2000 PreRunner Slooowww Acceleration from a Stop

[c_jernigan]

Howdy - first post, and have an issue with my '00 Tacoma PreRunner.

I have a 2000 Tacoma PreRunner 3.4L V6 TRD Automatic - with just over 170K miles.

At exactly 170,000.0 miles the check engine light came on and I assumed that there was some pre-programed service check that needed to be performed. When I came to the next stop light about 2 miles later it seemed a bit sluggish when accelerating from a complete stop, with only 50 - 60% of the usual acceleration from zero to 15 or 20 MPH - then beyond that it is fine. Basically, the engine revs relatively loud, but it just doesn't go anywhere very fast.

I took it in to the Toyota dealership where we have had all warranty maintenance done. They saw one code indicating a possible transmission issue - which they did not disclose - but said drive it for a while and see how it runs. Well, it did fine for about 2 miles and started with the sluggishness again. I took it back and then they suggested 1) shift solenoid 2) new transmission. Since it has 170k and is almost 8 years old I went ahead with the new shift solenoid - which didn't fix the problem. I don't want to put much more $$$ into Toyota's hands because it seems like they are simply guessing. They checked the fluid and there was no metal.

There isn't any shaking, shuddering, thunking or clunking ... it makes all of the same sounds that always has - once it gets up to speed it runs fine. It seems like there is maybe a stuck valve or ... maybe a screwed up sensor??? ... and it was just really odd when the check engine light came on at 170,000 - I have ADD so I notice orange lights, odd sounds, etc in an instant. The sluggishness seems like the first 2 or 3 minutes on a really cold morning. Interestingly, the acceleration is somewhat better on cooler mornings. Today the temps are only in the 50s and it seems moderately better.

Suggestions, insights?

[ddnail]

Hey there c_jernigan, welcome to TS.
Well, sounds like you already got a good idea what it is with the stuck valve or bad sensor. A good place to start would be a transmission flush. For the cost of a new transmission, I'd try about anything first!
As far as the light's coming on at that exact same time lends itself to a bad sensor. Go to Autozone or Napa and see if they can pull a code for ya, they will do it for free. Mabey you'll get lucky and not have to replace the tranny!

[Hi Volt]

Sounds like your transmission is not downshifting all the way into first, i.e 2nd gear starts. To check this try manual shifting while you are driving. At 30 MPH take your foot of the gas and shift to second and notice the holdback on decel, at 20 MPH shift into 1st and see if the same happens. If so the manual valve body is fine, which is a good sign. I agree with ddnail to get your own code scanner, however did you pay Toyota to scan your codes the first time ? If so they must tell you what those codes are. There is most likely a speed sensor on the vehicle that feeds the ECM. Not sure on the Tacoma, but my '01 Tundra has 2 speed sensors, one for the speedo and one for the tranny. Post what you find and we can take it from there.

[Rod in Smiths Falls,]

First make sure your emergency brake isn't sticking. When I first picked mine up it wouldn't climb hills worth a hoot. Turned out one back brake drum was getting pretty hot. Once I unstuck the left rear, it ran fine.

[david37]

Forget the dealer, I agree witht the others and check out your transmission and brakes. IMO I would first try to find a good diagnostic shop, pay the $$ to find someone who can really diagnose your problem and steer you in the right direction instead of the dealer approach of replacing parts.