Vibrates over forty mph

2002 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER
200,000 MILES • V6 • AWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
CHARLIERC
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Vibrates over forty mph when accelerating or cruising. Vibrates at speed even in neutral. If I take my foot completely off the accelerator while in gear and at speed, it vibrates harder for a split second then smooths out until I touch the gas again.
May 30, 2017 at 9:59 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Advertisement
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 34,308 POSTS
The best suspects are the universal joints, especially at the mileage you listed. A potential clue is you may hear a metallic clanking sound each time you shift between "drive" and "reverse".
May 30, 2017 at 11:46 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
CHARLIERC
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Would that account for it vibrating in neutral at speed?
May 30, 2017 at 3:18 PM
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 34,308 POSTS
If the wheels are rotating, the drive shaft is rotating. Worn universal joints can be more likely to vibrate in neutral when there's no load holding pressure on them. It all depends on how the bearing cups are worn or broken.
May 30, 2017 at 4:17 PM