[rleescott]

For those who read only gen specific posts, I am copying this from my post in the general camry forum with some extra info. 2004 camry xle 4 cyl has a tapping noise from the front of the center console. Worse when cold, hear it at startup for a couple of seconds, then intermittent for a minute or so, then gone. At first, I question engine ping, but it doesn't really sound like marbles in a can, more like rocks in a box. It is not increased when engine is under load. The coolant level is ok, but the noise is close to where the heater hoses pass thru the firewall to the heater core. If I turn the ignition on to activate the vent fan w/o starting the engine, there is no noise. I have consider thre noise could be from the steering rack or back of firewall. The power steering fluid is stable, but I do have a steering wheel click that has been diagnosed as steering shaft related. Any help?

 

[toyomoho]

The steering column U-joint on some cars has been found to be defective. It makes a clicking noise when turning the wheel. Might be air in the heater system coolant.

 

[rleescott]

thanks. the coolant reservoir has never been below min level for the 2 + years of ownership, and the cooling system has never been serviced or violated. Yes, the reservoir level is lower than when it was delivered, but it always slowly goes down over time due to temp change, evaporation, etc. How would air get into the system? Anyone else have this problem?