RAK402

I have a 2005 Lexus RX 350 which is making a whining noise from under the hood (just started about a week ago). I was wondering if this is a common ailment and what it might be.

Thank you

Lexuswiz

iTrader: (1)

What is the mileage on the vehicle? Common culprits of whine are alternator, water pump, and idler pulleys for the 3.5L.

BadDogMax

And low power steering fluid!

RAK402

Thank you both for the very quick responses.

The RX 350 has 90K miles on it.

I have checked all of the fluids, and they are all at the appropriate levels, including the power steering fluid (thank you for that suggestion-that made me check that one first).

Any further assistance would be greatly appreciated.

RAK402

Lexuswiz

iTrader: (1)

When is whining? Idle, with A/C on, Drive, etc?

RAK402

It whines whenever the motor is running.

The sound changes pitch with the throttle setting.

Lexuswiz

iTrader: (1)

Hmmm.... Since your 350 uses a timing chain, it leads me to believe that the issue is stemming from the serpentine belt side. Do you have access to tools? I would use a long screwdriver and probe the alternator and A/C compressor (with it on and off). If it doesn't sound like a shot bearing there then all that's left is 2 idler pulleys and the water pump which are harder to probe. If its not the alternator, personally, my bet would be on the water pump as I've seen more WPs go bad over pulleys but it's hard to say unless I can see and hear it in front of me. Also use visual inspection of all the drive pulleys and idler pulleys, if it wobbles, that's probable cause.