Hello everyone. I just bought a 2001 Limited and I hear this noise very similar to the antenna going up, but it's coming from the driver's side area. Any ideas what it could be? It usually happens when it has not been cranked for awhile. It's probably nothing to worry about, but I have never heard it on my 97 4Runner. BTW-the 97 is for sale if anyone is interested. White, SR5, 4WD, leather, sunroof, 265/75/16 Revos, no locker, reverse indiglos, 130500 miles. She's in near mint condition. I live in Raleigh, NC

 

it could be the fuel pump building up pressure. Not really familiar with the newer runners. Welcome to YT!
Post up youure 97 in the classifieds with some pics and a price. I may even be interested since I live so close!

 

dgfaircloth-
Is the noise a short whirring sound that lasts for about 2-3 seconds or a light popping/tap sound that's usually present in cold weather or when the engine is cold? Usually in the front left, near the firewall. If it's the whirring sound it's the ABS system energizing. If it's the popping sound it's probably the EGR cycling. As seaflea said it could also be the fuel pump.

 

did you ever figure out what that sound was? My 2001 4Runner is just starting to do it and it annoys the crap out of me. does anybody know what it could be for sure?