2004 Camry with the 2.4L 2AZ-FE engine. Almost 120k miles on it with only a water pump replacement 4 years ago and regular maintenance otherwise. Car has started making a “squeaky rattle” just off idle, which is audible in the video. (Car idles smoothly - that’s just my wife lightly stabbing the throttle to generate noise.) Thought it might be an exhaust leak, but everything seems tight, and I would think the noise would continue under acceleration but it’s only when you first hit the gas. Anyone else have suggestions or history with a similar noise issue? Thanks in advance.

(attached movie with audio in third post below)

 

For unknown reasons the file is failing to download.

 

Thanks - trying to get a corrected file uploaded.

 

See if this works this time.

 

The noise is loud enough. Use a section of hose as a stethoscope to narrow down the location. Once narrowed down take a photo of that area. Make sure to check the engine air intake manifold area.

 

Finally tried the hose/stethoscope method, still couldn't quite isolate the source of the noise. Gave a closer visual inspection while running and noticed a very slight wobble in the accessory belt tensioner. Put a pry bar up against the pulley bolt and it seemed to quiet down slightly. So, I put a new belt and tensioner assembly on it - bingo! Nice and quiet again. Funny thing is, the old tensioner assembly feels pretty tight when trying to move it around by hand, but I guess with the stress of the belt on it the bearing was starting to fail.

 

Great job!