28th Jun 2002, 22:38

I don't think that the 'jerking' is a problem. It is just something that they do. If it is really violent, go ahead and check with different dealers, not just where you bought it. I would recommend either somehow getting yours fixed, or trading it in for another. They really are a reliable truck which is more than I can say for any other models out there.

3rd Aug 2003, 11:09

I have owned two Pre-Runners (2002 models) and have had the same 'clunking' issue with both. The first one (2002 Limited DC) clunked very badly after a relatively quick stop when brakes were released. Dealer said it was normal so I sold it, and bought a 2002 XC model and it did the same thing after about 500 miles so I sold it also. Very annoying trait. I agree with the other comment that it seems to be just releasing torque after a stop, but this should have been engineered out by Toyota, and I will not buy another one until it is.

Chuck

Birmingham, AL.

3rd Oct 2004, 11:41

I just got a 01 Tacoma Double cab with 52K I have also noticed the jerking when I come to a stop. Also the starter went out the next day; the dealer replaced it for free. I put a 3in suspension lift and 31in tires on it and it looks great. But with these smaller trucks I have noticed if there is the slightest bit of rattle (w/ the lift & tire) the rattle increase. I just don't think that these smaller trucks can handle the big change very well. But I love the truck and 4X4 abilities are just what I need.

Kebo, Montana native.

14th May 2008, 12:00

The clunking of the transmission was very noticeable for me when I first bought my 2001 double cab Tacoma.

But I've been driving it so long I don't notice it anymore.

Yes it sucked at first, but I got over it.

My problem has been the brakes, notorious for wearing down its pads quickly.

15th May 2008, 19:23

Wow all these reviews sound impressive! No wonder domestic trucks sell so many more than imports year after year...

19th Nov 2008, 10:43

I've got an '02 Double Cab with over 200K miles and it does the same thing. I believe it has something to do with the torque build up in the rear brakes and not the trans. Seems the slight "jerk" only happens when I let the brakes off after coming to a quick stop. I'm not too worried about it.

23rd Apr 2009, 11:24

I own a 99 Tacoma XC Prerunner SR5, and I also experience the jerking as described, but only after hard stops.

7th Jul 2009, 07:07

I bought a 1998 PreRunner (V6 3.4L Auto) about a month ago and have the same problem. I have read on other forums that greasing the "zerks" is supposed to help.

21st Aug 2009, 00:19

Just bought an 02 double cab and noticed the exact same problem. I lifted it 3 inches (spacer in the front and an add-a-leaf in the rear) and it went away! As much as that sound was annoying, it's great to hear that it's normal and that I didn't buy a yota ready to blow!

11th Jan 2010, 01:20

Oh, I thought it was my truck only. The problem is when you put the pedal to the metal, it will do that. Try gassing it halfway or 3/4. It will run normally - when you've driven the car like just 15 minutes, it's going to have that problem. You can only "gas it" when you've driven like 45 minutes already, the engine will be hot, and then you can show off at the traffic lights.

For the starting problem... I have no idea what happened there.