Need some advice, my '04 LS430 seems to have developed a low speed noise that seems to go away after accelerating up to 10 mph or so. Almost a metallic whine it seems under a load when accerating. I've got just over 21,000 on it. It's running Dunlop M3 Winter's but the noise is power train related. Ideas?

 

have you gone to the dealerships and see if you car needs the tranny recall fix? i don't remember exactly, but i believe some initial ls430 they had problems and need a software upgrade or something?

 

Thanks for the suggestion. I had that recall applied a few months after I purchased so am thinking this may be something different. Guess its time for the drive to the dealer unless someone has any ideas.

 

unmm yeah in that case just bring it in. you got warranty anyway.

 

Thanks. Spent a bit of time this evening driving and seeing if I could do a better job in isolating it. Found that if engine rpm was between about 1,000 and 1,200 is when the noise seemed to appear and then disappear. At least in first and second gears, didn't hear it others due to winter tire noise overriding the peace and quiet I normally get with summer tires.

This may help when I call the dealer.

 

Well, discovered its an engine issue after all and will be headed to dealer. Got to a nice quiet spot and was able to hear it in most gears but only between the 900 - 1,200 rpm level and even in park which confirmed the engine issue. Now to see what is going on at the service shop.

 

ouch, that sounds like a bigger problem.... definitely bring it in soon!

 

Not as big a problem as initially expected. The A/C compressor is bad and resulting in the groaning noise I was hearing. Got it special ordered today, 3-5 business days and then another trip to replace it.

Dealer is great, brought a new RX330 to me to drive today while they took my car in and determined the issue then returned mine to me this afternoon. Already scheduled the same treatment for next week with what I hope will be a RX400h as a loaner since spouse has interest in one.