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Grind at or immediatly after startup

83 views 5 replies 5 participants last post by  Dr. Dyno  
#1 ·
Hi there I have a 2008 Rav4 limited V6 with 236k miles. When I test drove the vehicle no problems. After driving home, 1 hour on the freeway, the vehicle started to make some noise I cannot find. First there is a slight grind at or just after startup that does not continue more than 1-2 seconds. I did replace the starter and solenoid as the Bendix gear did have some wear and tear on it but the noise stayed. Then I replaced the relay thinking it was hanging, no change. Next there is a while from something that increases with rpm. Not sure as I cannot get under the car while it's running. The HVAC fan whine I understand. Any ideas?
 
#5 ·
At that mileage, the entire valvetrain is suspect. I'd do some simple and cheap troubleshooting, and keep driving.

Pull the serpentine belt and start it beltless. Noise still there then not something driven by the belt.

If oil level is full, change the oil and filter. Use a thicker oil. Pick a different brand of filter than what is it in now. If oil level is not full, add a pint of STP synthetic Gold bottle.

Here's a good combo for troubleshooting engine noises that won't break the bank:

Check the ATF level. To rule out AT pump noise, change the ATF filter and refill pan with new ATF. If AWD, I'd also change out the transfer case gear oil to rule out a harmonics.
 
#6 ·