I own a 2001 RX300 When only one rear window is down a loud reverbrating noise pulses through out the SUV. It vibrates my ears and is extremely un-nerving. If I roll down another window or open the sun roof the noise goes away. Has anybody else encountered this problem. If so how did you resolve it ?

 

wind turbolence? :-). Everyone that opens one window at high speeds encounters this "problem", in any car... thats why you have to open two of your windows, if you want to avoid the turbolence...

 

It's also another reason on the RX300's that went you press the "one touch open" on the sunroof, the sunroof doesn't quite open all the way. If you were to press open a second time, the sunroof would open another inch or two, however, you get that same "resonating" sound with the sunroof open all the way.

 

You will find plenty of posts on this issue.

You have already discovered the solution as well.

Salim

 

The “helicopter” noise you describe is common to modern vehicles that have had extensive wind tunnel development resulting in laminar airflow over major surfaces. When you open one window or the moonroof to just the right aperture, you will create a chamber resonance similar to that produced in a flute, but at a very low frequency.

We’ve discussed this effect many times in the last few years – for a review of all the posts, try an advanced search (under the search button at the top of this thread) on "helicopter" for all articles on the RX forums. You'll get about eight threads describing the phenomenon in detail, its causes and cures.

 

All RX300 have that issue. You'll also get the buffet noise from the moonroof at about 45 mph.

Turn the fan on to medium or higher setting, or open another window or moonroof.

 

My 330's moonroof does it between 30-40mph, so, I just drive faster!