popping noise - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

mervm · 09-18-2010, 06:52 PM

when i push the start button i get a popping noise kinduf like an electrical arch any one else having this problem thanks for any info

i did an update at the end of this post

***TrailDust*** · 09-19-2010, 02:24 PM

Push button start? Which trim line of Highlander do you own?

mervm · 09-19-2010, 05:31 PM

limited made in japan

***summerwind*** · 09-20-2010, 05:59 AM

My 2008 Limited with SmartKey does not make that sound

areamike · 09-20-2010, 07:08 AM

Mine has the push button start too and I have never heard the sound you are describing. You might want to call your dealer.

mervm · 09-20-2010, 07:11 AM

It doesn't seem to do it as much after it's warm but first thing in the morning it almost allways happens had it to toyota but it wouldn't do it because it was warm. It only happens when i push the start button so i am assuming it is a starter relay/ amplifier/it happens weather the radio is on or off so probably not the amp. but it does sound like it's coming from the speakers

areamike · 09-20-2010, 07:39 AM

Interesting, that makes it sounds like it is arching. Maybe the starter wires a little too close tot he speaker wires?

deadrx7conv · 09-20-2010, 10:56 AM

The start button doesn't actively engage the starter. It just sends the signal to start the process. Its passive guys. You don't control the starter. The ECU does. The button doesn't have enough juice going through it to cause any pops.
You probably have a slow relay thats kicking in loudly when cold.

You need to localize where the sound is coming from. Meaning, try different things during your cold start. Start it with the windows open. Start with a door open. Make sure its not the stereo or steering lock.

And, best way to show dealer is to leave it there before they close, and bring the tech and service writer to the car for the 1st cold morning start so that they can witness what you're hearing.

If it sounds like its coming from the speakers, than the head unit or amp is toast. Could simply be feedback from when the radio turns on, then the radio turns off(blinks) as the starter engages, and then the radio turns back on. If you have an amp, its cycling on/off/on also as the starter engages. Cold electronics a little slow!

mervm · 09-20-2010, 02:00 PM

Thanks for the thinking, i will try to localize where the sound is coming from

mervm · 02-21-2011, 10:46 AM

an update to my problem if i push the start button without touching the brake peddle first, then step on the brake and start it up no popping!!!