Whine noise while reversing

[CPtnBBag]

Bought a new ES300h about a month ago and have just noticed a whining noise when reversing.
Its just noticeable with the windows closed, but with windows open its loud - sounds like a grinding gear / wheel bearing.

It doesn't happen when reverse is selected - only when moving backwards.

Is this happening to other ES300h owners?
 

[NemesisUK]

Is the ES similar to other Lexus hybrids, in that, reverse is always under electric power and what you hear is the EV motor whirring?

[royoftherovers]

Welcome Sandy.

Some Members might say Yes and some might say no.

I advise you to discuss it with your local Dealer straight away.

[ColinBarber]

It is probably the pedestrian warning system.

[ColinBarber]

If it sounds like the attached then it is the pws.

pws.mp3

[NemesisUK]

The acoustic vehicle alerting system is mounted in the front of the vehicle and is operated when the petrol engine stops and the vehicle is moving at speeds below 15mph

So, do you hear the noise when going forward, or only in reverse?

https://d24bc9lyrt5en5.cloudfront.net/Customer-Portal-Admin/emanuals/LEXUS/OM33F93E.pdf

[YN57OCK]

Oddly, the whining noise only happens on rapid acceleration - when the wife is in the passenger or rear seats of the car.😋

It's certainly worth checking with the dealer as mentioned earlier. Good luck and let us know what it was.

[peniole]

It's the pedestrian warning system. Only works when you are moving in reverse, stops when you stop even when in gear. Same sound is made in drive but much lower volume that you might even miss it. Speaker is fitted in front so they cranked up the volume for the reverse direction. Scared my better half the first time she heard it, she made a video and played it back for me, scares the neighbours too 😄