Hey guys,

I have been having this problem for several months. I searched this entire forum (all generations) and many other internet car forums but I can't seem to locate the source of the problems. many different people listed many different possibilities; exhaust heat shield, chain tensioner, oil pump, engine pinging, etc.

The problem:

The rattlesnake sound comes from the engine bay and it comes on under these conditions:
1) when the rpm reaches a certain speed and I maintain that engine speed (2k -3k);
2) between shifts(when the rpm drops from 2.5k to 2k);
3) after I take my foot off the accelerator and let the rpm drop (from 2.5k to idle speed)

My fixes:

I understand that our 5.5 gen 3.5 engines burn oil and for a while, I thought that was the reason because the sound would go away after I pour some motor oil in. But recently, the sound would come back on after only couple hundred miles and I don't want to drown my engine with motor oil.

My car:

I admit, I have been using 89 octane gas. And since that might be the reason so I'll fill up twice on 93 gas from now on and see if it goes away.


Has anyone else experienced or is experiencing the same problem? Any inputs would be helpful, thanks.

Jay

 

My brother had a very similar problem on his 2K GLE. I don't know if I'd describe it as a rattlesnake sound - it was similar though. Turned out to be his upper mounts. He fixed them and problem solved.

 

Does your car burn oil? It might be a tad low on oil. I had that problem in my old 5.5 its a common issue

 

http://forums.maxima.org/5th-generat...t-precats.html

there cud be a couple of possibilities rochestor found his i have the similar problem havent had the chance to replace my pulley but will be doing soon

 

I have an 02 GLE and have the same problem. For me it happens mainly when I accelerate. If I'm starting from a stopped position, about 20-25 mph it usually starts but it only lasts a few seconds here and there. Took it to a mechanic last month and they couldn't find anything wrong...