Transfer Case Rattle 2010 Tacoma

Hello everyone,

I have a 2010 Tacoma TRD with just over 190,000. Bought it new and outside of regular maintenance I haven't had to do a thing to it until it hit 170K where I've had to replace a front wheel bearing and ujoints.

This past week though I started to hear a rattle I think in the transfer case.

When in park or neutral, no rattle, but when I shift into reverse or drive I hear a rattle, but I don't feel any vibration when driving and no difficulty shifting. I just hear what sounds like a rattle against the case wall or something.

Once in gear the rattle will go away and then comeback. Some there is no rattle. Very inconsistent.

Before I bring it in I was hoping to maybe get an idea from here what it could be?

Any input would be greatly appreciated

 

Catalytic converter heat shield rattling. Welcome aboard

 

Welcome to TacomaWorld!

 

Thanks for the welcome and input. Makes sense to me. At this mileage any rattle can tend to cause a shiver, lol.

 

Welcome to TW!!

 

Yep, start with the small things then go up from there.

 

170,000 mi. Is just the recommended break-in period for a Taco.

 

Well, noise is gone. Driving home from work I heard a couple pings under my truck as if I ran over something but then looked in my rearview mirror and saw the two pieces bouncing off the road, ugh.

Looks easy enough to do myself. Question is do I need to do this asap or can I wait till payday? It is winter in New England so the cold temps may help.

 

The upper and lower pieces of the catalytic converter heat sheild. The shield above attached to the floor board is still intact.