ES 300H / Whining sound in reverse
10-10-18, 11:54 AM
#1
Driver School Candidate
Thread Starter
ES 300H / Whining sound in reverse
I have noticed a fairly loud whining sound when I am in reverse in my 2019 ES 300H. I was told by someone that it was normal but when I contacted Lexus and my local dealer, they both said that it is not normal. Have any of you experienced that?
Last edited by billm555; 10-10-18 at 12:03 PM.
10-11-18, 06:30 AM
#2
Lexus Champion
What you may be hearing is the electric motor. When traveling in reverse, the ES Hybrid is powered by the electric motor, not the internal combustion engine, unlike a normal car,
10-11-18, 07:34 AM
#3
Forum Administrator
iTrader: (2)
I've seen it mentioned in another member's review thread
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/es-...y-es-300h.html
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/es-...y-es-300h.html
10-21-18, 07:35 AM
#4
Driver School Candidate
Since starting this thread and after doing further research, I have found that the noise is normal and is the by-product of the Lexus Proximity Notification System which is designed to warn bystanders that the car (when driven in reverse and at low speeds) is in their proximity. It's also now required by law on all new hybrids. The law was enacted after several thousand injuries and deaths were caused by hybrids that people were unable to hear (hearing and sight impaired individuals).
Some owners have disconnected the system but I would think that could open them up to some increased liability if they hit someone. I have gotten used to the sound and am actually glad that it does what it is designed to do.
Some owners have disconnected the system but I would think that could open them up to some increased liability if they hit someone. I have gotten used to the sound and am actually glad that it does what it is designed to do.
10-21-18, 07:55 AM
#5
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