BossTweed

So I’ve noticed when 1st starting my LS after about a minute or 2 I get a rattling noise almost like a chattering that’ll last for like 30 seconds then stop. Them come back again a little softer but slightly increasing back to the same level then stop. This’ll go one for about 3-5 minutes or so and then it goes away.

things to note is this;

1.) it only happens once it’s been sitting overnight and the engine is cold.
2.) after the initial startup for the day, it doesn’t come back.
3.) not sure if climate plays a part but I live in the Northeastern part of the U.S where it’s pretty warm (Raleigh,NC to be exact)
4.) Not noticing any sag or deviations in the suspension when driving.

I was thinking if this has the air suspension and the noise is intermittent, could this be the compressor maybe the dampers or bushings or something simple like that? If so, I've notice the cost of a compressor is an unholy amount of money from the dealer $2500+ but noticed that they’re much cheaper from suncore and arnott. Could I use an aftermarket compressor if it needs to be replaced?

I’ve recorded the noise a tried to upload it but couldn’t be the video is 3 minutes long and the file was too big but will see if I can cut it down.

thanks for any feedback

swfla

iTrader: (1)

Youtube has several videos about Toyota/Lexus brake accumulator/pump noise. It'll help you identify the noise. If it is the air suspension system(pump near right front fender), stick with OEM Lexus. Others aren't "fully compatible" with Lexus. Let us know and we can give you more guidance and sources for parts. It's always smart to hook up a high end Lexus compatible code reader with analytics to see what comes up.

Anfanger

You have to seat next to the right wheel to hear the air compressor. LS460 engines are known to rattle when it is cold.

swfla

iTrader: (1)

Yes, the starting rattle is very common too. It's normal.

BossTweed

oh ok lol it’s my 1st Lexus an was a bit concerned and trying to feel my way around it and get to know it like I did my 07 expedition. Speaking of which I plan on doing the plugs on this thing. It has 165K miles on it an extra planned to do it myself. I’ve watched a few videos on it. It doesn’t seem too bad of a task to do or should I just take it to the dealer or Toyota?

swfla

iTrader: (1)

You need to remove battery and unbolt abs to get to rear plugs. It's a bit tight so allow a couple of hours labor. A DIY for sure. Also, at this mileage get new foam boots for plugs as there's a good chance of deterioration and maybe even oil from valve cover leaks. If the plugs were done once before, every 100k is more than adequate as these are hardened electrodes that really don't wear much. Plugs will cost you about $135/8. Buy from a major store as counterfeits are everywhere. Clean two MAF sensors and throttle body too. Seat air filters under front seats are likely filthy too. This will keep you busy and feel good too. Go to drivers.lexus.com and create an account, enter your VIN and you can see what dealer services were performed historically. You can also enter your own services.

miket000

Press your ride height button by the shifter. That will trigger your ride height compressor to turn on for a minute. If you hear the same noise you were referring to change these... https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-...l#post11198849

Boykie

If it's the compressor's noise - replacing dryer intake filter (it's tucked in behind the bumper area) will make it almost noiseless, if it's not too far gone. 15usd part.

BossTweed

Thanks a million,
I’ve been wondering about this since I’ve purchased the LS. WHERE in the world is the ride height button??? I have yet to find it. I have 2011 460L model. I can see the seat cooler a warmer button, the side shade and rear shade buttons but after that it’s just two flat grey buttons without anything assigned to it. Do all LS’s come with this feature?

Anfanger

If you don't have a ride height button, you likely don't have air suspension.

BossTweed

I could be mistaken but I’m almost positive I have due it having the same sort of bouncy feeling my old Lincoln Navigator but I could be wrong.

Anfanger

Look at your struts, if you see coils then you don't have air ride. Lexus coils (non-F) are very good, they feel like air ride set to somewhere between comfort and standard.

BossTweed

oh wow that’s a relief I don’t have them lol. It’s amazing that this thing floats as if it did. I guess now that would leave something else causing the noise because I just knew it had to be a compressor.
Thanks a mill once again

Boykie

Probably vvti rattle then, needs to be addressed sooner than later.

dan25man

@Boykie I have the same noise in the exact same conditions. What is involved in the VVTI fix? Is that new solenoids or can I take them out and clean them? Is there a way to get to them without removing the valve covers?