2007 Toyota 4Runner Sport rear grinding noise

During acceleration and deceleration there is a grinding noise coming from the rear. It's not a 4x4. There is no vibration when driving, no clunking noise, no shaking of the steering wheel when driving, etc. There are no braking issues or issues when turning. It's not the rotors or brake pads as this was checked out already. Toyota dealership diagnosed the issue and told me I needed to replace the drive shaft and u joints. Due to cost, I went and had a 2nd opinion and that mechanic diagnosed the noise as coming from the rear differential assembly. Took the vehicle back to the dealer and questioned their diagnosis and asked how they determined it was the drive shaft. My service ticket noted the time in and time out and they spent all of 12 minutes on my diagnosis and claims it was only driven a short distance back and forth in the shop. I never received a straight answer as how it was needing a drive shaft and u joints. 2nd mechanic said these were okay and there was no play in the u joints. He took video and sent it to me.

Dealer offered another diagnosis for free from their "Master Mechanic/Shop Foreman and I said okay. They kept the 4runner for 4 days and now they are saying it is the rear differential assembly and wanting $3000 for repairs. I feel as if I was being taken advantage of with the 1st diagnosis from them because I am a female. Sad, but that's how I feel. Would a metal to metal noise come from the assembly if it was going bad? Toyota isn't too happy with me at this point and I had to fight them this morning to even get the paperwork from the 2nd diagnosis.... Beyond ridiculous.

Has anyone else experienced anything like this? The noise is the same as when the rotors are bad and you hear a metal to metal noise. It's constant while driving. I'm afraid to drive it now and questioning what I'm being told. I took it to the dealer thinking they are most knowledgeable and I find out they are arrogant, unprofessional people who have yet to admit they made a mistake. It has 115,000 miles on it and otherwise has had no issues whatsoever and never been wrecked, etc. I asked the dealer had they checked the hub bearings, the caliper, the emergency brake line, etc. and I received a look as if I had 3 heads. I was hoping it would be a less costly item to repair, but I am doubtful. Could something just be lacking grease? Hopeless in Houston....

 

So I am guessing they didn’t even check the rear for grease, I think I would find someplace else to take it. Ask around, maybe some people here are in your area, and can give you a lead to a shop they trust.

 

None of my suggestions were receptive at this dealership in Baytown, TX.

You are correct. It does sound as if something simply needs to be greased/lubed. Thank you.

 

Members from Texas, time to maybe help a lady out.