Hi,
Recently I noticed that when the ICE is running or when I accelerate, it is extremely loud. It almost sounds like there is no muffler or my car is one of those "riced" out vehicles that is extremely loud.

I have attached 2 audio files of how it sounds (see below)....does it sound abnormal?

Both audio files (taken on the same trip): Vehicle is already "warm" and past all the "warmup" stages. Outside temperature is 73 to 74 degrees F, 11:30pm at night. Air condition and HVAC system all off.

Audio 1 file:
1) At a stop light -> Accelerate (not full acceleration, pedal is at a moderate to "light" level) and then stop.

Audio 2 file:
Self explanatory with my friend saying what is going on....


***Somehow I cannot get the audio to upload here on the forum, so I uploaded to my MobileMe file server. Please download from there.
Here is the link:
Audio File #1

Audio File #2

Any opinions?

 

...and what did the dealer or your local mechanic say is the cause?

 

Unfortunately, I am unable to bring it to the dealer right now because I am way too busy with my summer courses.
I just want to see if you all could tell by those audio files whether something sounds "wrong"

 

Well, I'm no mechanic, but just by way of reference: my 2007 TCH has almost 50K miles on it, and no matter what the time of day, temperature, etc., I have trouble hearing the ICE when it comes on. In fact, the only way I really know it has "engaged" is a slight "push" feel through the chassis, a very slight increase in vibration and a change in state on the display. I would say any noise that is noticeable should be referred to a qualified mechanic for troubleshooting.

 

It's a little premature for an '07's muffler to be failing, but if it's getting loud that's very likely the case. It could be the muffler, or something else downstream: a lot of cars have a secondary "can", about midway between the catalytic converter and the muffler.

Considering it's fairly new, maybe you even drove over something?


Have you had a look for yourself, ie: got down and looked for obvious rust perforation, general state of the muffler? I would do that and get it checked out: get a pro to look at it thoroughly, on a hoist.

 

Thanks, I am going to take a look at it myself today and take it to the dealership. I'll keep you all posted....

 

If memory serves, I think I remember reading that the muffler or some part of the exhaust has a special bypass that opens up under full power to let the system breath easier for max power. If its stuck open, maybe will result in louder than normal sound under regular operating conditions.

It's discussed here:

https://www.greenhybrid.com/discuss/...ng-sound-17393

 

I had a weld crack on one of the pipe joints at 18,000 or so miles.
Sounded very loud during any acceleration.
Toyota replaced the entire section under warranty.

 

Seems like the bypass valve in the muffler is stuck in the open position.
Take it to the deaaler and have them check it out.