[BILL JOHNSON]

I have a 2008 Sienna XLE, 3.5 L. engine, 250k miles. Several months ago it started rattling occasionally on startup, regardless if cold or warm. My mechanic said it was the timing chain. I have since replaced the complete chain assembly twice(chain, tensioner, etc). It still does it, about once every 5-6 starts. It is inconsistent regardless of weather, driving, etc. Any suggestions appreciated.

 

[paul r]

You may want to fast forward to 6:00 in the video

 

[paul r]

This may help you understand whats going on.

 

[BILL JOHNSON]

Thanks. This sounds like the problem. Any idea on what replacement costs might be?

 

[paul r]

I really don't know ...sorry

 

[sixto]

If it’s simple like this -

- then not too bad. If that doesn’t do it then it’s major surgery, probably $2-4000, with a list of while you’re in there’s.

Sixto
‘04 LE FWD 206K miles

 

[BILL JOHNSON]

No Problem. I'm pretty sure that's the problem. Thanks and Happy New Year!

 

[Ronji]

My rattle turned out to be the exhaust heat shield on the front of the engine. Bottom part had broken at the screw holding it, so only top screw held it in place.

 

[bencahill]

Another video to take a look at:

I also had a 1-second rattle on cold start when I purchased my 09 LE in 2020. It became less and less frequent over time as I did oil changes every 5,000 miles with high mileage full synthetic 5W-30. I would say at the worst it was happening on 20% of starts, and now it is well under 1% of starts.