Follow-Up Trailhunter Pulse Vibration 30-40 MPH

[JeffG]

I had posted this several months ago regarding my 2024 TH pulsing/vibration at 30-40MPH.
Dealer confirmed the problem during 2 visits and I paid $75 tire balance recently with 5,000 miles (Claimed all were off >2.5 oz) still the same problem. (They refunded me $75 after yesterdays test drive)

My 3rd visit yesterday, after they had a new TH in the lot. The service manager and I confirmed the 2025 TH has the same issue.
We then drove a Tacoma TRD, SR5 Hybrid than a base 4 cylinder. ***They all did the same thing!

They are offering me a great deal on a Tundra TRD I’m considering.

I’ve seen no similar issues posted on this forum but when I did an internet search tonight I found this.
Guessing future class action lawsuit… but I don’t see anyone here with the issues or how it was resolved.

**********
A common issue reported in both the 2024 and 2025 Toyota Tacoma is a vibration or shudder felt at speeds between 30-40 mph. This issue can be quite noticeable at a constant speed in that range and may be accompanied by a hesitation during acceleration or rough gear changes. Some owners have described it as a feeling like the engine is misfiring or dropping a cylinder.

Here's a breakdown of potential causes and solutions:

Possible Causes:

• Tires/Wheels:
  Out-of-balance tires, cupping, or even mud buildup on the wheels can cause vibrations.
• Driveshaft:
  A bent driveshaft or worn U-joint can also be a culprit.
• Engine:
  While less common, a slight engine misfire or issues with the engine's low-end torque can contribute.
• Suspension:
  Issues with suspension components, like control arms or ball joints, can also cause vibrations.
• Needle Bearing:
  Some owners have reported issues with the needle bearing in the front differential, especially after lifts.
• Transmission:
  While less likely, some owners have reported transmission issues, including rough shifts and hesitation.

Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Tire/Wheel Inspection: Check for cupping, balance, and ensure there's no mud or debris causing imbalance.
2. Driveshaft Inspection: Inspect the driveshaft for damage and check the U-joints for play.
3. Engine Check: Consider having a mechanic check for misfires or other engine issues.
4. Suspension Check: Inspect suspension components for wear or damage.
5. Dealer Diagnosis: If the issue persists, take the truck to a dealership for diagnosis. They may need to contact Toyota corporate for further assistance.
6. Consider a Third-Party Shop:If you're not satisfied with the dealership's diagnosis, consider taking it to a reputable tire and wheel shop for a thorough inspection.

Important Notes:

• Some owners have reported the vibration being described as "normal" by dealerships, but this is not always accurate.
• Some issues, like the needle bearing problem, can be addressed with aftermarket parts like the ECGS bushing kit.
• If the vibration is felt in the seat, the issue is more likely in the rear, and if felt in the steering wheel, it's more likely in the the front end

Sponsored

 

[Baltimore]

I have similar on my LTD HV.
Dealership claiming something is normal just because other vehicles also do it is the most absurd excuse I've now encountered. If the vehicles are so missing a lug nut, does that make it normal? In my case they even refused to do a road force balance test or alignment without me paying for it directly. They even had the guts to claim you can't do an alignment check without doing an alignment. (End pissed off rant)

I'm in the midst of trialing whether octane makes a difference. As much as it *shouldn't* I'm out of brainstorming options on what I can try beyond an OTT tune cost. I had the wheels balanced and the alignment performed at a tire/mechanic shop that I trust over the dealership. I personally couldn't identify a difference or change to behavior based on drive mode (normal v sport v eco). I don't drive a lot so the experiment is really drawn out. But so far I *think* what I'm noticing is that on 87 octane the back of seat vibration shudder occurs pretty pronounced at low rpm between 37 and 47 mph. When fully on 93 octane I *think* the effect is both dampened and shiften to more the 29 to 34 mph range.

This is one case where I wish I drove more so it wasn't such a memory recall.

 

[Chico]

I have a 2024 Toyota Tacoma Trail Hunter with just over 5,000 and I have not noticed that issue on mine. I drive 30-40 MPH quite often, as I am retired military and drive on the military base quite often, but honestly I haven't had that issue with mine at all. I only use the recommended 87 octane Top Tier gas. I also drive mine on ECO mode all the time.

 

[TFOUTS]

I haven’t seen this on my 2024 Trailhunter but my truck is out fitted with all kinds of stuff (extra weight). I also drive an eco mode.

 

[Baltimore]

The sensation bring describe here is mild but noticable. It's not jaring or in your face. Low rpm, easy on the pedal. There is a very distinct "driving sensation" change crossing into the zone, once in it's a mild sensation on your lower back and your legs, you can see it vibrating a bottle in the cup holder, but the steering wheel is dead calm. And as you cross out of the zone it all goes away and becomes incredibly smooth again. You're almost minimally feathering the accelerator pedal. If you speed up too quickly or slow down too quickly or have it running at a higher rpm for some reason, it does not occur.

Sponsored