timboat

Hello, I have a Lexus IS 250 2007 with 55K and a week ago my engine developed a squealing noise from the engine. Probably the serpentine belt.
The noise has gotten worse this week and now added a rumbling and almost a random popping /grinding or thud noise as well from the top of the engine area.
Also the serpentine belt had more than 1/2 of play when I pressed it. Closer to 1 inch. it's condition looked good.
I sprayed WD-40 on the Idler pulley and alternator pulley (and some on the belt) the squealing has subsided, but rest of the noises remain.

I made a video as it is very difficult to explain a noise in words.

Notice the clicking after the 40th second of the video...

Ideas on what needs fixing?

Thanks!!

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

Since the 2IS is notorious for having water pump issues, I'd start there. But the alternator has also seen its fair share of issues. Lastly, the tensioner pulley has only a few mentioned cases of it needing to bee replaced on here. Less likely to be that.

But the squealing is probably the belt, while the grinding/rumbling noises are probably the WP bearing going completely out.

timboat

Thanks! I i will take a closer look at the water pump and look for evidence.

08treefidd

iTrader: (2)

Have a listen with a mechanics stethoscope. Harbor Freight and even Autozone sell them for pretty cheap. It will greatly help locating the noise.

Skier76

Could be an idler pulley bearing as well.

2013FSport

iTrader: (2)

Listening with a scope or even a long wood stick or screw driver will ID the noise.
Turn off the AC repeat test and lastly, simply take the belt off and feel each pulley by hand.

Kikiwhanki

Inspect the belt since its only one belt driven. Mine has this sound about some weeks ago but it turned out to be something else... GearBox oil pump, i would hear the noise from cold start but after driving about 5 minutes then the sounds become super quiet like a Lexus should be, good luck buddy

timboat

I replaced the water pump and that was 100% of the problem. The old water pump with 55k on it had bad bearings and was making the grinding sound. I bought the "Asin" replacement on Amazon for $90 and long life Toyota fluid for $25, the serpentine belt for $20 and $6 for new kit of plastic snaps for the plastic engine cowlings. All in all this job took me all day in my garage, but only needed a few basic tools and the YouTube videos were tremendously helpful. It's been a week now after the replacement and the car is back to normal with no issues. The self tightener of the belt is really nice. I didn't even know those existed! Not bad for less than $200 and about 7 hours of my Saturday. Thanks for the help! I saved hundreds and learned a lot about modern car engines!

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

Another bad WP added to the list! LOL!

Glad it was what I had suspected and that the replacement went smoothly! Good job on the DIY.