Low Whirring sound when engine is idling?

2011 SCION TC
209,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
Avatar
FLINTEVAN25
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
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.
Jan 24, 2023 at 10:33 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
FLINTEVAN25
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
the noise also seems to get quieter when the engine warms up.
Jan 24, 2023 at 10:39 AM
Avatar
FLINTEVAN25
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
i have also noticed a light tapping sound, as if something is spinning weird. maybe a belt or fan?
Jan 24, 2023 at 1:10 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 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
Jan 24, 2023 at 2:55 PM