SHKID

RX in NC: Thanks for your post. I actually have Lexus dealer tightened the belt after it was replaced (belt was replaced by someone else). Or at least, they said they did. It was ok for a while, and then the squeal started again. Especially when I turn on the rear defroster. I am wondering if I need to have my 2nd serpentine belt replaced as well and why it starts to squeal when the defroster is on. I will looking into tighten the belts myself and replace the 2nd belt myself. SHKID

No one else out there has or had similar problems?

Hi, All: I have an issue with my 99' RX300. When I start my car in the morning, especially when temp is cold, I hear this high pitch noise coming from the belts. So, I thought was the serpentine belt. I have one of them (top one) replaced. It stopped for a couple of days, then it starts again. The high pitch noise comes on and off when starting the car for the first 5 minutes. There is no noise driving the car on highway or local. Recently, I noticed something strange. When I start the car and turn on the rear defroster, the noise would come on. When I turn it off, then the noise would go away. I have tried to put some lubricant on the top serpentine belt, but it didn't help. I took the car to lexus dealer for a check. Unfortunately, the noise didn't happen that time. I really like to know if any one has the similar problem or anyone knows how to fix it. I don't want to pay the dealer $135 dollars/hour labor. I am wondering if I could fix it myself. Thank you!! SHKID

Jeff: I have 235P65R16 on my 99' RX300. You would not have any problem with the rear struts. I brought GoodYear Fortera Triple Tred. It cost me around $600 back then from Discounted Tires. Now, it's around $800-900. The wider tires actually give the car a lot better traction. SHKID