Handling Issues - Bump Steer + Driving in Wind

Greetings,

I was wondering if anyone here may be having or have had the same handling issues I've had... The most noticeable thing is the amount of bump steer I feel on the steering wheel. Even at low speeds, uneven surfaces can cause the steering wheel to jerk all over the place. On the freeway, driving on rough roads can make driving a bit unnerving. On top of all that, the car seems to veer slightly to the right, even after alignments.

Ever driven the Taco on a windy day? Whew, almost as bad as being on a roller coaster!

When there are no bumps or strong winds, the truck drives like a champ...

I've done a search and mostly found most handling issues were related to vibrations at high speeds which are usually fixed with a road force balance or alignment. Other handling issues were due to a raised vehicle. I have a stock 2006 Double Cab Off Road w/ BF Goodrich A/Ts.

Replace Bushings? Get a RF balance? Have CalTrans fix the roads?!

 

Hi-

Yes, I have noticed the same thing. I have a new 09 DC Sport. I have never driven a vehicle that is so unstable feeling on the freeway. (I have had a Pilot, Highlander and Nissan Truck) I love everything about this truck except for the way it handles on the slightest of bumps in the road.

I wonder if it has anything to do with the 3 spring vs. 4 spring TSB issue - or maybe it is just something I will need time to get used to?

The wind on the other hand hasn't been a problem. I was on the freeway for about 120 miles Saturday in somewhat gusty winds and it really wasn't a problem.

On smooth freeway roads - it handles like a dream and is so quiet.

 

yeah these truck are a bit squirrely. My truck before this was a F150 and it was a tank on the road compared to this. You get used to it. I ended up getting Icon front coilovers and TC UCA's and the handling is 1000 times better, I should also be replacing the rear leafs any day now. My truck is well out of warranty so I'm not eligable for the suspension TSB. If you can, get the TSB done and then see how it drives. good luck

 

Have you alignment tech put as much caster as possible into your alignment. If you still cant get the desired feel there is always the option of replacement upper control arms that will add even more caster.

As you increase caster, you will notice a gain in directional stability, "self-center" and improved tire contact while turning/braking.

You cant add too much caster in the Tacoma's case, just be sure to keep the toe and camber within factory specs.

EDIT: Just for clarification, we're talking about positive caster here.

 

I've noticed the same thing, and the wind does toss it around a bit to me....still love it though

 

Just curious...

What types of vehicles did you guys drive before owning a tacoma?

It's a truck.... these trucks are a bit lighter for their overall size compared to the previous tacomas. That alone can make it feel 'unstable'. For as light as it feels, it should be lower to the ground like a sports car - but they aren't.

I haven't noticed any problems....but then again, I'm used to driving trucks.

 

i have a 2009 with 3" spacers light racing uca's and still is real bad i cant stand to drive it good thing it is my wifes i have a 2005 jacked chevy duramax and it drives way way way way better dont know but i think when she gets home im going to try and give it moore caster on the controle arms and see if that helps

 

I have been driving a truck since 1976. Big ones, little ones, work and play, Merkin and Jap. Never felt one bump steer or tramline anything like the taco does.

 

Mine seems to be a little better since I had my cap put on the bed.

 

I kind of agree. I have to drive very conservatively on bumpy roads, or the Tacoma gives a pretty wild ride. I hit a washboard type section of pavement the other day on a turn and it felt like the truck was going to bounce off the road. As much as I criticize my parents' F-150, it does seem to handle the bumps and holes a whole lot better.

I don't have a terribly big issue with the wind though.

 

Also the wash behind a big truck will cause buffeting and this is several truck lengths behind one also. I fully understand the wind thing....you should drive a Jeep wrangler on a windy day, the Taco is way better.

 

I have a 2011 double cab (sport) Tacoma with a canopy. The thing that impressed me immediately about this truck, was the sure handling. I find that the vehicle maintains its direction in a straight line and gives the driver a feeling of control on fast turns. The solid feel of the truck is also pleasing. I compared the drive to a Frontier at the time of purchase and the Tacoma won easily. I found the Frontier drive busy while the Tacoma gave the feeling of sure, easy control. I like the legs forward sitting position and the seat works well on long trips (four 2000 mile trips so far). I drive mainly on smooth surfaces and think that this truck is the best driving truck that I have ever experienced.

 

Do you think alignment while help because I have a 2010 tacoma with 35's and I 6" lift and it wonders and swervy, and I have some bump steer like you guys are saying or is there anything to fix this?

 

I put bigger tires(Michelin), Bilstein shocks, and rear sway bar and it now handles very nice of the highway.