Owners of 2005-11 Toyota Tacoma pickup trucks or 2007-11 FJ Cruiser SUVs with 6-speed manual transmissions may complain of a squeak or rattle from underneath the vehicle when the clutch pedal is released.
Toyota attributes the noise to an improperly designed clutch release system, and has come up with a revised release bearing, fork and slave cylinder to remedy the condition. Note that there are two updated release bearings, depending on whether the truck is equipped with an Aisin or Luk pressure plate. You'll find the manufacturer's stamping on the outer edge of the plate.
Here are the parts you'll need to complete the repair:
- FJ Cruiser/Tacoma — Release Bearing (Aisin) — 31230-60241
- FJ Cruiser/Tacoma — Release Bearing (Luk) — 31230-60231
- All — Release Fork — 31236-35050
- FJ Cruiser — Slave Cylinder — 31470-60361
- Tacoma — Slave Cylinder — 31470-35181
"Factory Fixes" is written by Jim DePalma, a 30-year veteran of the auto repair business who has served stints as a service manager, parts manager and ASE-certified technician. His column provides vehicle manufacturers' authentic factory technical service bulletins (TSBs) that have been condensed for easier reading. Mr. DePalma advises that techs always check with a dealer or repair information system for the latest revisions before starting to work on a vehicle. He can be reached via email at [email protected].