Fairly New 4runner owner concerns

[MuddyButt]

Bought my 4runner over the summer and have been pretty satisfied but I'm not yet comfortable enough to drive it like I want to. Every little sound makes me think something is going to break. I guess it's because I'm not sure if the sounds are normal or not.

The sounds and concerns I'm talking about include steering wheel shake when offroading, plastic sounds Everywhere, when shifting into gear it doesn't ease it jolts into gear. CV axles are leaking now.(lift kit install). Not sure if CV joints are strong enough for offroading.

The 4runner I own is in good condition, very little rust. Engine is in good shape 150k miles. I think I need to change the transmission fluid as well as the cv boots and then I will get a little more peace of mind.

 

[shootmymime]

Bought my 4runner over the summer and have been pretty satisfied but I'm not yet comfortable enough to drive it like I want to. Every little sound makes me think something is going to break. I guess it's because I'm not sure if the sounds are normal or not.

The sounds and concerns I'm talking about include steering wheel shake when offroading, plastic sounds Everywhere, when shifting into gear it doesn't ease it jolts into gear. CV axles are leaking now.(lift kit install). Not sure if CV joints are strong enough for offroading.

The 4runner I own is in good condition, very little rust. Engine is in good shape 150k miles. I think I need to change the transmission fluid as well as the cv boots and then I will get a little more peace of mind.

sounds like you have new owner syndrome. lol it all looks fine.

the noises while off roading could be the steering rack guide or the joint in the steering wheel shaft.

your cv axles look normal for a lift. they will leak and eventually the boots will give. keep reading and searching and you will find answers soon enough. Welcome to the family!

 

[deverlow]

Depending on how much lift you've got I would strongly consider a front diff drop. It will at least ease the CVs into a gentler angle and help them last longer. Otherwise get used to noises and plastic sounds; your's ain't the first and won't be the last to do that.

 

[MuddyButt]

It has a 2.5 inch lift in the front. Deverlow. And yea I'm sure I'm just paranoid. I just
can't afford to fix anything right now

 

[gamefreakgc]

"Jolting" into gear is quite normal for these transmissions, especially when the fluid is cold. Don't worry, these 4Runners are almost bomb proof. Sure parts will wear down and the suspension won't last forever (will start to ride poorly) but it's not about to fall apart on you.

 

[MuddyButt]

Thanks for reassuring me gamefreakgc I'll beat it like I did the xterra I had before this. I was used to all the loud noises on that one since it was in the family for 15 years. Sold it at 250,000 miles. Hopefully this 4runner will double that mileage.