[clkcrawford]

I've been using the 4runner forums forever. Had a 3rd Gen. Then a 4th gen. And now a 5th gen. Because of all the resources on here I've never had to post and ask questions, which I imagine is nice since no one likes duplicate questions where experienced users come in and say "check this thread" and then post a link. I've made major repairs, upgraded suspension wheels tires, custom paint, dash and electrical stereo systems floor mats everything in between and all from just reading others experiences and advice here on this forum. Great forum. But I am at the point now where I cant find anyone else with this problem. SOOO to get some pro thoughts on the issue and also help other future owners that might have happen, heres whats going on.

Was driving home with 85k on my 2012 4runner and all of a sudden it started making this noise. Does it regardless of heating and cooling is on/off, or regardless of stereo being off or on. I dont think it is the cd player motor because I press the load button and it makes a different sound and still functions. So I think its something else. Only stops making noise when car is all way off key out of ignition. Still makes noise even after sitting for a bit. Its so annoying. Here it is :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6lEEhrbuis

Any ideas are helpful. I really dont feel like tearing apart the dash on my new (to me) car and looking for noises. But if knew what was looking for or to replace I think would be something I'd be comfortable doing. Thanks guys.

[5280 TRail-Runner]

Not sure what that would be but it sounds like a motor of some sort. As for pulling your dash apart, you can take the head unit/hvac out in minutes with just your hand a 10mm socket/wrench. May be worth it to chase down the noise.

[83Mule]

Sounds like the CD loading motor binding up.....my PS4 made this sound when the blu-ray died. It kept attempting to ''load'' the cd even when none were in.

[TVille]

Pull fuses until the noise stops. Then you will at least know which system it is in.

[rigtec]

Originally Posted by clkcrawford

Was driving home with 85k on my 2012 4runner and all of a sudden it started making this noise. Does it regardless of heating and cooling is on/off, or regardless of stereo being off or on. I dont think it is the cd player motor because I press the load button and it makes a different sound and still functions. So I think its something else. Only stops making noise when car is all way off key out of ignition. Still makes noise even after sitting for a bit. Its so annoying. Here it is :

Any ideas are helpful. I really dont feel like tearing apart the dash on my new (to me) car and looking for noises. But if knew what was looking for or to replace I think would be something I'd be comfortable doing. Thanks guys.

Hi clkcrawford,

This is just a wild guess, but it sounds like the HVAC blower motor with seizing bearings. The motor tries to start but over heats and quits in short order. Then it cools just enough to try again... try this: pull the fuse or just disable it to isolate it. If the sound goes away, then you've got it. Also, test the heater motor on all speeds to see if any change takes place; but even though I can't isolate it from the film you posted, that's where I'd start! Be sure to let us know... 'Best to you',

rig

[Boyds4Runner]

Just a guess here but I'm thinking the motor to switch the flap from recirculated air to outside air might be struggling or the flap has something jamming it from moving.

Good luck finding the cause.

[clkcrawford]

Thanks for the ideas guys. I thought for sure it wouldnt be cd player since that works and I can put my ear up to it and hear the motor working normally and independently of the other noise. Ruled out the hvac system too because of the sound still happens even when all systems are turned off and car not running. But might have to revisit both systems and as recommended start pulling some fuses I guess. I'll post if I get solution and hopefully thats sooner than later cause the sound is driving me crazy