MikeW83

My ES will make similar vibration sounds... Some of the culprits that I've found:
1) The cupholders. Since they're so flimsy and poorly designed, they tend to rattle around slightly if something is in them. Remedy; Put them up and see if it goes away
2) The Gauge Cluster: Believe it or not, it will occasionally "lean forward" fractions of an inch. Try gently pushing it back into the dash, and see if it goes away.
3) Glove box door, if overloaded.
4) The cigarette lighter/removable ashtray insert. Especially if people have put change in there.
5) The change compartment to the left of the steering wheel.

Good luck! That's an interesting rattle, for sure :/

ml30306

Hi all, thank you for the suggestions. I believe it is not vital to the health of the car BUT the sound is truly annoying. Here some more diagnostics:

- Checked spare change, cup holders, etc., not related
- I don't think it is the engine or transmissions mounts, the sound is worst when the car is cold, the sound gets weaker as the engine warms up
- The sound immediately goes away I move the steering wheel side-to-side, even just a little
- I can feel the vibration in the gas pedal and steering wheel

I am thinking the sound is coming from the area where the steering wheel enters the floor panel. There is a rubber boot, may check under that to see what's there. I am considering taking it to the Lexus dealer where I bought it and have it checked (so far independent mechanics). Should I consider selling the car at some point this is one sound the car should not have!

ml30306

ISSUE SOLVED: The rattling came from the intake plenum. There are three hex bolts in the back, the one on the passenger side was missing, causing the plenum to vibrate against the metal bracket at certain speeds.

Thank you for all the advice, much appreciated!

Wendles

Congrats! Rattles are the worst and they feel so good to get rid of. Enjoy your quiet again ride!

eliel2300

This is a long shot, but would you happen to remember the bolt size.