brianmc

So, it might be time to finally upgrade from my 98 gs300. I know the 2013 gs350 has about 100 more horsepower, but I was very surprised how loud the engine was during the test drive compared to my 98 gs300. This might be a deal breaker for me. Anyone know what the deal is? Less sound insulation in newer models?

jkeifer3

The engine in my 2013 sounds like a Singer sewing machine that needs oiling. I suppose it's the fuel injection system.

2GSKaizen

iTrader: (1)

I think most of the engine noise is due to the fact that your new gs has direct injection, and the old one was only port. The new one also has a timing chain, which is louder than the belt style in those old inline 6's. These motors due tend to be a little bit louder. I think the engine noise being louder was kind of the point on this car. Lexus is just trying to change their image, and go for sportiness on some models, instead of super quiet luxury. I've had 2 gs300's and a gs430, and I LOVE what they did with the new gs. Might have to go to an ES or LS to get that old quiet Lexus interior.

Joeb427

iTrader: (1)

The '13 GS has a Intake Sound Generator that makes the engine louder.
I imagine you can disconnect it.

jtrue28

Yup, cut that sound generator off and you're good to go.

I don't hear the direct inject ticking that everyone complains about. It's been about 6 degrees here all winter, so forgive me if I keep my windows up and the heat blowing in my face. There is ZERO chance I will ever hear the engine while inside the car with the windows up.*

*you do hear the growl of the sound generator if you get on it though.

brianmc

Thanks for the replies. I'm afraid I'm no mechanic. How would I cut off the sound generator and is that something I could get the dealer to do before my next test drive?

Joeb427

iTrader: (1)

You wouldn't literally cut it off.You probably would disconnect it and plug the holes or maybe swap it out with a last generation GS intake.

hypnotika

engine noise? I've heard it all now...a prius or the like may be the way to go for you, my friend.

Schmexus

Considering its partly responsible for the extra ~100hp I'm willing to live with it.

The generator, that is. Good luck passing cars on the highway without that hooked up.

JellyBean

I too considered removing the sound generator and found this thread in the IS2G forum that should help you identify it. Changed my mind after driving the car for a while and left it in... for now. Don't let it be a deal-breaker. Good luck!

Joeb427

iTrader: (1)

The sound generator serves no purpose for power,just noise.

yardie876

The sound generator/intake can in fact be swapped out with the one from the 3GS for a quieter setup. The dealer will not do this for you, however. Is it the grow that really bother you or the engine chatter? Because the growl is completely absent unless you really step on it...

2GSKaizen

iTrader: (1)

You won't be able to "cut it off". Below is a picture of the device itself. It's just a tube that opens when it sees you put your foot down, or a (low vacuum situation). When you are at idle (high vacuum situation) the suction from the engine holds the door closed. I haven't looked at one very close but there might be a way to "plug" the hole that faces the firewall to prevent any unwanted noise, or maybe there is a vacuum line that you could disconnect and plug to keep it from working.

http://lexusenthusiast.com/images/we...-generator.jpg

jtrue28

Jesus. Please don't "cut" anything off. I was being incredibly sarcastic.

Schmexus

I thought it was pretty obvious I was being sarcastic, too.