What is the reason for the clicking sound when the Prado is in D gear at idle?
2 Answers
Prado making a clicking sound when in D gear at idle may be an issue with the idle speed. Introduction to D gear: The D gear in a car is the drive gear, also known as the forward gear, and is the most commonly used gear. When driving normally, the gear selector is placed in the D gear position, and the automatic transmission automatically shifts between gears based on the throttle input. The D gear is located in the middle-rear position of the gear shift console, behind the N gear, and its purpose is to enable the car to automatically select the appropriate gear while moving forward. Main purpose of D gear: When the vehicle is moving forward, the D gear allows the transmission's computer and corresponding mechanical structures to work together to automatically select the appropriate gear in real-time, eliminating the need for manual shifting. This greatly reduces the workload on the driver's hands and feet, improving driving convenience, ease, and comfort.
My car has a similar issue. When it's in D gear and stationary, I hear a rattling sound, which is quite annoying. As an experienced driver who has driven several Toyota models, I suspect this might be noise caused by insufficient transmission fluid. In an automatic transmission, hydraulic pressure builds up in D gear, and low or dirty fluid can make the torque converter operate unsteadily, creating noise. First, check the fluid level by opening the hood and locating the transmission dipstick to ensure the fluid is at the proper level and has a bright color. If that's fine, it could be due to loose engine mounts or vibrations from chassis components amplifying the sound. I recommend stopping and restarting the car to see if the noise changes, but don't push it—get a full inspection at the dealership to avoid minor issues turning into major repairs. Regular fluid changes and maintenance can prevent most problems.
