New Member 2007 4Runner Limited

[newbie_molly]

Hello,

I am a two-time 4Runner owner. I recently traded my 1997 4Runner in for a new 2007 model.

I have had two experiences with the new 4Runner where I had a loud clunking noise in the transmission when I was on a slight incline going up my driveway. It happened when I was nearly at a standstill, but had my foot on the gas pedal.

I went to the dealer where I purchased the vehicle. They told me it's a known issue, that it isn't really a problem, but that Toyota is aware of it. They offered to 'grease' or 'lube' something and said it would help for about a week, but that didn't sound like a fix to me.

Has anyone heard of this problem or had the 'clunk' noise happen with a newer model 4Runner?

Thanks very much!

[Derek_SportRunr]

I have a 07 V8 Sport 4wd and it does the same thing. I have researched it quite a bit and have found that the factory is fully aware of the problem. See I work for Lexus and the
Gx470 which is basically the same drive system as the 4runner had the same problem in 2004/2005. In which Lexus put out a sevice bulliten and then recalled the vehicles for a drive shaft replacement thus fixing the problem. I have gone back and forth with my dealer who i am affiliated with and have gotten multiple answers for the reasoning behind not fixing the problem. The regional service mgr told me that Toyota uses a heavier type of metal in there transmission so they will last longer but this is a side effect. It all ended up to be BS. Thats when I did some research on the GX. As far as the factory is concerned this is the way the vehicle is suppose to operate. The factory has no Bullitens about this problem but there seem to be plenty of people talking about it.

So, I bet it happens when you are approaching a stop or right after you stop, wait a few seconds and the whole vehicle moves just a hair and goes clunk and you can feel it all through the truck. It almost feels like its coming from the transmission or right under the center console. EXACTLY !!! well try this, when coming to a stop don't abruptly stop, time it and slowly creap up top the stop let the truck shift to first gear before stopping completely.
I know its not the fix you wanted but for now it helps. Let me finish by saying I absolutly love my truck, everything about it i love and if this is the only problem I can live with it using my stop technique

Derek