2000 Lexus RX 300 2000 RX 300

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MEMBER
2000 LEXUS RX 300
6 CYL
AWD
AUTOMATIC
175,000 MILES

My 2000 Lexus RX 300 has begun making a rattling noise from the engine. The car has 175,000 miles on it. At first my independent mechanic thought that the metallic noise was indicating a transmission problem so he referred me to a transmission specialist. After driving and reviewing the car, the transmission specialist has all but ruled out a transmission issue but isn't sure where the noise is originating. He feels that it could either be a cracked flywheel or a cracked crank to the motor assembly. But the transmission, at a high cost, would have to be pulled to completely inspect the flywheel. Or the engine pan would have to be pulled to fully inspect the crank. Both costly procedures that may lead to no answer. Do the potential issues sound realistic or do you have another idea? The car runs ok but just gives off this rather loud rattling noise.

1 Reply

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,938 POSTS

Hi there,

I would just about discount a cracked crank shaft, but a cracked drive plate (autos don't have conventional flywheels) is a possibility, cracking can be around the torque converter attach points or at the crack shaft attach bolt holes, you will see the torque converter attach bolts with the starter removed, I am not sure if there is an access cover on the bell housing to get a better view of the drive plate attach bolts, but you may see them with a mirror and torch through the starter access port.

Mark (mhpautos)