How to describe this issue to the dealer?

I need someones advice as to how to describe this problem to the dealer so that I don't come across as a dummy when it comes to a "technical description" of the problem. I know exactly what is happening, but some here have described this "issue" in various ways.

Please give me your best ideas as to get their attention in the best way. in other words so they just don't just blow me off!

My truck is fine as long as it is fully warmed up. If it has been driven for approx. 5 minutes or so (guess) all seems fine for my driving. When I leave my driveway, the truck's idle will surge up and down as much as 100-250 rpm. All vehicles I have ever owned and driven have set the idle up while warming up and then brought it (idle) back down when up to temp. Not this up and down and up and down erratic stuff. I know this does not seem serious except you have to apply varying pressure on the brake pedal to maintain full control of the truck.

THIS IS A SAFTEY ISSUE _TOYOTA!!

I see this as a possible MAJOR ISSUE on my drive when there is snow or ice present. After a little while of driving, this issue seems to go away, as I check it out when I get to my destination. I have told the dealer I want it looked into, and I only seemed to get their attention when I have informed them, if me or my wife put this truck through my garage door or loose control due to the erratic idle -- they or Toyota would be liable. We'll see what happens with this.

Some have described this behavior on their trucks as well --my question is what terms do I use to describe this behavior to the dealer -so that they respect my description of this specific issue.

Someone said it has to do with a mid-designed "port" and something about a "extra bunch of air" in the system??

 

So you leave your truck idle then jump in and start driving and the RPM's start to bounce around as you are moving? Just want to make sure I'm getting this right. If that's the case it sounds like the truck is bucking a bit. My guess would be maybe the torque converter? Just try to explain to them the best you can. Believe me lots of people have a hard time explaining there issues. They will ask you a few questions and if they are still having a hard time understanding perhaps they will want someone to ride along with you.

 

Normal.

 

Brake pressure fluctuating with inconsistent rpm at idle when cold.
Idle speed fluctuation and surging at idle when cold.
Inconsistent idle and vehicle surging with brake applied when cold.

 

Right!!??

 

Thank you for your help.

 

Normal

 

Sort of -- I start the truck --let it idle a minute or so (during the warmer months -like now) then back out of my drive -- idle will fluctuate around 100-250 rpm as shown on the tach. This up and down variance does require a different pressure on the brake as I am backing out, otherwise the truck would speed up.

 

200RPM range when the engine is cold and in gear is nothing abnormal

I wouldn't explain it to your service advisor at all. I would make an appointment, tell them you need a tech to drive it around the parking lot after it has fully cooled down.

I doubt you care enough about this issue to take it in for service again and again after they tell you it's normal the first time. They WILL NOT find anything wrong with the truck during inspection

 

Problem, is that it does not do the fluctions in the idle unless it has sat for at least 4-5 hours (or more?) after running. I will probably request leaving it at the dealer overnight and then going there the next day for a cold start drive along with someone who is at least a technician --NOT A SERVICE WRITER!

AND --excuse me --I DO "care enough"

 

I don't think you will ever do this

 

You don't know me !!

 

I'll be waiting

 

I'm mildly curious where you end up on this endeavor. However, and unfortunately, I believe this to be normal characteristics of this transmission.

 

I will try and keep people informed. Thing is -- I am retired -- have plenty of time --but now all that time is being used up on other projects -- I have had the truck since Valentines day, and have not got 3K on it. I also tend to be a patient person knowing I have plenty of warranty time left. Dealer knows about the issue and was going to speak to the Area tech about it.
Oh and BTW -- I like everything else about the truck (so far).

 

Please keep us posted!

 

Tell this poor mom it's normal.

 

This transmissions behaves like shit when it's cold. You pretty much have to keep the brake pedal smashed into the floor until it gets warm. It's not hard to believe that someone ran into something.

 

Very....

Just don't be like that woman who ran into a wall.

 

Just go test drive a few other Tacoma's on the lot when they're cold and see if the exhibit some of the same characteristics. If they don't leave your truck and replicate it , if they do , chances are it's going to be considered "normal"