Hello everyone, I've recently become the owner of a 2013 Lexus ES300h with 90,000 miles. The car was meticulously maintained with services every 5,000 miles at a Lexus dealership. I've noticed a strange issue: when I stop the car, there are 3-4 small rattles or vibrations as the internal combustion engine (ICE) shuts off. This usually happens when the engine is still cold and doesn't stop running until the car has completely stopped, since the EV mode doesn’t activate until the engine warms up. However, when the engine is warm, the ICE shuts off before the car comes to a complete stop, and the transition to EV mode is much smoother, making any vibrations barely noticeable. I’m wondering if this is normal or if I might be facing an issue. Does anyone have similar experiences or any advice on what to check first if it’s not normal?

Thanks a lot!

 

Would you able to record these sounds?

 

Not normal. Engine shut off should be very smooth. Sometimes when it starts when stopped there’s a bit of shake.

 

There are pretty much 2-4 very minor shakes coming from below after the car is stopped, as the ICE shuts off. I shouldn't have mentioned rattle as no sound can be heard.

 

Thanks for your reply. I'm debating whether to go to the dealership now or wait to see if it gets worse or better. The shake is very minor. I can only notice it when the car comes to a full stop as the ICE shuts down. After the EV mode is ready, I can't feel it anymore.