High pitch noise with windows down

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by ETP, Oct 6, 2011.

  1. ETP

    ETP 2026/2021 Prime/24 Venza Limit/B52-D,G,F,H

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    It was a very nice week and rolled my windows down at Disney resorts. I noticed a very high pitch noise that the brakes did not seem to impact. Anyone else notice this?
     
  2. cyclopathic

    cyclopathic Senior Member

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  3. Jon Hagen

    Jon Hagen Active Member

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    Not sure if it is the same problem you have, but my 2010 with all windows down at a speed of 50+ has a high pitched harmonic wind noise. Roll up the rear windows and it's gone

    I suspect it has to due with the air flowing through the car with the windows open.
     
  4. Gary Otto

    Gary Otto Member

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    I just get a buffeting effect at 50+. Nice weather to ride with the windows down and let the AC rest. I just installed some wind deflectors on all four which I ordered from HIC. It was about $45 for the set with fast, free shipping. I haven't tried a drive with the windows down yet....rainy weather and my wife drives it 90% of the time.
     
  5. RRxing

    RRxing Senior Member

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    Probably the inverter. Not an issue.
     
  6. ETP

    ETP 2026/2021 Prime/24 Venza Limit/B52-D,G,F,H

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    I can only hear it at very slow speeds between two concrete buildings.

    Inverter sounds right to me!:D:D:D
     
  7. car compulsive

    car compulsive Active Member

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    They say that you lose the ability to hear those types of high-pitched noises as you age. I'm in my mid-50s and other parts of my body are falling apart, but I can hear that darn whine as plain as day.
     
  8. Teakwood

    Teakwood Member

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    Do you think it just might be the electric motor?
    Just might be.
     
  9. Delux

    Delux Junior Member

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    Ive only had my 2012 for about 3 weeks (1300 miles) and today was really the first time I have rolled down the windows, heard the exact same thing so im glad to see im not alone and that its most likely normal
     
  10. ETP

    ETP 2026/2021 Prime/24 Venza Limit/B52-D,G,F,H

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    All 3 do it! All is well in Prius land!
     
  11. LulzChicken

    LulzChicken Prius Enthusiast

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    It's the car doing what it's supposed to.
     
  12. Delux

    Delux Junior Member

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    Good to know, thanks