muggie

I have a 2006 es 330 that just turned over 90,000 miles. My dad and I have done the regular maintenance on it so far but this weekend after a 3 hour drive, I turned the car back on and a loud whirring/humming/whining noise was coming from the engine. It get's slightly louder with acceleration, but I can barely hear it once I've picked up speed (but it's still there.) It still happens when I am in neutral. It sounds like it is coming from the passenger side of the engine. Close to the power steering pump area, but the power steering fluid is full (although it is a very dark/black color and has a slight smell...not sure if this is normal.) I'm not having any trouble or hesitation while steering. The rack is operating smoothly and it is not leaking. I plan on taking it into the shop but wanted to go in educated. Any ideas?

Hayk

iTrader: (1)

Take a long screw driver (1ft+) and put it on the alternator. Put the other end against your ear and listen. It will amplify the sound. If it's not that, keep searching for the sound by touching other components, such as your power steering pump.

You should replace your power steering fluid. Get some Toyota ATF T-IV. Fresh fluid is red.

Timothyj

I would say its the alternator. I was told this is a warning sigh that its going bad. Happened to me with my 04 ES.

muggie

Thanks everyone. It was indeed the alternator making the noise. The shop replaced it and now the noise is gone. Thanks for sharing; it made me feel better when that was their diagnosis too!