Four problems related to differential unit have been reported for the 2002 Toyota Tacoma. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2002 Toyota Tacoma based on all problems reported for the 2002 Tacoma.
The rust on the rear end assembly is so severe that the brakes are compromised, and the back up emergency brake system has failed. The rust on the differential housing is so severe that the fluid has leaked out and the gears are at risk for catastrophic failure. The spring mounts to the axles are also rusting severely, creating a risk of lost control should either side break away. It takes great effort when braking, and the vehicle pulls severely due to rust causing the loss of integrity of the braking system. The brakes, once applied, do not release evenly, creating uneven brake wear, shuddering and shaking, resulting in poor control, excessive and uneven tire wear, I. E. , tires locked and dragging, scalloping. On wet, and I fear, icey, surfaces, the truck has slid sideways due to one or more wheels not releasing.
The contact owns a 2002 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the frame started to deteriorate. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the technician applied an under coating to the frame. The contact stated that the coating eventually wore off. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. Updated 04/21/lj the consumer stated he made an appointment for the corrosion frame recall. Before the appointment, he noticed a lot of oil droplets on the tail gate of the truck, as he drove off, he noticed a puddle of oil. An inspection revealed, the differential case was leaking and it needed to be replaced because it was extremely rusty. Also, the frame was rusted, and it needed to be replaced. Updated 04/24/14.
Rusted out rear differential - 2002 Toyota Tacoma.
Gas tank shield severely rusted. Under side of gastank is protected by a shield/skid plate. It is rusted so badly that when hit with a hammer the hammer goes right through. Presumably this shield is to protect the gas tank from debris and stones especially if the truck is used off road. I discovered this as I was inspecting the underside of the truck before dropping the truck off at the dealer to have the frame replaced. In addition to this, it is apparent that the drive axle and differential housing also have severe rust. If tapped with a hammer the rust comes of in sheets. The parking brakes actuating levers have rusted in place and can no longer be used. There appears to be more to this rust than simple frame rust. The rust is pervasive through out the underside of the truck.