A couple of weeks ago I noticed a loud (not high-pitched) vibrating sound. It sounds like something under my car is loose but I don't see anything. It is most noticeable when I first start my car after it has been sitting a while. It seems worse when I am in reverse or braking. The cold also seems to make it worse. The noise goes away after my car warms up though (after maybe 10 min.). Does anyone have any idea what it could be? I am going to take it in, but I don't want to get screwed and have to pay a bunch of money just because I am a woman and have no idea what the problem might be. I REALLY appreciate any help. Thank you!
2007-10-25 04:03:05 · 5 answers · asked by ANGEL 5 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Car Makes ➔ Toyota
I think I am at about 28,000 miles...thanks for the answers so far. : )
2007-10-25 04:27:30 · update #1
Thank you all SO MUCH for your answers! I haven't taken it in yet, but when I do at least I have a better idea now of what it might be. I can't really choose a best answer though. They are all good. Thanks again! : )
2007-10-26 05:20:57 · update #2
How many miles are on the car? It may be something covered by the warrany. I just had my 06 corolla in because it had loud thumps when the car shifted (auto trans) and the part and labor were covered by the warranty.
I am also a single woman so I know how you feel about being at their mercy. good luck.
2007-10-25 04:12:18 · answer #1 · answered by Mom of 2 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I had the same problem on my 2005 Camry when it was new. It ended up being the following:
When car is cold, engine runs at higher RPM which puts more force on the drivetrain while stopped (or going slow) in drive or reverse. The torque caused my engine to tilt, causing a plastic intake component to vibrate against another part.
I tested this by stopping the car when warm, putting it in drive, lightly hitting the accelerator until I could hear the noise again. I think there was a service bulletin for my car, but I'm not sure about yours.
This was only my personal experience and it may or may not be your problem. I hope the info helps, regardless.
2007-10-25 10:43:03 · answer #2 · answered by Andrew M 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You might have a loose belt. Try putting pressure on the belts (car off) with your fingers. It shouldn't give more than half an inch or so. If it's really loose, you should have it adjusted, and the mechanic will probably charge you 50-90 dollars.
You could have a different problem though, and it's really hard to give a specific diagnosis without seeing the car in person. I would recommend checking with the local high-schools. Many have auto shop classes which might be willing to diagnose and/or repair your vehicle for little or no fee. Best of Luck to you.
2007-10-25 04:15:43 · answer #3 · answered by xooxcable 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
and most importantly if toyota tells you that you need some service that doesnt sound right, or just want to be sure, take it to get a second opinion but dont tell them you alredy had it checked so you can see if they find the same thing wrong
2007-10-25 07:07:26 · answer #4 · answered by Daniel P 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Sounds like it's the drive belt tensioner going bad...you cannot adjust the drive belt, the tensioner is suppose the put tension on it. Take it in, should be covered by your warranty....
2007-10-25 08:38:03 · answer #5 · answered by Toyman 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋