Just got my 2013 GS 350 F AWD last week. So far, I love it, but only have about 130 miles so far.
I noticed that there is a significant 'ticking' noise from the engine compartment that is quite audible at idle, and low and medium speeds. Almost sounds like a diesel engine under some conditions. Anyone else have that? I've had several different Lexus models previously and this one is the only one that I could hear anything from the engine compartment.
I took it back to the dealer and after inspection, they said the noise was likely from the fuel injectors(?). Apparently the GS350 has 'direct' fuel injectors which are noiser than 'standard' injectors. I asked if there was any remedy and he said none are available. After some proding, he said that earlier GS models had two side panels in the engine compartment designed for acoustic dampening, but the 2013 model does not. He wasn't sure why the change, but he mentioned that with a significant re-design, they may have determined that they were unnecessary. I fired off a letter to Lexus to see what they have to say about it.
