I have a 96 ES 300 with 151K. Car has been amazing. No major repairs, just regular maintenance, timing belt, etc.

The last couple of days, I've noticed a rattle near my right rear tire well....I'm guessing it's the strut or axle since it only rattles when driving over uneven pavement or small bumps.

Can anyone give me a possible diagnosis? I went to my mechanic and he wants to charge me a $19.95 rack fee just to look at it. Grease job or WD40 help? I thought I would try this forum first since you've been so helpful in the past.

I would appreciate any help or tips that you might have.



RM

 

rolloman,
Since no one seems to want to post, I'll chime in my 1/2 cent after taxes. Your problem is too " broad ". It could be any number of things. Bushing, ball joint, wheel bearing, sway bar end links, strut, spring, etc etc.

jack up the car, with your hands at 3 and 9 o'clock shake the wheel. There should not be any looseness. Repeat at 12 and 6 o'clock. If the wheel moves at all. Find and replace the defective part.

have a friend drive the car SLOWLY, preferably over a speed bump while you walk along listening for noise. Conversely you can bounce the car while he's driving if you can't find a speed bump. Just be careful


Regards

 

I'm also guessing it's a strut-related problem, perhaps one of your struts is not functioning anymore. An independent auto service shop like Midas will most likely not be able to service your suspension needs to your satisfaction since they would have to order in new parts from an outside vendor or dealership, which could take a few weeks to a month It is probably a good idea to stop by a Toyota or Lexus (preferably Toyota) dealership and have the problem diagnosed. They should not charge you for the check-up; if they do, go to another dealership.

FYI, I sort of had the same problem when I had my '96 ES, but only happens during the winter season...

 

Just back from my Toyota dealer. He said it's the strut. It's not a safety issue at this point. It only rattles when it's cool in the morning. Probably will become more persistent during the winter like you've experienced Nick.

I'm going to move forward and hope for the best. Even though Toyota dealers remove a bit of the sticker shock, not enough removed for me to do repair at this point.

Thanks big time for your .02! I appreciate your help!

RM

 

You're welcome rolloman. I just remembered one thing about the '96 ES, and that is that a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) exists for the squeaking rear suspension. Here is the list of TSBs for the 1996 ES300. The TSB in question is #58 from the list. If you want to, you could try to bring the list over to the Lexus dealership and show the TSB highlighted, and maybe they could repair or replace the suspension joint/strut at a reduced cost. Just a thought and idea