Checks, in order
- Sway bar links and bushingsGrab the links and push or pull by hand, and look for cracked bushings or a gap around the bar. Loose links clunk at low speed over small bumps.easy $ · under about $50
- Wheels and lug nutsCheck lug nut torque and look at the wheels for cracked or elongated bolt holes. A loose wheel clunks and can be dangerous.easy $ · under about $50
- Shocks, mounts and bump stopsLook for oil on the shock bodies and check upper and lower mounts for movement. Torn or missing bump stops let the suspension bottom out with a bang.easy $ · under about $50
- Ball joints and control arm bushingsJack the front, rock each wheel at 12 and 6 o'clock, and use a pry bar under the tire to see vertical movement. Compare left and right and look for torn boots.medium $$ · about $50 to $500
- Rear leaf spring hardwareInspect the shackles, U-bolts and spring eye bushings for movement or cracks. Loose U-bolts or a cracked leaf knock over bumps.medium $$ · about $50 to $500
Applies to: 2005 to 2015 Tacoma with the 2TR-FE 2.7L four-cylinder and 1GR-FE 4.0L V6, 2WD, PreRunner and 4WD. Both engines use timing chains and a serpentine-belt-driven water pump.
Tools and parts for these checks
Links below are Amazon affiliate links: as an Amazon Associate, toyotadata earns from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Confirm fitment for your exact truck before you order.
| ITEM | USED FOR | BUY |
|---|---|---|
| Pry bar set | Checking ball joints, bushings and tie rod ends for play | Shop on Amazon |
| Sway bar end links | A common clunk source and a cheap fix | Shop on Amazon |
| Outer tie rod ends | Replacing worn tie rod ends | Shop on Amazon |
| 1/2" drive click torque wrench | Tightening suspension and driveline bolts to spec | Shop on Amazon |
The same problem on other Toyotas
Other steering & suspension problems on the 2nd Gen Tacoma
- Rear sag, squeaks or a cracked rear leaf spring
- Steering feels stiff, rattles or wanders
- Shaking, shimmy or violent wobble at highway speed
More 2nd Gen Tacoma problems
- Frame rust: flaking, holes or a soft frame (Frame & Body)
- Humming or rumbling from the front that changes with speed (Front Axle)
- 4WD won't engage, 4WD light flashing, or grinding in four-wheel drive (Front Axle)
- Vibration or jolt from the driveline under acceleration or when stopping (Drivetrain)
- Whine, howl or leak from the rear or front differential (Drivetrain)
- Engine overheating or temperature gauge climbing (Cooling)
All 16 2nd Gen Tacoma symptoms in the interactive troubleshooter →
General guidance from owner experience. Confirm torque specs, fluid capacities and procedures in the factory service manual. Brakes, steering and anything structural: if in doubt, have a qualified shop inspect it before driving.