Hello everyone,
This is my first post and I look forward to learning from you.
Background:
Year: 2002 SRS
Odo: 180,000 (easy driving, no off road, family car)
Trans: 4x4
What has been done:
By me? = Nothing.
All work done by Toyota dealership (I know super expensive) since purchased. Last visit (October 2019) took to a regular mechanic. Find below a picture of items done and price. Thought of including price as that's a huge factor and I think is relevant information to all in this forum.
Now that you have this info, I have two issues I need help with...
Issue 1: Front Noise (maybe shocks?)
Noise while vehicle running here:
Toyota 4Runner 2002 Front Noise While Running - YouTube
Noise while vehicle parked here:
Toyota 4Runner 2002 Front Noise - YouTube
What is going on? I hope to do this work myself and hope to start doing as many repairs as I possibly can. I'm not a mechanic, but I am not too afraid with doing things. Please help diagnose this noise to see if I can perform the work myself.
Issue 2: Skips/stumble when steering wheel is fully engaged
Visit this link to check a short video as well:
Toyota 4Runner 2002 Skip When Turning - YouTube
Here, what you may think could be handshaking, it is not. Rather is the vehicle rocking side-to-side in a full turn. It happens going Right or Left. When backing up, sometimes it makes a pop sound and and a sudden jerk.
Furthermore, the steering is stiffer than before. I mean, when I finish taking a turn and release the steering wheel it no longer comes back to center as I straighten the car afterwards. I have to manually bring the wheels to center. Tires have proper psi.
I am committed to not replace my car. I love my 4Runner and I don't need any newer vehicles. While they may have nice features, this one is my first purchased car from the dealership and I simply love this car.
Please help and I hope I did OK with this post.