Car Info: 2003 Toyota Camry 2.4L 4 cyl, 170k mi, had been sitting for about 3 years but was run sporadically to charge the battery and keep engine conditioned.

Situation: Recently started driving it regularly. Changed the oil this weekend and put in 5 qts synthetic 5w-30. It began making noise the next day (no immediate noise after the oil change). I realized the oil was overfilled so I drained it and refilled to the correct level. Took out about a quart. It is still making the noise in the video but has been slightly less audible at times.

Could the new oil or overfill have caused this or is it just a coincidence? If so anyone know what it is?

 

Sounds like an alternator bearing to me. Get really long screwdriver and put blade on alternator case and handle end against your ear. Listen..... Move blade end to engine block and listen again. If noise is noticeably louder on alternator, you've got your problem! Screwdriver is acting as a stethoscope, and can be used to pin down many strange noises.

 

Thanks man. Definitely the alternator.

I tried to do the same thing with a vacuum hose up to my ear but wasn't sure. Screwdriver worked perfectly.