i have a 1990 Lexus LS400 with 220,*** miles on it. it still runs extremely well, but i have started to notice a slight change from the engine bay. you know how a new car is suppose to run moderate-low noise while driving?! well besides the fact that i have aftermarket mufflers, theres continuous noise from the engine bay. its even more noticeable when i accelerate and i pass by parked cars. i can hear the noise just bounce back. it might be a sign of old age, but i was wondering what could it be? i want to be able to have that moderate-low noise again. any help would be much appreciated. want to do whatever service is necessary before summer time hits. thank you in advance

-alex

 

Can you describe the sound in terms of character?? Squealing (like dry serpentine belt), clatter, rattle, ping, etc etc. Burning any oil (or having to add any between changes)? Change in the sound with rpm, brake application, or turning the steering wheel? When going over bumps?

Your first post was a little sparse in the descriptive category...........

 

no squealing.....just installed a brand new serpentine belt a few days ago

clattering and rattling are more descriptive words...i just cant find the terminology to define it.

i dont have any problems with the oil. the oil level is normal and i dont have to add any in between adding gas. it's noticeable from the time you turn on the car to the time that the car is warmed up(engine temperature being normal). yes it get a bit louder when the rpm's go up. doesnt deal with brake application and it doesnt deal with going over a bump. thats all i can really tell you...and if anything, it would be something with the internals of the engine

 

your egr tube is broken

 

well i'll take a look at it whenever the snow clears ....thanks for giving me some direction. do you happen to know if it's a quick fix or not? and what is the average price parts+labor that i should be looking at spending. thanks for the help

 

looking at 120 for parts and about 200 for labor

 

I think I know that sound man.
If you hit the gas it goes loud for a second then disappears, but it is only really noticeable when it is quiet outside or there is something to bounce the noise back to you. I have a 92 SC400 with 213000 miles on it and I am so paranois the car runs like new ( touch wood ) but I am always driving with no radio on and looking for mysterious sounds.