Low Whirring sound when engine is idling?

FLINTEVAN25

MEMBER
2011 SCION TC
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
209,000 MILES

When the car is turned on and idling, there is a low whirring sound that is coming from under the hood. It appears to be something in the middle area near the actual engine.

Tuesday, January 24th, 2023 AT 10:33 AM

3 Replies

FLINTEVAN25

MEMBER
3 POSTS

The noise also seems to get quieter when the engine warms up.

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Tuesday, January 24th, 2023 AT 10:39 AM

FLINTEVAN25

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I have also noticed a light tapping sound, as if something is spinning weird. Maybe a belt or fan?

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Tuesday, January 24th, 2023 AT 1:10 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

The idea that it is coming from approximately the center of the engine compartment and gets quieter when the engine is warm sounds like it could be related to an engine vacuum leak.

Do me a favor. Do a quick inspection of the engine vacuum hoses along with the air intake tube, and intake manifold. Make sure nothing is disconnected, damaged, or dry-rotted.

Also, if it is possible for you to record it and upload it for me to hear, it will be helpful. In addition, here is a link that explains how to locate and repair an engine vacuum leak:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

Let me know.

Joe

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Tuesday, January 24th, 2023 AT 2:55 PM