Scotty,
I'm stationed overseas where all the dealerships rip off Americans. They all know it and set their prices together according to one dealership I spoke with. My issue is after overpaying for a 2014 Toyota Highlander I am hearing loud engine noise on start up. It sounds like metal hitting on warm up, it still has 6 months warranty what should I do?
It's a 3.5L V6 with 56Mi, it drives fine and has no codes. I bought this after your recommendations for my family's go vehicle
Did I read that right? 7 yr old vehicle with 56 genuine miles?
Yes
Umm, I apologise for being so inquisitive, but did you just buy the vehicle now/recently or back in 2014? Do you have all the proof of yearly oil/fluid changes performed on the vehicle?
Those Highlanders have VVT-i problems which would make a valve train noise and oil leaks are also common.
I suggest that you view this video by a Toyota Master Diagnostician on features and problems of the 2014-19 generation of Highlanders. He knows what he's talking about:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ey_hD7PUF88
Thank you!
Good info, I went to inspect for problem he described but found something else... It appears to be a fluid leak on top of the trans but since both the coolant and trans fluid are red I'm not sure of the origin.. I will post a photo when I figure out how. It's on the driver side under the battery area but not directly under it.
Upload your photo to imgur dot com, then post the link here.
Perhaps it's valve train noise. See Scotty's video and contrast and compare:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Ux667qwtGo
Yeah I just don't know if it's something to worry about. That's a different engine with different issues. My fuel trim isn't like that. I wonder if mine is making a sound because something is going to happen later down the road after the warranty expires.
Get a scan tool that has enhanced diagnostics/mode6 and live data modes. Perhaps you should drive around with family and/or friends who might notice oddly inconsistent readings coming from engine related functions.
Usually, fluid drips down due to gravity. Does it smell like coolant or oil?
Try using this to find the leak -
I found the leak, it appears a wild marten has been taking refuge in my engine bay. They love rubber to include coolant hoses and wiring. In my case coolant hose, it ate pieces of it and put a hole in the line.... Thankfully I did a deep look after watching that highlander mechanic video. I will have to replace that hose, but I'm still unsure of the engine noise..