1997 Lexus LS 400 Scraping/Rattling Noise Under Car

Tiny
RNANTZ
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 LEXUS LS 400
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 125,000 MILES
Lately when I start my Lexus I hear what sounds like a rattling/scraping type noise coming from under my car. Thinking it was a loose tailpipe or muffler I took it to a repairman this morning and asked him if he could find the source of the noise. He checked the undercarriage thoroughly and couldn't find anything loose. He said it could be the catalytic converter (it's never been replaced), but not to worry about it. I'm concerned about simply doing nothing and the noise is very aggravating and embarrassing when I pick up my buddies for golf (they already kid me about continuing to drive a 13-year-old vehicle). Interestingly, I don't hear the noise once I'm underway. It's only when I crank up and move the first twenty-five yards or so. Other than the noise the car has given me no problems (never has). I just want to be sure that allowing the noise to continue without really knowing its cause could be asking for trouble.
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Monday, August 30th, 2010 AT 4:07 PM

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Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,542 POSTS
Hello and thanks for donating

If there is nothing loose undercarriage visually, such as exhaust hangers or heat shields, than it's very possible that some of the insides of the cat. converter have broken and are rattling inside. The insides look like a honey comb but really hard, if a few pieces broke off it would definitely rattle up pretty good in the cat. converter. You should check out some other tips we have for rattling issues at https://www.2carpros.com/car_sounds/rattling.htm
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Monday, August 30th, 2010 AT 9:47 PM

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