Hi all. I am new to this forum. but I feel that the knowledge that this forum offers from its members is admirable..

Here is my dilemma: I have a 2017 Tacoma trd off road 4x4. After I start the vehicle in the AM and then start to drive, when I come to a stop sign and start to slow down to stop, right before I stop and have the brakes applied, I hear a knock or thump coming from the rear of my Tacoma. It seems to happen as if the transmission is downshifting. I have been doing a little research on this and have been given suggestions that the slip yoke may need to be greased. But as you all know, my 2017 does not have a grease zerk to grease the slip yoke. Also, is the slip yoke located on the rear drive shaft coming from the rear differential?

I kinda know that the transmission on the 3rd generations have their issues. But I am asking for your thoughts on this matter and if you think I have a slip yoke or transmission problem or other type problem.

Anyway, I took the truck to the dealer and they said they would have to diagnose the issue and that it could possibly cost me $120.00 plus the parts to fix if necessary. Greasing the slip yoke is a maintenance issue to the dealer and would have to be paid out of pocket.

So kind ladies and gentlemen, do I have a problem and if so your thoughts on the matter, should I take my Tacoma to the dealer, or can I do this, grease the slip yoke, on my own.

Thanks for your feedback in advance.

 

If you're out of warranty I would stay as far away from the dealer as possible. And I mean this for every manufacturer!
Ask around your group of friends and relatives if they have any trusted mechanics. An honest mechanic won't charge you for a diagnosis.
The slip yolk sounds like a far fetched idea to me... even a dry one wouldn't really give you input up in cab.
From your description it sounds like you are actually experiencing a downshift during deceleration. Auto trans usually do that seamlessly, but there may be something out of adjustment causing a harsh downshift.
I can only speak generally, perhaps someone with direct experience with your particular vehicle will weigh in.

 

Thanks moto809 for you thoughts. Just a few more things I have noticed.
1. When in "D" and I pull up to a stop sign in a rather going fast manner and begin to apply the brakes to stop, I usually hear that thump/clunk. But if I pull up to a stop sign and apply the brakes slowly and slowly come to a stop...I do not usually hear that thump/clunk..
2. .Also, if I drive in "S 6" mode, and no matter how I pull up to a stop sign be it fast or slow, I do not hear the thump/clunk in that high gear......STRANGE.

Your thoughts moving forward are appreciated...thank you