Tybodaddy

First, I’m new to the board and a BIG thank you to those posting how to’s. I just programmed two keys!

Now for the problem. I just had the drive belts replaced on an ’02 RX300 with 85K on it. As I was preparing to leave the dealership (Classic Toyota, Waukegan IL) I heard a rattling sound coming from the steering column as I turned. The sound occurs when I turn left or right, but is more pronounced when turning left.

The service guy and the tech who installed the belts acknowledged the sound was not present when I brought it in, but deny there is any connection between the service and this new problem.

Am I justified in thinking the belt replacement caused the sound – not just a coincidence? What might that sound be and what is involved in repair. It sounds like a nut is rattling/scraping inside the steering column (by the steering wheel not at the floorboard).

Help & thanks.

Lexmex

Welcome to the Club.

Have someone see if they can hear the noise from outside the vehicle and try to pinpoint it.

tromly

Welcome to CL, good luck with diagnosing the problem !

sktn77a

iTrader: (2)

If it wasn't making that sound when you brough it in, yes, it's fair to say thet the belt replacement has caused it, directly or indirectly. Sounds like they are either too tight or too loose or the wrong belts (remember, the new mechanics have to learn on someone's car).

Nad1370

Belt replacement has nothing to do with your current problem.
The service guy and tech though were wrong on not looking over your vehicle to tell you what the real problem was. They could've at least take time to look at it.

Your problem could be a steering shaft going bad.

I personally would go back to the dealer and have them diagnose it for free since you were just there.

Welcome aboard

salimshah

I too am surprised that the dealership let you drive away with the noise. If they were booked that day, they should have gone out of their way for another day. From Lexus, I would expect that they come and pick the RX from work or home and drive it back.

Some thing may have come off or dropped in there. In any case, it should be looked into.

If something was drpped while at shop, then the service should be free, and if something came off, then expect labor charges. If it was Lexus dealership, I would expect them to eat the labor charge [if less than 1/2 hr], just because they released the RX and caused you an extra trip/down-time.

Salim