QuestionI have a 2006 model year Toyota Avalon XLS (purchased in October 2005) with the 3.5 liter V6 engine. It has 36,000 miles on it, and has been serviced at the recommended intervals by the dealer.
This morning with no prior symptoms, when I started the car in my garage I heard a loud clatter coming from under the hood. Figuring this was not good, I shut down the engine within a couple of seconds and looked under the hood. All looked well, nothing obviously amiss; oil level was OK when I dipsticked it, no puddles under the vehicle, the serpentine belt on the passenger's side of the engine looks intact.
Tried starting the car again - it cranks, but won't start.
Thinking back, a couple of years ago I heard a little clatter from under the hood for a few seconds, but it stopped on its own and the engine has been running smoothly ever since. But what I heard today was a LOT louder.
Any ideas of what could be wrong, and what the best-case and worst-case scenarios are? (I'll be sure to sit down when I see your answer, since the car is out of warranty.)
AnswerThere have been some problems with these engines, I would still contact the dealer and have it towed there to check out, the powertrain warranty is good for 5yrs/60,000 miles, since you may be just out by time but relatively low mileage the dealer may assist with authorization from the regional office, especially since it was serviced regularly at the dealer.
