Pleasehelp

I have a 2003 Lexus RX-300. After a full stop upon acceleration, it has been sporadically hesitating and making an odd rough grinding or rumbling type noise. Today it happened twice. Any idea what it could be?

Thanks so much!

salimshah

Brakes could be dragging due to problem in the caliper or it can be a case of simple neglect ... when was the brake fluid purged and replaced?


Salim

Pleasehelp

Thanks so much. Caliber is a possibility. The car has been maintained very well and it is definitely not a fluid problem. To add to my description it almost feels as if you ran something over, like a branch when it happens. Does that bring any new thoughts on the cause? I have now done a lot of reading and it seems that these cars have a major transmission defect and I am getting nervous this might be related to this. Any thoughts on that?

Pleasehelp

So, I brought it in and of course, it did not make the sound. Today I went on the highway and it made a grinding noise every time I stepped on the gas. Then it made a continuing low grind/rumble at speeds over 60. Any ideas? I am going to try to bring it in tomorrow but in light of the weather not sure it will work. . . THANK YOU

salimshah

Next logical step is to trace the source of the sound .... left/right/front/rear wheel(s), engine compartment, cabin, glovebox etc.

Salim

Pleasehelp

It is coming from the right passenger side. I believe it is not inside the car . . i.e. glovebox but either under the hood or right wheel. Thank you.

salimshah

Chock rear wheels and front left. Jack up the front right. Put the trans in "N". Spin the wheel and apply brake. Let off the brake and try spinning the wheel again. See if you can hear the scraping noise.

Unmount the wheel and examine the pads.

Salim

mark4009

Re the hesitation problem, you might want to have a look at the thread "Hesitation On Acceleration--2012 RX 350"

hypervish

That doesn't apply here, these RX's do not have drive by wire.

Australian

I believe it is the belts in the transmission.

hypervish

I assume you are referring to the CVT transmission in the newer hybrid RX's in regards to the thread mentioned above, correct?

Australian

wasnt thinking u140e