Starting Question

[mike p.]

I have just recently bought an 08 Avalon.
So far I find it a very nice car, but have a question on starting.
When I hit the button to make the starter engage I hear a noise like a relay or someting activating before the started engages.
I only hear the noise for a second or so and it does not interfer with the starting of the car.
Any comments or answers as to why this is happening?
thanks, Mike P.

[grandpapa]

NORMAL
that's how the system work. In terms of what it does? I don't know, I guess it engage something before you can "START" the engine. I was worry about the push start feature myself at 1st but after talking to a few Lexus/toyota tech and service managers, they seems to be very confidence about that system and I just have to trust their words on it

[boosted-fc3s]

If you have a mechanical noise, thats the steering lock disengaging. You should hear a similar noise after you shut off the car and open a door. At least if I'm thinking about the same noise as you are.

[mike p.]

Thanks for both answers. Yes, it is a mechanical noise.
I'll quit worrying about it now.

[Seneca]

I bought an 05 Avalon three days ago, and I was trying to figure out what I was doing wrong to make that noise at start-up. The description of the steering lock disengaging exactly describes my experience.

I've been on this forum for half an hour, and you've already set my mind at rest. Thank you.