Persistent Vibration Issue with Unknown Source

[power6417]

Hello,

I’m experiencing persistent vibration issues with my 2010 GX460. On November 1, 2023, at 155,452 miles, I replaced the driver’s side wheel bearing, hoping to resolve a constant humming noise typical of a bad hub bearing. While the noise reduced slightly, it didn’t fully go away and remains more noticeable when turning right (starting at 20 mph and becoming more pronounced when navigating on- and off-ramps). The vibration and noise continue up to 60 mph.

Thinking the passenger-side bearing might also be causing the issue, I replaced it on January 4, 2024, at 159,393 miles, using another part from BluePitBearings with OEM components. However, the noise persists.

My mechanic suggested taking the car to a Toyota dealer for a more specific diagnosis. On March 4, 2024, at 160,827 miles, I went to the dealership, where the technician identified a separate noise coming from the driver-side rear wheel. Due to the high cost of replacing the rear hub bearing, I decided not to proceed with the repair.

On March 16, I visited Mavis Discount Tire for a wheel alignment and asked them to check the hub bearings. The alignment manager 'suspected' that the right-side hub bearing was likely the source of the noise.

I've been busy with work, and now, as of December 2024 (167,--- miles), the vibration and noise are still present. Ever since the ambient temperature dropped to near freezing, the vibration has become noticeably stronger at 60 mph, easing somewhat around 70 mph. I’m beginning to suspect the issue might be related to the front differential (front and rear differential fluids, as well as the transfer case fluid, were replaced at 149,855 miles). This persistent problem has been incredibly frustrating, and I’m exhausted from the ongoing back-and-forth without finding a resolution.

For reference, I was previously running 33-inch KO2 tires but have since switched back to the stock 4Runner tires and wheels. Additionally, are there any Toyota/Lexus specialists in North NJ you guys would recommend? I’ve been unable to find one. Alternatively, will take suggest a reliable- truck, axle, or 4x4 shop that might be able to help with my issue.

Thank you for your time and assistance.

 

[bj70bc]

id listen to toyota's diagnosis
go back to them and re diagnose it

 

[r2m]

Any issues with brakes or front suspension components?
May also consider a good Toyota off road shop to look at it also, considering they are usually very familiar with all kinds of suspension, brake, rattles, and wobbles.

 

[power6417]

Any issues with brakes or front suspension components?
May also consider a good Toyota off road shop to look at it also, considering they are usually very familiar with all kinds of suspension, brake, rattles, and wobbles.

There’s just a slight pulsating so far, nothing too intense. I’m planning to replace the rotors and pads for both the front and rear, along with the parking brake shoes and a brake fluid change in January. That's my hope to find a reliable off-road shop that specializes in Toyotas in NJ (north, preferably but if I need to travel, I will)

 

[r2m]

There’s just a slight pulsating so far, nothing too intense. I’m planning to replace the rotors and pads for both the front and rear, along with the parking brake shoes and a brake fluid change in January. That's my hope to find a reliable off-road shop that specializes in Toyotas in NJ (north, preferably but if I need to travel, I will)

If you're replacing the rotors with factory ones, check to see how much meat is left on your current rotors. If they have a lot, then consider having them turned. It'd cost only about a $100 for all of them and will get rid of the pulsating.

 

[power6417]

If you're replacing the rotors with factory ones, check to see how much meat is left on your current rotors. If they have a lot, then consider having them turned. It'd cost only about a $100 for all of them and will get rid of the pulsating.

Ah, I see. I'm not entirely sure what I currently have, but I ordered the PowerStop Z36 front and rear kit to improve braking performance and get more bite and stopping power. What do you think?

 

[vipergrhd]

I love the part were the mechanic/shop says take it to the dealer, what they are saying is we don't want to waste our time chasing noise and you won't get it fix or we know what it is just don't want to deal with it.

I like Akebono or Advics, good bite and dust is minimal compared to others. IMHO.

 

[r2m]

Ah, I see. I'm not entirely sure what I currently have, but I ordered the PowerStop Z36 front and rear kit to improve braking performance and get more bite and stopping power. What do you think?

I've never used PoerStop. I couple of the guys here have after market rotors and pads. If they chime in (are you reading this MrTorque?) they can give a more hands on review. I just have the factory that had to be resurfaced twice. I'm really easy on brakes and use down shifting a lot on grades and hills, but for some reason these rotors want to either build up or get a little warped after about 30,000 miles. I'm just starting to feel that pulsating now, but it's not to the point of turning them yet.
Sorry couldn't be more help...

 

[Jstawgn]

Take the caliper off and try to push each piston to see if they are sticking. It's a fairly common issue. More common in GX470 but still can happen on GX460. Rebuild caliper are not that expensive or even brand new.

Front driveshaft can cause issue too but it usually feels like almost like engine miss fire.

 

[rav8]

Ah, I see. I'm not entirely sure what I currently have, but I ordered the PowerStop Z36 front and rear kit to improve braking performance and get more bite and stopping power. What do you think?

I think I went with the same kit. Bed them in correctly and be mindful of severe braking instances, which can bond pad material to the rotor. I made a habit (after the same issues in my 4Runner) of timing my stops about five feet ahead, then releasing the pedal to creep a bit before holding again. May be placebo effect but I believe I've extended the life of both pads and rotors by doing this.