Transmission vibration or other drive train issue newbie question

2017 limited 4x4- just got this truck. It's my first V8 full-size. I think I am noticing vibration just before a shift between first and second then second and third just over 1,200 to 1800 RPM when there is reasonable torque applied- ie starting from a stop going up a small hill with a fairly stiff acceleration.

At first I thought it might be U-joints, but I would expect would be a more constant situation not isolated to certain power bands during shifting.

Any thoughts from experts out there would be appreciated.

 

These driveline vibration problems are hard to diagnose with only a brief description of the problem. So...consider this a bump back to the top for the attention of smarter people.

The fact that the vibration begins just before the 1-2 shift and the 2-3 shift says to me that the problem is in the transmission, and not in other areas of the driveline. If you've never checked the transmission fluid level, that's probably a long shot starting point, but worth the trouble. There's a procedure for this; transmission has to be at a certain temperature range.

If the fluid level is OK, then I would try a full transmission flush and fill. You may not have the 60-70K miles on it that's recommended for extreme service, but the PO may have abused the transmission. There's a procedure for this; little bit of work and a little complex, but manageable for most DIY.

If the transmission still has the vibration after these steps, I would start with the best Toyota dealer in your area, and see if you can get warranty coverage. Toyota dealers do not work on transmissions, they only replace them ($XXXX). If the transmission isn't covered under warranty, I believe I would get recs and references for a good honest transmission shop and let them check it out. It may have a weak shift solenoid, worn valve body/low clutch pressure, etc. etc. not a transmission expert.

Edit: If you think you still have warranty coverage, then you should probably skip all of the above, and go directly to the dealer for diagnosis and warranty repair.

 

Thanks so much. The truck has 13,000 miles on it. No difference if its cold or not. Will get it in for a look. I put a 3/2 level/lift on it so I hope they dont tell me they cant help me since I modified it...

 

We just purchased a 2019 Limited 4 WD about 2 months ago. No vibration, but there is a distinct thump after accelerating in drive. This only happens on the first acceleration after starting the engine. Doesn't happen after stopping and going again after that first time after starting the engine. It sounds like its coming from the bed. I cleared everything out of the bed and it still happens. Has anyone had this issue? Is it a mechanical problem that needs to be addressed or just something I need to get used to?

 

No way I would get "used to" it. Two month old truck?...take it back to the dealer.