Unidentified noises are always fun, aren't they Unfortunately, there's no single thing that I can tell You that could be causing that high pitched noise on Your Toyota 4Runner. For example, if it's a sort of screeching sound, that's maybe going to be Your serpentine belt. If it's more like a constant whining sound, it could be what's known as "alternator whine", and usually You'll hear this as though it's coming through the radio. Something else it can be, and obviously, if You hear it in this context, is the brakes: If something is touching the rotors, even a little bit (like, not kidding, the dry stem of a leaf!) You'll hear a very shrill sound. I'd say the first thing here is to check all Your fluids, and visually inspect all Your brakes and belts for obstructions.
I have a 2006 with 175000 miles. Recently, it felt like one of the pads had worn down and it was making typical rotor grind noise. Today, a high pitched noise started and I completely lost my brakes. I turned off the radio, fan, everything electrical that I could and the noise continued until I turned off the car. Could the car have some sort of emergency warning system that kicks in? I've happily driven Toyotas for 40 years and this was the first such event.
Howard J.
April 10, 2020
A high pitch noise coming from a toyota 4runner is usually indicative of a battery or alternator issue.
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