kid

Just bought a 2001 Tacoma; 3.4; 4wd; TRD; auto. Seems to shift a little harder then my 2000 4runner 3.4 2wd auto. When I say shift hard, I mean that it kind of jumps into gear a little bit throughout the range, (not so smooth). Not bad enough to make you want to limp to a dealer, but just enough to notice, especially after just driving the 4runner. I spoke to someone that had a 2003 TRD Taco and he mentioned his did the same until he changed the ATF. It seemed to get better for him after that. Is it normal for a TRD Taco to shift a little rougher than a 4runner? Are the gear ratios the same for both? I plan on changing the fluid here shortly, however, I would like to know if anyone else has experienced this. If not what do you think it is? Thanks.

kid

Update -

Check engine light just came on yesterday evening and the problem has appeared to have been getting worse. Truck idles smooth but as you get moving it begins to vibrate and shift excessively. Problems with the down shift also. Taking it to the dealer tommorrow, will post a follow up on what they find. Anybody have any recommendations I should propose the dealer also replace?

~Kid

rimpainter.com

Sounds like something with the speed sensor. Anyway, you should be covered under the powertrain warranty unless you are past 60K miles. They should take care of everything. Let us know what they find.

kid

Update #2 -

OK, back from the dealer. The only ODB code that was found was a P1780 "PARK/NEUTRAL SWITCH MALFUNCTION". This just prevents you from shifting into drive, from park, without stepping on the brake first. No biggie, as I don't believe this had any relevance to the above problems that were occurring. The code was cleared. It looks like the apparent down shift thump was due to the rear drive shaft yoke needing lubrication and the rear brakes being extremely out of adjustment. Not so sure about the rear brakes being the underlying issue here , but it seems that a dry yoke is a common problem, therefore, set aside some time and lube this thing once in a while. (Toyota removed the zert in later models, so now the yoke must be removed and taken apart before it can be lubed.) Mabe we can get a tech write-up on this? All in all, it appears that my stated problem has somewhat been resolved, it still shifts a little rough but I have yet to change out the ATF. Oh yeah, and there was no charge for these fixes, which is very undealership-like.

PS - There is alot of us here that live in the "VALLEY OF THE SUNSTROKE" isnt there!

~Kid