I realize this has already been discussed many times. Some part of the hybrid system makes a moderate to loud screeching noise when the car starts moving initially. It's gotten to the point where people are staring at me when I pull away in parking lots because it's so loud. A few questions: - Do the gen II cars also make this noise? - Why don't the Lexus hybrids make this noise? - Is there anything that can be done to lessen the noise? Thanks.
1. Yes, but not as loud due to a different design. 2. Good question 3. Probably not. You're hearing the components "sing" as they switch on and off rapidly converting DC to 3 phase AC power.
sounds like it could be a few things... 1. brakes... but you would hear this while slowing under 8mph (every time) 2. wheel bearing... everything else should be pretty quiet.
I sort of figured that, as I have heard that sound as well. It sounds more electrical than mechanical. I only notice it when I first turn the car on before backing out of the garage (the walls make it much more noticeable). I wouldn't call it loud though. But it is a distracting sound, not one that you would expect from a conventional car.
I've had mine over a year now, and as many unusual noises as it makes, I've never heard anything I would describe as a "moderate to loud screeching noise," either when the car starts moving or any other time. (I, too, start it in a garage.) In fact, the only thing that's even remotely like screeching (but I wouldn't describe it that way) occurs sometimes when I shut the car off and the air conditioning has been running. But that sound is soft.
I would never classify the singing sound as screeching. I know people describe things differently, but to me screeching implies a mechanical issue, such as brakes or bearings, in which case this is not a normal sound. Tom
