Shift lever moves with the truck.

I'm new to this forum. I just got a 02 3.4 Prerunner SR5. Whenever the truck is in motion the shift lever moves around. Example; when i shift into Drive and go forward the shift lever moves back, when i apply the brakes the lever moves forward. Not a lot, 1/4 of an inch or so. When driving the lever kind of floats around with the bumps and dips, acceleration and deceleration. It is kinda hard to put into words but it is like the shift lever is swimming above the transmission independent of what is going on in the cab. The mechanic said the motor mounts look fine and one trans mount is a bit out of tolerance but only slightly. I am hoping this is a characteristic of the taco and does not portend some calamity.
Anyone have any ideas?

 

its connected to the transmission, not the floor, so it moves as the tranny moves, and the tranny moves a lot as you have noticed.

 

Yep mine does same thing.

 

Normal. My 2003 did that too, more than any other vehicle I've driven.

 

^^^^ Yup. Has happened as long as I can remember

 

Maybe worn pivot bushings in your shift lever. Mine were totally gone and the lever moves a lot, after replace them is pretty steady

 

mine moves a bit as well, so did a buddys in his 4runner

 

Yep normal, my 01 has always done it. As well as my father in laws 04...

 

Mines done it since I've known along with the 4wd shifter. Good to know it's normal

 

Cool. Thanks

 

1/4 an inch? That seems like a lot, mine doesn't move nearly that much. I'd check your tranny mounts and make sure they aren't loose if it's moving that much something isn't tight all the way imo.

 

My 2000, 2002, and 2003 have all done it.