I've been reading these forums for quite a while now but never joined. Most of the things I had questions about were already answered so I just searched and used the information I found. However, I was met with a unique situation today while driving in a heavy cross-wind. The link to the video is kind of long, and I apologize for that, but it was hard to time correctly and I don't know how to edit video. My vehicle is a '98 4Runner 4wd, 3.4, Auto.
In the video, there are two occasions where there is a very strange, almost metallic sounding, noise that appears to be originating from the area directly in front of me, perhaps from the steering wheel area? There is no difference in the way the car feels when this noise happens. I noticed it happens when the cross-wind blows the vehicle to the left and I have to hold the wheel to the right in an effort to stay in my lane.
Thanks in advance for any help! -Joel

 

I was really hoping someone may have an idea of what this noise was. At least then, I would know if I should be worried :/

 

I watched the video and have no idea what that screeching/whistling sound could be. Other than a very strong crosswind making your wipers vibrate, or causing a window seal to lift.



Andreas

 

Was your windshield replaced recently?
I had the same noise after a windshield replacement, I fixed it by sealing up the molding that goes over the windshield.

 

I have only had this 4Runner for a month, so I'm not sure if it's been replaced recently. It is hard to tell in the video, but it was really loud, and it almost sounded like it was metal-on-metal. It was the strangest noise so it's hard to describe.

 

I would agree, it sounds like either a loose window seal that is letting air in, or the windshield needs to be sealed better.. Whoever you bought it from, if private party, maybe ask them if they had same noise.

 

It doesn't sound like metal-to-metal to me. More of a high-pitched 'whistle' .
Might be something vibrating at a high rate when fast-moving air passes over at just the right angle. You were going around 75mph.

 

I thought it was something like that initially. After it did it several times though, I wasn't so sure. Glad to get opinions on it because I'd rather be safe than sorry!

 

Does it make the sound if the driver side window is opened a tiny bit? It sounds like air being forced through someplace. Is the ventilation set on recirc or fresh air?

 

i listened to the vid a couple times.
like all the other guys have said, its more then likely the windshield seal,

 

The windows were all up. The air is always set to recirculate. I'll take a look at the windshield seal and see if I notice anything. Since the day I recorded that I haven't heard it again. Definitely had something to do with the heavy winds.