HELP, my 4runner drives like crap

Hey all...i recently acquired a 2010 5th gen Trail edition with KDSS and 118,000 miles on it.

The body is super clean, looks nearly like new, overall interior is in amazing shape other than the typical seat bolster wear.

This is my second 2010 Trail edition, my previous one was perfect, no issues, never should have sold it, and so when I came across this one we just had to have it.

We bought it sight unseen across the country and had it shipped here to California. Unfortunately this was a mistake.

It makes a rhythmic clicking noise when I push the brake down like you would when coasting to a stop, if i hit the pedal hard, no noise. It is quite loud, and is accompanied by squealing.

Futhermore, under quick response breaking on the interstate between 50-65 MPH, the steering wheel and front end violently shakes, similarly to "death wobble" that many solid axle jeep and full size pickup guys experience.

Lastly, it just bounces around and rides really rough...at 118k could the shocks and springs need to be replaced?

I've sought some counsel from a toyota guy I know, but would like to see if you all have any ideas...

Considered front lower and/or control arms, wheel bearings, complete brake system replacement, ball joints, and suspension replacement...

Thoughts?

 

Sounds like you need new brake pads and possibly rotors. Pull a front wheel off and take a look at the pads. With 118k its quite possible they have never been changed.

Edit - yes, if your shocks are the originals they probably need to be replaced having 118k on them. No need to replace the springs unless you are wanting to do a lift.

 

Even though the pre-purchase inspection is the best in this case may be "post" purchase inspection could be a well worth investment to avoid guess work?

 

For sure, planning to get it into a local shop next week, they were backed up. Frankly a PPI is something I've done before but I didn't think it would be necessary on a Toyota 4runner....lesson learned.

 

I think regardless of the vehicle and their known reliability, it all goes out the window if proper care and maintenance are neglected.
I agree with the above sounds like it could be warped rotors? Inspection might be the best bet to avoid any unnecessary repairs.

 

Agreed! I will come back to this post after I get it into the shop next week.

 

Replace the pads and rotors for sure. Check to see if the calipers are in good working order.

Replace the shocks as well.

All standard for something with this mileage.

 

Very sweet looking ride. My favorite style 4runner with beautiful paint color. Don’t lose hope. Sounds like brake rotors/pads like others have said. It’s got low mileage, but it’s also going on 13years old. You might need bushings on the control arms just from age, especially if used hard or used infrequently.

It’s also not a bad idea to check the wheel bearings, ball joints, etc like you said.

How’s the frame? Keep in mind a PPI is about judging how the previous owner took care of the vehicle. Toyota’s reputation has nothing to do with a PPI. Good luck, she’s a beaut!!!

 

New brakes, rotors, shocks, and struts. Then an alignment and tire balance (road force). Should sort you out.

 

Did it have good service history? Also, the wobble, is that only while accelerating hard? Does it go away when you are coasting at those speeds? Need more details on this.