07 transmission issue

Asking for my Dad...
He has an '07 Pre runner with 100k on the odo, just this week he has been having some transmission issues.
When putting it into "D" the truck will not move and then after a second a clunk and then put back in park and then back to "d" and it moves fine.
I noticed this myself today when I moved the truck.
I am not knowledgeable on auto transmission so not sure where to turn.
Anyone think a simple transmission fluid flush will resolve the issue or something worse?
He uses the crap out of his truck but doesn't abuse it, just his work truck for around the house.
Thanks for any help.

 

Is there evidence of any leak? That sounds like the fluid level may be low. Just one possibility.

 

Thanks for the quick reply,
No leaks that we know of but I will double check tomorrow in the daylight. He also had his rack and pinion changed out a couple of months ago and the mechanic(long time mechanic) that has serviced the truck regularly said nothing about the transmission.

 

Even with no leaks, it would appear some may have come from the factory low.

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2n...-transmission-low-fluid-directly-factory.html

This thread has instructions on how to check the level.

http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/63851-how-drain-refill-automatic-transmission.html

 

I am with Docbrown ^^^^^
Sounds like the trans is low on fluid .
When you start the truck for the first time in the morning , the torque converter has to charge with transmission fluid first and then the forward clutch is applied so you can move ahead .
Is the malfunction indicator light on ? Could also be the Park Nuetral switch ?

 

I can't comment on how....or even explain it - because I've never done it myself on a tacoma.

Shifter linkages can come loose and there are lots of switches & sensors that need to be 'made' so the ECU can determine you've put it into Drive.

Check all your linkages first & foremost before assuming the tranny is toast.

This thread come to mind - I don't know if it'll help you or not. Scroll down to post #9. Crawl under the truck and check everything else in the linkages.
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/2nd-gen-tacomas/103889-automatic-shifter-problem.html

 

It wasn't by chance the brakes hanging on, was it? Its a pretty common issue when a vehicle is not driven after washing, or is parked with wet brakes, ie, driving in heavy rain and pooled water.

When you said the truck would not move, did the engine rev freely, or was it under load?

 

Thanks again for all the replies.
The truck hadn't been under any water at all, it would rev up, almost felt like it had a chock under the tire and then a clunk and it would move.