Growling noise at 35mph+

02 4Runner in need of advice. I have a noise (growling sound) which starts @35mph and above. I’m thinking it’s my hubs/bearings and have been told that. I still need to pull the wheels off and do the tug/pull test.

 

We have an ‘02 Sequioa with the same issue. (Same differential and axles? Not sure). Definitely the bearings, whether wheel or differential carrier. Fix was beyond my meager mechanical skills. Still not silent, but better.

 

I have the same type of “harmonic” growling on my 02. I’m thinking driveshaft as it’s seems to be coming from below the center hump area where my feet are. Possible needle bearing like my Tundra has. Or is it the infamous unbalanced driveshaft?? I have no idea.

 

I had what sounded like a failing wheel bearing on my Scion once (I know, different vehicle). One shop put it on a lift and used a stethoscope, and said there was a noisy bearing in the manual transmission. Since they don't do trans work, I took it to another reputable shop, who diagnosed a bad tire. Yes, that fixed it, years ago. I never heard a sound like that from a TIRE. So maybe rotate your tires first to see if the sound moves.

 

Engage 4wd and see if it goes away. If it goes away you can bet your sweet ass it's the needle bearing in the front differential - very common problem.

 

I had the same issue with my 99. It’s the drive shaft “knuckle”. These need to greased at like every other oil change which I’m sure you never did. Kid of a cheap fix. 200.00