Did I break something? Tacoma 4LO issue!

Tacoma General Discussions
1

I bought a 2023 Tacoma TRD OR 4x4 in January 2025 after previously owning a 2022 2WD model. The new truck felt amazing for the first two weeks, but after using 4LO on a steep hill, I noticed a major drop in performance, it became sluggish, and my MPG dropped significantly.

I tried unhooking the battery, which temporarily improved things, but the sluggishness kept returning, especially after using 4LO again on another trip. I also hear a howling noise at 40-50 mph, which I suspect may be a rear differential issue. The dealer said everything checks out, but my truck’s acceleration still feels inconsistent.

Could a bad rear diff cause acceleration/sluggishness issues? Has anyone else experienced something similar? I have another appointment with Toyota soon and hope to get some answers.

2

Damn bro that sucks, I have a 23 OR as well. It’s possible something went wrong with the diff and it went into limp mode. If the dealer can’t find anything wrong, go to a trusted mechanic and have them drive it. It may just need to be reprogrammed or retuned.

3

In my old car when it felt sluggish sometimes I’d scoot the seat forward a click and that would help :slight_smile: