Front Differential Bearing Failure

I've had a brand new 2009 manual transmission, 4-door, TRD Sport Toyota Tacoma for approximately 5 months now and have been hearing rattling sounds in the engine since I bought the vehicle. The sound can only only be heard when in neutral and going over large bumps in the road. I consulted this forums associated topics and from several threads I figured it was a loose steering linkage because the "rattling" was faint to the point no one else even noticed it. As I've just reached the 15,000 mile mark, I took it in to the dealership for service and stated the "rattling" concern that I had. Apparently a bearing in the front differential went bad. I just heard this news and I'm unsure whether it's a ball or sleeve bearing but I'm already quite disappointed that this has occurred in a brand new (and by the way... my dream) Tacoma truck. The dealership has stated they'll be replacing the front differential with a new one and that it is covered under warranty.

So...

1. Has anyone had the same issue?
2. Since I myself am not too savy on front suspensions, differentials, etc... what should I be concerned about and what should I be asking the dealership in order to cover my ass in later years? (i.e., one of my co-workers has stated that I should have the dealership write and sign a document stating that the differential problem was or was not related to improper front suspension alignment (???) and that any and all future complications relating to this issue and it's repair will be covered under warranty from Toyota... ???) Given that I'm unsure if it's a sleeve or ball bearing, please list your concerns for both cases...

Again, thanks for everyone's help... I hope to have this one resolved and taken care of before the end of the week!

 

have you ever, for fun or anything, engaged 4WD on dry pavement?

 

If you are having the front diff swapped out, you have nothing to worry about. FWIW the bearings in the front diff are roller bearings.

Although it is quite rare for a bearing failure, especially at such a low mileage, they do occur. I'd say the chances of you having to deal with the same problem again, are next to none.

 

I have heard of people having this problem but it was there breaks clanging around I thought

 

Never... It's not needed on Dry pavement . I have however used the 4WD at the farm going up and down hills after having the truck for 2+ months. But, the sound was audible before I even used it at that time...

 

hahaha... He DEFINITELY owns a dodge! haha...

 

+1 on the paranoia...You'd be better off spending your time drinking beers (as long as you won't be driving after) and enjoying life than trying to get Toyota to commit to repairs on something that most likely won't be a problem.

Lesson here is- When your shit is under warranty...Take it in no matter what. Don't wait for 5 months to do something about it.