2010 Camry Hybrid, 316,000 miles
https://youtube.com/shorts/7wILybfFrR4?si=bvaT1DbF2T76MSHp •
The Noise: High-pitched "teeth chatter" at idle. If I drive it hard, the noise vanishes completely. VVT actuator or timing chain slap?
• The FOD: Found a curved metal sliver in the oil pickup screen.
• Head Gasket: Hit 3/4 on the temp gauge once. Now the radiator hoses are rock-hard on cold starts and it’s "drinking" coolant.
I already hired out a new radiator, cats, and a full front suspension overhaul. My parents think I’m throwing money away and I can't do an engine swap myself in the driveway.
Is it time for the crusher, or do I keep "sending it" until a rod exits the chat?
It's 16 years old, very high mileage, hybrid battery likely to fail soon at that age, metal shards in the oil, running hot with a probable leaking head gasket, and an engine noise of currently unknown origin. Your parents are right, sounds like it's time for a trip to the junkyard.
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No mechanic can figure it out. I’ve spent thousands trying to renew my baby to factory spec.
- It’s been in the family since new. It’s my first/second car.
- I cannot find any other videos with my noise! And it only happens after about 100 miles of driving in a day.
- Many thanks to anyone who can help me! Hopefully Scotty sees this though! Thanks.