb...cold-soak.html

I found that changing the oil, making sure it was properly filled, not over filled or under filled helped. I also ran a bottle of Liqui-Moly engine cleaner while it idled before draining the oil and added a bottle of Liqui-Moly Moly something engine additive with the new oil and think that helped with the start up noise. Also be sure to clean out the oil filter base with spray brake cleaner or replace it ($25) as they get clogged up with gunk and reduce oil flow.

Wilson2000

One poster said he fixed his noise by switching from 5W-30 to 10W-30 engine oil. There are several threads on CL regarding this start-up noise.

Charles407

[QUOTE=Clutchless;10950678]Look at this http://carspecmn.com/toyota-and-lexu...tle-2gr3gr4gr/

The 5th gen ES does not have direct injection.

Then read this long thread on the RX350 forum as it has the same engine https://www.clublexus.com/forums/hyb...cold-soak.html

Thanks for the links, but it doesn't even sound a close to the noise that this Rx had I need to upload a better video.

Charles407

I'm trying to find some of those trends now, I was thinking of telling Lexus to do that. But as of right now they said that my Es would not recreate the noise so they might have it for a while.

Charles407

If anyone hasn't been able to see the first video I posted here is one I uploaded to Youtube and posted here.

ESh

I was able to see the video. That noise has nothing to do with the oil.
That’s most likely a roller bearing, water pump, alternator...

Charles407

The werid thing is the Lexus of Orlando can't recreate the noise at all, but They came back and said they did hear another noise. The pulleys are making a noise that I never heard before. I was already approached and was told that my drive belt needed to be replaced ”in my head AnnaMae is at 168k so go ahead and replace it” but now they are saying should change the pulleys while I'm at it!

ESh

Yes, change them all (3 of them) together with the belt.

Clutchless

It is a good idea to replace the pulleys with the belt at that mileage and I too agree they are the most likely source of your noise. I bet you will find it much quieter after they are replaced. Have them check the belt auto-tensioner also.

Charles407

I have decided to go ahead and do change all 3 at the same time, I just have to figure out when being that I'm still currently on furlough. Question of theory I was recommended not to do a transmission service because of the high mileage I could run the risk of tranny problem later; the only reason I would like to get it done Is because I can't find records of the service And this could be the first car I have ever owned to reach 200k in a few months

Wilson2000

I did not listen to the noise in the video until now, after several people commented that it was not the typical start-up noise and not related to the oil, but rather, due to the accessory belt pulleys. It's amazing the dealer couldn't reproduce it and that it is intermittent, only when cold, as it is loud as hell when it is making the noise! It is likely due to one bearing on one pulley, and since you are furloughed and short on $, you (or your mechanic) could easily isolate which bearing/pulley is bad by removing the belt (when cold) and turning each component by hand, including the, idler pulleys, tensioner pulley, alternator pulley, AC clutch pulley, power steering pulley, and feel for rough resistance while spinning.

On the other hand, if you had the money, as others suggested, with your miles, it wouldn't be a bad idea to replace the usual suspect pulleys as preventive maintenance. However, it is certainly not necessary to replace them all when only one is bad.

Clutchless

Go ahead and just do a drain and fill on your transmission. It only replaces 2 of the 7 quarts and will not disrupt anything to cause damage. However, the addition of the new clean fluid with fresh additives will help it shift better and reduce future wear.

Charles407

I have my car back, so far no noise but I am going to get the pulleys and belt did at a later date. Thank you guys for the input 🤗