Bad U-Joint **SOLVED**

Hello all, I have a 2008 pre runner v6 and I recently started to get this weird squeak noise coming from my rear. It seems to happen more when accelerating but also sometimes happens when braking or just cruising. It’s most noticeable when going from a stop to around 30 mph.

it happens regardless of if I’m turning or going straight. The frequency seems to go up as I go faster so I’m assuming it’s something related to the drive system and not suspension.

I took two videos, (all in neutral with parking brake on) of me jiggling the wheel / where the driveshaft connects to the diff, and a video of shaking the drive shaft near the transmission where I can here some sort of loose metal noise.

if anyone has any ideas please let me know!
https://youtu.be/t6VKD3gYXVQ?si=vJ9FMdXQBqjaxDI7

https://youtube.com/shorts/1-_cVhPDfFY?si=FjMad2z5h82HaeXx

 

"Squeak noise coming from rear"...hmm.

 

Look around all the u-joint caps for rust, I'd suspect you have a bad/stiff u-joint.

 

I did some more research, I stumbled apon a video that shows an 07 tacoma with a bad U-joint and the sound is nearly identical to what I am experiencing. I think mine are just starting to go back since its still subtle but I assume it'll just get worse. I'll update the thread if I find a result!

Link to the video I found: https://youtu.be/rbLqNHumXOA?si=-APn9oU7BbE342Ql

 

Id guess ujoints first

 

Are the U-joints just a normal wear component or should they last a long time? Im at 130k miles.

 

130k!!?!?! wow, have you ever greased them??

 

Forget about how long they should last. Drop the driveshaft and check them. The symptoms you describe really sound like a bad u-joint

 

No, I haven't greased them since the prerunner ones don't come greasable. I'll probably drop the driveshaft sometime this week when I have time and update yall.

 

its a normal wear item. Depending on conditions could last less.

 

owners manual, open it frequently, read maintenance schedule, DIY, save money...

 

Just FYI, they may be non greasable ones. then its just R&R and make sure you mark your driveshaft before you pull it.

 

Excellent evidence.

 

If it were me, I would first grease the u-joints and if squeak goes away I would ride it out. But others with more experience might suggest otherwise, or replacement, to avoid catastrophe. I don't know... Hoping the best for you and I'm curious to know how this works out.

 

Yep, I'm old enough to remember the non-greaseable type from the 60's. Only the better quality brands had zerk fittings. Both 3rd. gen. Tacos I owned had zerks.

 

If its squeaking prob already damaged...just my .02cts

 

^^^ I agree ^^^.

 

I had the same noise on my 2014 PreRunner AC at 142K miles. Replaced the drive shaft propeller and u-joints. Solved the problem. Prior to the replacement, there was quite a bit of play, all fixed now.

 

OP said it's a squeak, not a grinding. I'm just saying, sounds like he caught it in time before any damage, which a little grease might fix the squeak and prevent any damage.

 

Another thing i've noticed more recently is when I accelerate harder than usual, I get a noticeable vibration until I let off.