Warning - Broken control arm bolt!

[CB900F2]

Hey Guys...

This morning while I was pulling out of my drive way, I felt and heard a thump come from the front of the car.. Thought, OH THAT IS WEIRD!

While I started to drive down the road, every bump or when I braked, again the thump.. I said to my self, hmm this can not be good.. So I went in the afternoon to the dealership to have it checked out the following was found..

On the passenger side, on the lower control arm, one of the two bolts secures the control to the sub frame, the bolt head corroded and broke off (see attached photo)..

Well here comes the good part.. The S.A stated that there is a service bulletin for this issue of these bolts corroding and breaking off, and they are going to replace the following.. Control arms on both sides of the car, all bolts, and the cradle as there is a new design of control arm and cradle.

I would strongly suggest that you check out the bolts on your car to see if they are corroding as I would not want to see someone be driving on the highway at a good speed and the bolt head breaks off and possible separation of the control from the sub frame then lose control of the car…

Form the photo, you can also see that this bolt was cracked for awhile as the bolt shaft was all rusted where the bolt head broke off.

[tk-421]

Thanks for the info! :thumbsup:

It would be great if you could provide the TSB itself so that we can add it to the compilation:
http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9753

[06silveryaris]

Thanks I will check mine for premature wear this weekend

[auxmike]

Wow, this sure looks like a potential recall item to me.
It's broken after just 2 years service!:eek:

[yarrr]

Thanks I will check mine for premature wear this weekend

extremely doubtful in puerto rico. This is caused by road salt, and I have a feeling a lot of canadian cities are using some harsher/cheaper salt as 90% of complaints on YW about corrosion are from canada

[devinlamothe]

Is this just for the sedan or also hatch? I checked my bolts and they seem OK.

[CB900F2]

Hey guys.. Sorry for a late responce, but all is well.. the following parts where changed out

- Both lower control arms on each side
- 2 new bolts (not sure which ones)
- Crossmember
- And they use some 3M sealer what looks like areas where water might get into the frame and bolt area to seal it up

The TSB# they reference is TSB 3271. I asked the dealer to get a copy or look at it and no luck.. So if anyone has access to TSBs, and and if you can find this one, I am very interested in seening what is says.

thanks guys..


Thanks for the info! :thumbsup:

It would be great if you could provide the TSB itself so that we can add it to the compilation:
http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9753

[auxmike]

Wow, I'd like to check it out too...:iono:

[NH3R717]

I noticed corrosion on the steel parts underneath my car sub frame, maybe i should take some pics and make a post.

[Kangaru]

Warning - Broken control arm bolt!

I had this issue happen on my 2007 model Yaris Sedan assembled by Central Auto Woks. I am out of warranty, and the fix is around $16 for parts(2 bolts) and around 3.5-5 hours labour.

I had noticed that the driver side had the clunk mentioned in the first post, I took it in and yes it was broken. The dealership said the passenger side was so corroded it could break too, so they replaced both. My local dealership denied that my car was part of the TSB3271 because of how the VIN numbers went. I did a simple VIN check and noticed that the production change was some time in 2009, and mine being a 2007 has the older control arm and bolts.

I would urge anyone with a 2006-2009 model Yaris hatch or sedan to go get that inspected within the warranty period. If you live in an Northern US area or Canada(like myself) the road salt corrodes the bolts and causes them to break. If the bolt breaks, its a $400-500 job to replace, and a new control arm runs around $500 per side. I was provided the TSB in a PDF format from a technician who works at a Toyota dealership outside my area. Toyota has been less than helpful about this problem, and they say...sorry its out of warranty.

I still have a claim with Toyota Customer Care, because I was lied to about the TSB applying to my vehicle. I was also told that because I didn't get my vehicle serviced by an authorized Toyota dealership, that they cannot help me. This is a full out load of BS.
It doesn't help that the people on the phone know very little about cars, and rely on what the dealership says only.

I would normally not care if something broke on my car outside warranty, and would pay for it. This is not normal, its not something that gets inspected or serviced. Its a faulty part that could lead to injury or death.

If you are in warranty or perhaps the extended warranty, most dealers will replace everything. Toyota knows about the problem, and so did the technician I know. If you are outside...(15,000kms) and a year like me...looks like Toyota says your screwed.

I would like to post the TSB, anyone know the best way to post a .PDF?

[p123456789]

I wonder if this is something to worry about maybe we could upgrade the bolts in ours before they break. how could toyota over look such a potentially huge problem.

[staticorex]

I could have sworn I got a recall notice from Toyota about this months ago. :iono:

Edit: I now see this thread started last year. That makes sense.

how could toyota over look such a potentially huge problem.

Yeah, next thing you know there will be problems like a Prius not stopping or something. :laugh:

[Hershey]

We tried to present this to a TOYOTA service center for our 2008 sedan that had about 24,000 miles on it at that time and the service manager says " No , we will not look at it . You can't believe everything off the internet " . This is the same dealership that replaced the M.L.S. head cylinder gasket due to an exteranl oil leak from the #1 cylinder . We've tried to get several other TOYO service centers to inspect the control arms and they say no T.S.B. , so no need to and if we do look at it , it's at your expense . :mad: . We know how you feel about TOYOTA stepping up to the plate with issues such as yours and ours with owning a 2008 YARIS sedan that had an external oil leak and a 2010 that still does . :thumbdown:

[Shroomster]

We tried to present this to a TOYOTA service center for our 2008 sedan that had about 24,000 miles on it at that time and the service manager says " No , we will not look at it . You can't believe everything off the internet " . This is the same dealership that replaced the M.L.S. head cylinder gasket due to an exteranl oil leak from the #1 cylinder . We've tried to get several other TOYO service centers to inspect the control arms and they say no T.S.B. , so no need to and if we do look at it , it's at your expense . :mad: . We know how you feel about TOYOTA stepping up to the plate with issues such as yours and ours with owning a 2008 YARIS sedan that had an external oil leak and a 2010 that still does . :thumbdown:

I wonder why they turned YOU down....../sarcasm \roll eyes

[CB900F2]

Kangaru... Regarding the posting of the TSB you have, just post it as an attachment in the section "Manage Attachments" and upload it...

I am very interested in the TSB

Thank you

Warning - Broken control arm bolt!

I had this issue happen on my 2007 model Yaris Sedan assembled by Central Auto Woks. I am out of warranty, and the fix is around $16 for parts(2 bolts) and around 3.5-5 hours labour.

I had noticed that the driver side had the clunk mentioned in the first post, I took it in and yes it was broken. The dealership said the passenger side was so corroded it could break too, so they replaced both. My local dealership denied that my car was part of the TSB3271 because of how the VIN numbers went. I did a simple VIN check and noticed that the production change was some time in 2009, and mine being a 2007 has the older control arm and bolts.

I would urge anyone with a 2006-2009 model Yaris hatch or sedan to go get that inspected within the warranty period. If you live in an Northern US area or Canada(like myself) the road salt corrodes the bolts and causes them to break. If the bolt breaks, its a $400-500 job to replace, and a new control arm runs around $500 per side. I was provided the TSB in a PDF format from a technician who works at a Toyota dealership outside my area. Toyota has been less than helpful about this problem, and they say...sorry its out of warranty.

I still have a claim with Toyota Customer Care, because I was lied to about the TSB applying to my vehicle. I was also told that because I didn't get my vehicle serviced by an authorized Toyota dealership, that they cannot help me. This is a full out load of BS.
It doesn't help that the people on the phone know very little about cars, and rely on what the dealership says only.

I would normally not care if something broke on my car outside warranty, and would pay for it. This is not normal, its not something that gets inspected or serviced. Its a faulty part that could lead to injury or death.

If you are in warranty or perhaps the extended warranty, most dealers will replace everything. Toyota knows about the problem, and so did the technician I know. If you are outside...(15,000kms) and a year like me...looks like Toyota says your screwed.

I would like to post the TSB, anyone know the best way to post a .PDF?

[Hershey]

" I wonder why they turned YOU down......"

We were polite at that time . What you expect ? Bring a cake ? :drool:

[Kangaru]

We tried to present this to a TOYOTA service center for our 2008 sedan that had about 24,000 miles on it at that time and the service manager says " No , we will not look at it . You can't believe everything off the internet " . This is the same dealership that replaced the M.L.S. head cylinder gasket due to an exteranl oil leak from the #1 cylinder . We've tried to get several other TOYO service centers to inspect the control arms and they say no T.S.B. , so no need to and if we do look at it , it's at your expense . :mad: . We know how you feel about TOYOTA stepping up to the plate with issues such as yours and ours with owning a 2008 YARIS sedan that had an external oil leak and a 2010 that still does . :thumbdown:

Living in Orlando, I would be highly doubtful that this bolt would corrode and break. The TSB I have is a Toyota Canada TSB. The thing is, many areas of the north-eastern US, throw as much salt on the roads as parts of Canada does. I only live 60 miles from Buffalo, NY and can say that the weather is just as bad or worse there. I think Toyota needs to address this issue as 4-5 year old Yari' will be needing this service if you live near the ocean or the rust belt. Toyota Canada told me the whole don't believe everything you read either. I rebutted with what about the TSB or the Technician that told me about it...they returned with well, you are out of warranty.

Anyways here is the TSB3271...half of it is "en francais"

[Hershey]

Living in Orlando, I would be highly doubtful that this bolt would corrode and break. The TSB I have is a Toyota Canada TSB. The thing is, many areas of the north-eastern US, throw as much salt on the roads as parts of Canada does. I only live 60 miles from Buffalo, NY and can say that the weather is just as bad or worse there. I think Toyota needs to address this issue as 4-5 year old Yari' will be needing this service if you live near the ocean or the rust belt. Toyota Canada told me the whole don't believe everything you read either. I rebutted with what about the TSB or the Technician that told me about it...they returned with well, you are out of warranty.

Anyways here is the TSB3271...half of it is "en francais"

We're from the northeast not Florida. They use road salt almost everyday here during the winter so we're concerned as well.

[Kangaru]

I am from the northeast not Florida. They use road salt almost everyday here during the winter so I am concerned as well.

My bad, I misread someone elses post. Yeah if your from the North East, I would for sure get that in to get inspected. Funny, Toyota Canada said it is part of a regular suspension check...yet you can only see the bolt head. Just tell them you notice a small clunk in the suspension, bring that TSB and they might warranty it for you. They get paid anyways, not as much, but it keeps the Tech's busy. A regular suspension check is usually done at a service interval anyways, ask to go out and see the car on the hoist...if they let you, request they fix the rusted bolts.

[Hershey]

That's fine , it happens . We brought the picture posted by CB900F2 with T.S.B. # , presented it to the service center manager and he says in a annoyed tone of voice " You can't believe everything you see on the internet and the T.S.B. is only for CANADA " . :rolleyes:

[bB2NER]

I smell trouble in Toyotas future if this gets bad in Salt Belt USA. I've had brake lines and other stuff rust to pieces in MI.
What does Toyota USA customer service say about the issue?

[Twistoffate0817]

I do not know anything about car parts, but I just went outside and looked around my tire and underneath the car near the tire and there is a bolt on each side of my front tires, above the tire and they both are rusted. Since I do not know where to look and what I am looking for I will be bringing my Yaris to the dealership to have them look for rust. The only thing I can say that has to do with this topic is about 4-5 months ago I went over a speed bump and heard a metal on metal sound in the front passenger side tire area. Have not had it checked out due to sound never occured again.

[auxmike]

Just crawled under the car and snapped A few quick pics since I hate reading about something and not seeing exactly what is being written about.
Crappy 3.2MP BBerry shots for ya...
My car is JTDJT932XXXXXXXXX Vin with build date of 1/08. Does that mean I'm ok according to the TSB????
The bolt HEADS look mint, is the real bad rust hidden where you can't see it? Also, can this one bad bolt be changed DIY without the whole drivetrain being supported??

[Hershey]

Thanks Auxmike , good work :clap: . Those bolts / nuts and under carriage look as if they're from a newer YARIS . Must be due to the use of less road salt . Ours are rusted quite a bit , tons of salt used on these roads . I'll have to get a picture of them . Our '08 sedan is T92348 . So , I take it we're fine ? On occasion we've heard a creaking noise coming from the front of the '08 sedan . Like that of bushings of the strut , there's 30,000 miles on it . Our trust of the TOYOTA corporation is gradually rusting away . Last , how's your possible oil leak doing ? Thanks again .

[Kangaru]

My car is JTDJT932XXXXXXXXX Vin with build date of 1/08. Does that mean I'm ok according to the TSB????

Your bolt heads look very clean, perhaps your area of "New Yawk" uses a less salt than other areas. Maybe you had the bottom rustproofed, or you run that mofo through a carwash frequently blasting the underside. Either way it looks good, one of the bolts does look a little corroded, but I cant tell what one it is...its pretty dark.

Is your car a Sedan or Hatch? cause your vin is a little strange...should start with "JTDBT923" if it is a sedan built at Central Auto. They made all the control arm/bolt changes the MY2009. They moved production of the Yaris a few times since 2006 from factory but all should, or would have used the same suspension until the change. Most of those components are made by suppliers to Toyota.

For VIN comparison, I did a free Carfax search and it tells you the make model and production date. Compare it to the examples provided and you should have your answer. The TSB is only a Toyota Canada one, so getting it fixed could be a little more problematic at the US dealerships. If it does need replacement it would be worth a phonecall to Toyota Motor Sales...and they might help you better than a dealership.

[Kangaru]

Update

I just returned home and got a phone call from Toyota Canada Inc. They are sending me a reimbursement cheque for 50% of the bill. It took an hour long call to one of their agents, and about a week of "investigation" on their part.

They never outward admitted any faults with the car, or even said anything about its relation to the TSB...I guess thats so they cover their own butts. To me, it says we were at least partially wrong, otherwise I would have paid for the whole thing, and that would have been the end.

My point is,
If this happens to you, make note of the TSB to the dealership, also some research on your car, and its relation to the TSB build dates. The dealerships won't admit any faults that Toytota has, they aren't really allowed to say "yeah its a known issue" especially if its for current in-production models. You will have to Call Toyota's Customer Interaction Centre, file a complaint, give them all the info you can provide to further your case. They WILL try to get you to say you caused it, like hitting a bump or curb, and just ignore their accusations. They will also try to convince you that the TSB has no bearing on your case, as its out of warranty. Just let them know how unsatesfied you are with the product, and how something like that should NEVER break. It should be noted that the people on the phones usually know little about cars, they are just trained to deal with customer problems. They will usually try to refute everything you say, but be persistant...and try to be polite as I was. The last thing they told me was that they are going to look into it further, but not to expect any other contact.


It took about a week of no contact, then they just leave a message saying we have mailed you a re-imbursement cheque. No reason why, just here is half of your money back. I dont know if this is standard practice, but regardless they are recognizing something.

I would request anyone who had this happen to follow the same steps. Perhaps they will fell pressured to do a recall. This site also helped my case, and brought it to my attention as I gave Toyota Canada Inc. the link to the same problem, they said they would look at it.

[MickZEL]

You are still good guys live in Moscow roads watered reagents are even rubber wheels razedayut.Seychas understood opastnost begin to depart from the reagents

[Hershey]

You'll find the manufactured date of a YARIS half way up the driver side I-pillar ( door frame ) . Tells what country built in as well .

[Hershey]

" The last thing they told me was that they are going to look into it further, but not to expect any other contact . "

We got the same reply from the service center and the customer relations when we asked for them to let us know if anything was found wrong by TOYOTA corporation with the factory installed multi layered steel head cylinder gasket of the 2008 sedan that was removed due to an external oil leak from the #1 cylinder . No leak as of yet with the new one that was installed under warranty in early September of 2010 . TOYOTA corporation of Japan can be sly . That's why we're not likely to buy another TOYOTA . We're very likey to stick with the 2008 sedan and the 2010 3 door to the semi-sweet end .

[auxmike]

Your bolt heads look very clean, perhaps your area of "New Yawk" uses a less salt than other areas. Maybe you had the bottom rustproofed, or you run that mofo through a carwash frequently blasting the underside. Either way it looks good, one of the bolts does look a little corroded, but I cant tell what one it is...its pretty dark. Is your car a Sedan or Hatch? cause your vin is a little strange...

Where I live we had a LOT of snow this winter. They do use salt too. That rusty part is from a bolt that's fastened at the top. the piece you see is the threaded part sticking out. I tried to figure out what it does, mabye it holds the steering rack down?
I never go to the car wash in winter or even wash the car.
My car is a hatchback and that is the correct VIN. According to the TSB pic I posted above, my VIN is ok even though it's a 1/08 build date.:iono:

[theidiots]

Wow. I just got my Yaris back from the shop. Same problem. I my case the bolt snapped. Luckily the car kept driving. I took it in for an oil change and the mechanics were surprised that I was able to drive the car. They wanted to know when I was in an accident with my Yaris. They claim to have never seen anything like it.

Over $800 in damage for this $10 bolt - all labor.

We have a lot of potholes here. I suspected that I hit one and damaged the suspension. This still left me with a big deductible payment and now my issurance will go up.

Thanks to this site I'm calling Toyota and will offer them pictures of the snapped bolt.

[theidiots]

Strange. Toyota (800-331-4331) told me that they have no record of this service TRB. They opened a case for me and are investigating.

Stay tuned.

[theidiots]

OK.

I called back because I was told that Toyota would call me by 4/22 End Of Business since they had to contact my dealer and find more information.

I was told today that I somehow agreed to do the research into this matter!

So, if anyone can point me to a document with a Toyota source that describes this bolt problem please post a link to it.

Thank you.

[devinlamothe]

Can you replace these bolts yourself?

Sorry for the thread resurrection but this has now been posted on RedFlagDeals lol

[WeeYari]

I'd totally forgotten about this thread. Although the TSB states HBs are affected, it only appears to be sedan owners reporting issues here. My '06 HB with a build date of 09/2005 shows absolutely no issues with suspect bolts.

[devinlamothe]

I'd totally forgotten about this thread. Although the TSB states HBs are affected, it only appears to be sedan owners reporting issues here. My '06 HB with a build date of 09/2005 shows absolutely no issues with suspect bolts.

Yeah I checked mine again and they still look fine, no rust on them.

Maybe we are lucky - mine was manufactured in '06.

[OTA'sTOY]

T-SB-0055-11
Clunk Noise from Front Suspension
covered under 3y/36k
This TSB applies to 2007 – 2011 Yaris Sedan and Yaris Hatchback vehicles produced BEFORE the
Production Change Effective VINs shown below:

Hatchback Shokki
JTDJT4K3#B5330321
JTDKT4K3#B5330321

Sedan:
Kanto JTDBT4K3#B1404325
Central JTDBT4K3#B4081013

[auxmike]

Isn't this Canada only? My hatch. Vin doesn't even have a letter B in it!

[enviri]

I had this done last year. I had that knocking sensation for a few weeks and they swapped bolts no problem. It happens.

[Firefly]

im from the chicago land area and we get lots of salt
i bought a small tub of axle grease and greased all of the hardware and lines /fittings /threads/cotter pins and ABS sensors with a small brush
i also bought a 1 gallon chemical sprayer and a gallon of crisco veg shortening heated it up in some boiling watter and sprayed every inch of the underside of the car and the bottom foot of the doors (except the hatch) il use babby oil or wd40 on that
im also going to respray/grease the car this fall but with non hyd vegie oil like i did my 02 saturn
i love seeing all the rusted out early to mid 2000 fullsize trucks (i guesse thay catch my eye first in northern MI)and knowing that an 8$ sprayer and a gallon of vegy oil every fall mabey a can of red spray grease would have saved the wheel arches and rocker panels from rusting

[djb]

So it's safe to take these bolts out (one at a time) and eyeball the shafts? I don't think you can tell much just from looking at the heads.

At 125000km, my wife's 07 is long out of warranty.

[devinlamothe]

So it's safe to take these bolts out (one at a time) and eyeball the shafts? I don't think you can tell much just from looking at the heads.

At 125000km, my wife's 07 is long out of warranty.

I didn't even take the bolts out. I just checked the bottom and the heads seem OK.

I am WAY out of warranty too (pushing 250,000km).

[sex]

55k miles on my hatch. Replaced both sides. Rusty on the drivers-side. Pics attached of driver-side old vs new, and passenger-side old vs new.

[CTScott]

I keep meaning to replace mine on all three of my Yaris, but keep forgetting to order them when I order other parts.

[auxmike]

Anyone have the part numbers? What's the torque spec on them?

[CTScott]

Anyone have the part numbers? What's the torque spec on them?

90119-14126 (They are about $4 each)

Torque is: 118 ft lbs.

[auxmike]

Great! And 4 are required?

[sex]

Two. I spray-painted the underside of the head and washer in hopes that'll slow down the rust. My guess is the bushing traps water between the crossmember and washer causing the bolt to rust through. I changed mine without lifting the car. Very easy to do

[Hershey]

Ramps ?

[Billiam]

I pulled mine out about a year ago and they looked fine. I coated them in high temp bearing grease and reinstalled them. I figure that couldn't hurt. Next time I do an oil change I might take another look at 'em to see how they've done bathed in grease.

[otterhere]

Gee, I'd been wondering whether or not to replace my 2008 Yaris hatch, VIN JTDJT923, etc.; this must be a sign...................... I don't see how to get a FREE carfax report on my vehicle; they want $39 for one? I'll just check my car's paperwork to see if it's ok.

[sex]

No ramps for me, car is stock height. auxmike has some pretty good pics at the beginning of this thread showing the bolts

[Hershey]

How'd you fit and work under it w/o ramps ? You be an X-man ? Slim Jim man . :biggrin:

[otterhere]

Ya'll are a bunch o'mechanics on here! I'm just a girl; someone tell me if my VIN is safe.

[CTScott]

Ya'll are a bunch o'mechanics on here! I'm just a girl; someone tell me if my VIN is safe.

You need to list two more digits.

[MUSKOKA800]

One of mine broke. Dealer quoted more than $800 to do the TSB. I bought the updated bolts for less than $20 and paid a shop 1.25 hours to remove the broken and intact bolts and replace them. Updated for less tha CA$150.

[Hershey]

^ That's usin' the ol' noggin' :bonk: . :thumbsup: ^

[otterhere]

You need to list two more digits.

VIN JTDJT92348

:iono:

[CTScott]

VIN JTDJT92348

:iono:


Yours is OK. All three of mine are not within the range either, but it is so easy to replace them that I figured I would do so as a just in case, and coat the new ones with an anti-corrosion coating.

[kou]

Just noticed this thread. Guess i have to check/change and seal them my vin is good for the tsb but unless this is a lifetime thing at 80,000miles i think i will have to do it myself.

[otterhere]

Yours is OK. All three of mine are not within the range either, but it is so easy to replace them that I figured I would do so as a just in case, and coat the new ones with an anti-corrosion coating.

Thank you! Unlike most of you on here, I'm clueless; can barely put gas in it.

:redface:

[DebbyM46227]

T-SB-0055-11
Clunk Noise from Front Suspension
covered under 3y/36k
This TSB applies to 2007 – 2011 Yaris Sedan and Yaris Hatchback vehicles produced BEFORE the
Production Change Effective VINs shown below:
[LEFT]
Hatchback Shokki
JTDJT4K3#B5330321
JTDKT4K3#B5330321




I know this is an old thread...but I've been hearing a clunking noise now and then too, and I'm confused about the VIN number. The sound is very intermittent and I am taking mine into the dealer Friday....it has less than 19K miles on it, and I'm still under the original warranty. I thought this was only for model year up to 2009.

Here's part of mine: JTDJT4K39A5289---
I don't have the pound sign in my VIN Number. What is the # sign after the "3" in the VIN above?

[CTScott]

I know this is an old thread...but I've been hearing a clunking noise now and then too, and I'm confused about the VIN number. The sound is very intermittent and I am taking mine into the dealer Friday....it has less than 19K miles on it, and I'm still under the original warranty. I thought this was only for model year up to 2009.

Here's part of mine: JTDJT4K39A5289---
I don't have the pound sign in my VIN Number. What is the # sign after the "3" in the VIN above?

The # sign is basically saying to ignore that digit. A is less than B, so it is applicable to your Yaris.

[DebbyM46227]

Thank you CT!

[CTScott]

Actually, I was just looking at the TSB again and the B is the plant code in the VIN, so it looks like only Yaris with a B before the six serial number digits are affected, so that means that your A would not be applicable.

[DebbyM46227]

Darn, but I think I'll take this TSB with me anyway. I've been hearing this clunking sound starting around Sept. 2010 and back then it rarely did it, so didn't bother taking it in as then it would have been a waste of my time. Now I'm hearing it more often.

[Twistoffate0817]

I looked at mine a few hours ago and they look fine.

I dont think I have had the clunking noise, but can anyone describe it a bit better?

I am OCD when it comes to this car and always think something is wrong with it. :P

[DebbyM46227]

It's hard to describe the sound. It's just ONE clunk that comes out of nowhere - loud, you can hear it above the radio (I don't have my radio cranked up THAT loud though), more like a knock than a clunk - it seems to come from underneath the car a little in front of where the passenger would put their feet if stretching out their legs. Mine is towards the passenger side of the car.

I have OCD with my car too, it all began with my Cavalier I had before the Yaris. I had the Cavalier 13 years and the last year it was one idiot light coming on after another. I became paranoid after driving that car.

[kelevra]

Good info, thanks.
I think I'll change 'em out myself as a matter of course.

[DebbyM46227]

Actually, I was just looking at the TSB again and the B is the plant code in the VIN, so it looks like only Yaris with a B before the six serial number digits are affected, so that means that your A would not be applicable.

CT, I printed out the TSB and took my car in last Friday anyway. They said my car was affected, and they ordered the bolts. I had the car there again this morning to swap them out for the new ones, my old bolts were starting to rust.

[CTScott]

CT, I printed out the TSB and took my car in last Friday anyway. They said my car was affected, and they ordered the bolts. I had the car there again this morning to swap them out for the new ones, my old bolts were starting to rust.


Very good. So, that must mean that B plant code cars are affected as well.

[auxmike]

Got this in the mail, interesting. I've already changed mine out myself though..

[Hershey]

Wonder if we'll get one . There's creaking / crunching that's more frequent .:frown:

[auxmike]

You might since you're in the Northeast. Most people who get this notice won't have a clue what the bolt is about anyway...

[BLH]

Got mine in the mail today.

[CoryM]

I pulled mine out in summer after it had been dry for a few weeks and about 250ml of water came out of the left hole. I can see why they rust out.....

[nookandcrannycar]

Got mine in the mail today.

I just picked up 12/18's mail and mine came as well. I wonder if they only sent the notice to owners who purchased their cars in cold weather areas, or if they sent them to everyone. I purchased my car in Rhode Island, but the factory delivered my car to another dealership owned by the same corporation in Litchfield, CT (about 30 miles from Sandy Hook). The letter makes me feel a bit unsettled....essentially if you aren't experiencing an abnormal noise, put the letter away in your owner's manual....really?....sounds like waiting until something is half broken before addressing it. Am I being paranoid? As anyone can see from my detail area, I'm way over the mileage limit.

[yariseggvvti]

My 07 yaris hatch always making click metal sounds when i back up. Is this sound will do anything to the lower control arm.

[DevilGirl]

I wonder if I'll get one of those letters... If so, sure hope it arrives soon... I'm already over 94k and average 500-600 miles a week... There's definitely creaking going on...

[Hershey]

It's cheaper for TOYOTA to do a T.S.B. than a recall . It's up to the TOYOTA service centers to determine if needed under a T.S.B. . While a recall would make it a must . I wonder if the techs even know what to look for ? We've had the creaking for 2 years or more . Took it to the shop where the '08 sedan was bought new and they said it was fine . Said they couldn't duplicate the sound . Figures :rolleyes: . Just think how much time it would take to fix all YARII from '06 > '11 . It's about a 8 hour repair . That would be lots of money from TOYOTAs pocket due to labor , parts , and sales that could tarnish their reputation more .

[fatlard]

How do I know if my bolts need replacing?

I am in Chicago. The only weirdness is when I back out of garage and stop.. I hear a quiet thump....

[nookandcrannycar]

It's cheaper for TOYOTA to do a T.S.B. than a recall . It's up to the TOYOTA service centers to determine if needed under a T.S.B. . While a recall would make it a must . I wonder if the techs even know what to look for ? We've had the creaking for 2 years or more . Took it to the shop where the '08 sedan was bought new and they said it was fine . Said they couldn't duplicate the sound . Figures :rolleyes: . Just think how much time it would take to fix all YARII from '06 > '11 . It's about a 8 hour repair . That would be lots of money from TOYOTAs pocket due to labor , parts , and sales that could tarnish their reputation more .

My car has never been on a road with salt on it. My car has only been in Texas and California (coastal metros) during winters and never in the mountains in either state during the winter. I'm also not hearing any sounds. Given all of this, do you think following what the letter suggests is good enough?

[speedy]

I'm in Tennessee and got it, i am also hearing a creaking sound didnt know what it was until i got this and still not sure if that is it. Now What? Take to dealer?

[edmscan]

I haven't heard anything weird on my Yaris and we have salt on our roads about 7 months a year. I don't know if I will get a letter from Toyota, but nothing so far.

[WeeYari]

^ I've no issues with mine either.

Even if I did get a letter from Toyota, I'm so far beyond the coverage period they're extending it'll be useless to me.

[fnkngrv]

The only damned letter that I ever received was for the insulation in the B pillars...damn it

[auxmike]

I never received the power window switch recall....

[jRoss]

Can someone take a picture and post it so I can locate this bolt? Please :)

[jRoss]

I felt something weird when I was braking the other day, I went over a sewer drain and I swear I felt/heard something shift/rattle. I have a hunch this could be it.

[CTScott]

Can someone take a picture and post it so I can locate this bolt? Please :)

49360

[MadMax]

Got my letter today, doubt it will be an issue but will file it away just in case.

But I wonder how many people are going to start hearing noises based on their receipt of this letter?!? :iono:

[nookandcrannycar]

Got my letter today, doubt it will be an issue but will file it away just in case.

But I wonder how many people are going to start hearing noises based on their receipt of this letter?!? :iono:

LOL.....and more apt to hear it if within the new extended warranty.

[Hershey]

Could call Toyota customer service and ask if the T.S.B. is on its way . Think it's 1-800-331-4331 . May try it tomorrow .

[nookandcrannycar]

49360

Thanks. In addition to your garage being heated, you must have the most well lit garage in Connecticut! If I'm able to get a look at my Yaris on a rack (my tires are due for their free rotation :biggrin:) and notice any rust at all on the head of either bolt, would that be reason enough to have it looked at by a Toyota dealer?.......Or would the lack of any of the sounds that others have described (and a lack of any other sound as well) mean that all is likely okay?

[DebbyM46227]

It's cheaper for TOYOTA to do a T.S.B. than a recall . It's up to the TOYOTA service centers to determine if needed under a T.S.B. . While a recall would make it a must . I wonder if the techs even know what to look for ? We've had the creaking for 2 years or more . Took it to the shop where the '08 sedan was bought new and they said it was fine . Said they couldn't duplicate the sound . Figures :rolleyes: . Just think how much time it would take to fix all YARII from '06 > '11 . It's about a 8 hour repair . That would be lots of money from TOYOTAs pocket due to labor , parts , and sales that could tarnish their reputation more .

I took mine in 2 or 3 weeks ago for the creaking (thunk) noise. Gave them the TSB I printed out from the forum. It's just 2 bolts they have to order and replace, not an 8 hour repair. Went back a couple days later and I was there 90 minutes.

[DebbyM46227]

I felt something weird when I was braking the other day, I went over a sewer drain and I swear I felt/heard something shift/rattle. I have a hunch this could be it.

That's when I first started hearing the rattle, more like a thunk sound. Since my bolts were replaced, I no longer hear it.

[CTScott]

I took mine in 2 or 3 weeks ago for the creaking noise. Gave them the TSB I printed out from the forum. It's just 2 bolts they have to order and replace, not an 8 hour repair. Went back a couple days later and I was there 90 minutes.

It actually takes me longer to put one of my cars on the lift than it does to swap out the bolts, but if one was sheared off, it would turn into a nightmare job, which is probably why the TSB lists it as an 8 hour job.

[Hershey]

Debbie is fortunate . Good to see it was a pleasant experience .

[Hershey]

One day we thought we heard a loud snap from the front as if something broke off due to being under pressure . Maybe it was debri on the road :iono: .

[TOLMACH]

It actually takes me longer to put one of my cars on the lift than it does to swap out the bolts, but if one was sheared off, it would turn into a nightmare job, which is probably why the TSB lists it as an 8 hour job.

Does it makes sense just not to wait till it brakes but to have it replaced?

Looks like I could do this even on my parkade without a lift (just by jacking the car)

[CTScott]

Does it makes sense just not to wait till it brakes but to have it replaced?

Looks like I could do this even on my parkade without a lift (just by jacking the car)

I think so. I did all three of my Yaris a couple of months ago, just to be safe, for about $12 total.

[TOLMACH]

I think so. I did all three of my Yaris a couple of months ago, just to be safe, for about $12 total.

Thanks

Just received an e-mail from my toyota dealer - they claim they 've never heard about this problem

will think what to do

[nookandcrannycar]

I took mine in 2 or 3 weeks ago for the creaking (thunk) noise. Gave them the TSB I printed out from the forum. It's just 2 bolts they have to order and replace, not an 8 hour repair. Went back a couple days later and I was there 90 minutes.

Thank you. This is very reassuring. My hesitancy re getting it checked out (even though sans noise) was fueled quite a bit by thinking an examination might likely equal a 'no return trip' to a repair that could end up taking 8 hours.

[nookandcrannycar]

It actually takes me longer to put one of my cars on the lift than it does to swap out the bolts, but if one was sheared off, it would turn into a nightmare job, which is probably why the TSB lists it as an 8 hour job.

^^^^^:thumbsup: I wish Toyota (via the T.S.B) had described this the way you did above. It would have saved those of us who are out of warranty the thought of needing a potential 8 hour repair.

[yariseggvvti]

I took those bolt out two month ago and install UR lower 4 point bar. I dont see anything wrong with it.

[Hershey]

Called Toyota and they gave a reference number for when brought in . There's creaking from the rear end as well ( culprit ? ) . Have it in stereo at times :biggrin: . Anyway , here are the bolts taken yesterday ( right ones I hope ) . Look o.k. ? Last , how does CT get his undercarriage so clean ? :wink:

[CTScott]

Called Toyota and they gave a reference number for when brought in . There's creaking from the rear end as well ( culprit ? ) . Have it in stereo at times :biggrin: . Anyway , here are the bolts taken yesterday ( right ones I hope ) . Look o.k. ? Last , how does CT get his undercarriage so clean ? :wink:


I would really like to see one of the bolts that has failed on someone's car.

With the size of the bolts I don't believe that they can rust deep enough to weaken enough to fail. I have a funny feeling that the bolts in question have an issue where they were made either too soft or too brittle.

For the rear creaking, the springs or rear brakes are usually the culprit of that one. My 09 was doing it and I hit the perches with a light coat of silicone oil and it went away.

Don't you wax the bottom of your car too?

[Hershey]

" I would really like to see one of the bolts that has failed on someone's car. "

Would be nice to see a picture of the snaaped off bolt . Very slim chance .

" With the size of the bolts I don't believe that they can rust deep enough to weaken enough to fail. I have a funny feeling that the bolts in question have an issue where they were made either too soft or too brittle. "

Makes sense .

" For the rear creaking, the springs or rear brakes are usually the culprit of that one. My 09 was doing it and I hit the perches with a light coat of silicone oil and it went away. "

Thanks .

" Don't you wax the bottom of your car too? "

No :smile: . Don't wax the cars at all :biggrin: . A lift sure would be helpful . Maybe Santa will drop one off .

[CTScott]

I ran into my old ones today and did a comparison with a set of new ones (I always keep some on hand in case someone comes by that hasn't had them replaced yet).

49381

My old ones, which had about 25,000 miles and 4 Winters on them just had light surface rust on the threads and very light surface rust at the base of the head. The interesting thing that I did notice is different markings on the head. In theory, this would mean a different bolt strength class, but according to the service manual, for a bolt with an included washer, either one or two marks means that the bolt is a class 6T bolt.

At least, if nothing more, the changed markings allow one to easily tell if they have new ones (old left, new right):

49382

[edmscan]

I would think that it would be in very extreme cases that those bolts would break. Rust .. yes maybe but I think that it would take some bad conditions to make them fail. But what do I know.

I will maybe have the Toyota dealer check on mine the next time I am there, next spring for my oil change.

[Hershey]

Thanks ! We have the old bolts :frown: . Wonder if Yaris Claus ( a.k.a. CT ) will replace them Christmas . Will leave cookies , milk , and a socket wrench kit in the trunk .

[CoryM]

I am assuming they rust through to a certain point, then the high forces of the subframe blows the head off the bolts. There is a huge load on the subframe bolts when flexing the body. As I said, one of my bolts was completely immersed in water even after 2-3wks of no water exposure (rain or washing). If you live in a salty part of the world, you could have those bolts immersed in salt water 365 days a year. In marine applications it is possible to lose almost 1mm/yr of steel. In Scott's picture of the old bolts, the one on the left is through the zinc near the head of the bolt. Once the zinc coating is gone, those 14mm(?) bolts won't last long in those conditions. And that location is typically where bolts will pop apart under tension as well.

I keep forgetting to see if I can read the TSB at work yet. I am curious if they are doing anything to prevent water/salt from getting into the bolt holes again or not. My right side has a little crash damage, which allows the water to drain, so it's easy enough to correct.

[Yury]

I don't quite understand it. My Yaris is 2008 with JTDKT vin, but according to the tsb it's not affected as it follows the production change on Shokki plant. How come some the TSB says 2006-2009? Are there some 08s made after some 09s?
And should I trust the tsb?

[Yury]

Another thing, anyone had issues with bolts in the rear wheel arches (not too sure, probably subframe bolts) in front of the wheels? I am seeing some rust on those. Not necessarily a cause for concern as the bolts are intact, just wondering.

[yariseggvvti]

When I backing up and come to complete stop I hear like metal click noise. Is this due with lower control arm bolts defect. Please advice. Thanks!

[Lafiro]

I have this noise as well. Its actually very loud over some bumps. I just received a ZTU about this in the mail that Toyota will now cover the defect on late 2006 to early 2009 Yaris with up to 7 years and under 100,000 miles. Too bad I am at 117,000 miles.

Also, with the car off, I can push it back and I hear a loud squeaking sound as well! What in the world is this now? Could it be the control arm bolts just moving and producing the same sounds as over bumps? Or this is something completely different?

I also noticed a new noise. Its like a metal on metal vibration when the car gets warm/hot (even now in winter). As long as the car is in Drive and at a stop, it vibrates loud. Same again when first accelerating from a stop or at a low speed. What can this be?

Can someone help me please. I can't figure these out.

[CTScott]

I have this noise as well. Its actually very loud over some bumps. I just received a ZTU about this in the mail that Toyota will now cover the defect on late 2006 to early 2009 Yaris with up to 7 years and under 100,000 miles. Too bad I am at 117,000 miles.

Also, with the car off, I can push it back and I hear a loud squeaking sound as well! What in the world is this now? Could it be the control arm bolts just moving and producing the same sounds as over bumps? Or this is something completely different?

I also noticed a new noise. Its like a metal on metal vibration when the car gets warm/hot (even now in winter). As long as the car is in Drive and at a stop, it vibrates loud. Same again when first accelerating from a stop or at a low speed. What can this be?

Can someone help me please. I can't figure these out.


The control arm bolts are easy to check. Even if you can't jack it up to take a look, you can at least feel for them. The pictures below shows where the bolts are located and what the bolts runs up through.

http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=49360&d=1355970795

49411

With the pushing back sound, if the bolt broke it could definitely be that.

The metallic sound may be from one of the exhaust shields having pulled through the head of the mounting bolt.

[Mrsrd08]

I wonder if they will reimburse me for having the motor control arm replaced due to this issue with the bolt?

[bronsin]

I ran into my old ones today and did a comparison with a set of new ones (I always keep some on hand in case someone comes by that hasn't had them replaced yet).

49381

My old ones, which had about 25,000 miles and 4 Winters on them just had light surface rust on the threads and very light surface rust at the base of the head. The interesting thing that I did notice is different markings on the head. In theory, this would mean a different bolt strength class, but according to the service manual, for a bolt with an included washer, either one or two marks means that the bolt is a class 6T bolt.

At least, if nothing more, the changed markings allow one to easily tell if they have new ones (old left, new right):

49382


Can I have them? They look OK to me? :confused:

Seems like everybody could R&R these bolts themselves, check them out, and replace them if need be.

If a quart of water comes out when you remove it, yeah, thats something that should be on the yearly to do list.

[bronsin]

Can you just unscrew the bolt, take a look at it, and put it back without disturbing anything?

Or do things go out of alignment when you remove the bolt and its trouble getting it back in?

Whats the socket size?

Thanks!

[CTScott]

Can you just unscrew the bolt, take a look at it, and put it back without disturbing anything?

Or do things go out of alignment when you remove the bolt and its trouble getting it back in?

Whats the socket size?

Thanks!

It is 19mm. You can remove it and reinstall it without issue.

[JarHarms]

Never got the TSB but our Yaris had the LHS bolt fail (bolt head fell off, control arm flopping around) due to this issue. I was out of state on a work trip so it was repaired (at our expense >$1000) at the dealer. We were told that they had awhile invested in the bolt extraction....sissies. Two new bolts and two "un-nessesary" control arms later.......:thumbdown:
Water collects in that area, corrosion weakens the bolts, suspension forces overcome bolt strength, control arm flops around, leading to noise and an unsafe condition.
I highly doubt Toyota will reimburse anything unless the failure rate is high enough to require a mandatory recall. "Recall" something Toyota wants to avoid like the plague.

**Then Toyota mails a lame 36,000mile warranty extension out for this issue. Yea, thanks.

[bronsin]

Never got the TSB but our Yaris had the LHS bolt fail (bolt head fell off, control arm flopping around) due to this issue. I was out of state on a work trip so it was repaired (at our expense) at the dealer. We were told that they had awhile invested in the bolt extraction....sissies. Two new bolts and control arms later.......:thumbdown:
Water collects in that area, corrosion weakens the bolts, suspension forces overcome bolt strength, control arm flops around, leading to noise and an unsafe condition.
I highly doubt Toyota will reimburse anything unless the failure rate is high enough to require a mandatory recall. "Recall" something Toyota wants to avoid like the plague.


I would be taking this up with Corporate if I were you. See an attorney first.

On second thought see an attorney that specializes in things like that and see Toyota in court. :headbang:

[CTScott]

Can I have them? They look OK to me? :confused:

Seems like everybody could R&R these bolts themselves, check them out, and replace them if need be.

If a quart of water comes out when you remove it, yeah, thats something that should be on the yearly to do list.

Before they fail they are very easy to replace and they are not torqued to where to need anything more than a 18" breaker bar or a normal ratchet with a piece of pipe as an extension.

The TSB calls for some seam sealing, but where it shows it, it is all down hill of where those bolts thread into. At only $3 each, I will keep some extras around and will pop them out and take a peek once or twice a year (when switching between Winter and Summer rims is my ideal time to do so).

[CoryM]

I had a look at the TSB at work today.

They will replace (with updated parts):
Subframe
Ctrl arms
Bolts

As well as they apply seam sealer which appears to try preventing water from filling up the panel that the ctrl arm bolt goes into. I guess they figure that's where the water gets in from. Job pays 5.5hrs WARRANTY time (regular time will be higher).

For most people the best idea will be to remove/inspect, and replace those bolts as required. Salty areas may want to do a yearly check. Next time I have my car on the lift I will see if there is an easy way to make the water drain out by itself. Might just take a drilled hole, or a little cut with a grinder. I completely covered my bolts with axle grease so they shouldn't rust again, but I guess I should actually fix the problem and not just the symptom. :biggrin:

Cheers.
Cory

[bronsin]

I had a look at the TSB at work today.

They will replace (with updated parts):
Subframe
Ctrl arms
Bolts

As well as they apply seam sealer which appears to try preventing water from filling up the panel that the ctrl arm bolt goes into. I guess they figure that's where the water gets in from. Job pays 5.5hrs WARRANTY time (regular time will be higher).

For most people the best idea will be to remove/inspect, and replace those bolts as required. Salty areas may want to do a yearly check. Next time I have my car on the lift I will see if there is an easy way to make the water drain out by itself. Might just take a drilled hole, or a little cut with a grinder. I completely covered my bolts with axle grease so they shouldn't rust again, but I guess I should actually fix the problem and not just the symptom. :biggrin:

Cheers.
Cory

As long as people take the precautions you suggest I see no problems. You should suggest this to Toyota and save them a few million...:laugh:

[bronsin]

Can anyone publish a link to the TSB?

Thanks!

[Hershey]

Got the notice earlier .

[narly charley]

Just got my letter in the mail today. They are doing a 100,000 mile or 7 year coverage for the bolt. I'll take it in when I see that it's starting to go. Damn this salt!!

[FrankM]

i hope it dont snap off when i try to take it out to look at it , if it looks good should i leave it alone ? Thank Frank

[auxmike]

I changed out both of mine. They weren't that bad. They did have what looked like mulch on them. I think they get like 118 ft lbs. pretty good workout while laying on ones back!

[nookandcrannycar]

It is 19mm. You can remove it and reinstall it without issue.

:thumbsup:

[nookandcrannycar]

I changed out both of mine. They weren't that bad. They did have what looked like mulch on them. I think they get like 118 ft lbs. pretty good workout while laying on ones back!

:thumbsup:

[Don777]

the bolts rust off at the head

Canadian tsb

sample invoice for repair I found on net

I have been spraying 2 or 3 + times a year,, the whole area with rust check, spraying in every hole in the suspension and sub frame

2006 yaris HB 125,000km, so far so good,, Ontario Canada

I would not recommend trying to get the bolts out if they are old or already starting to rust as the head would probably snap off

[Don777]

here's what I have re bolt corrosion images

[JumpmanYaris]

I wonder if this was for the 07 sedan as well

[CTScott]

I wonder if this was for the 07 sedan as well

Yes - It is for Sedan's as well.

[CoryM]

Was working on a 2012 SE today and it looks like they still haven't corrected the problem. Loosened both bolts with my impact gun (doing alignment) and both sprayed rusty water at me. Not good. I think the best fix for most of us would be drilling a small hole to drain the water, rather than trying to prevent water from getting in. I need to align my car soon, so will try to figure something out and take pictures while it is apart.

[JumpmanYaris]

That will weaken the bolt

[CoryM]

That will weaken the bolt

Drill the subframe, not the bolt :wink:

[Hershey]

Yesterday , brought the T.S.B. to service center and they said they look fine . Also denied to fix a waterpump ( different post ) .

[FrankM]

what will happen if it brakes when i am driveing the car at 65 on the high way , do i die ? do you lose control of the car ?

[FrankM]

Drill the subframe, not the bolt :wink:

can you post a picture of where to drill the hole , THanks That would be a big help .

[Hershey]

Wish they would just replace the bolts :frown: .

[FrankM]

i dont want to try to take them out , to change them ,if they should brake off , it will be a big job.

[FrankM]

i take it you drill the holes about a half inch to the side of the bolt head , so the water can drain out ?

[Yaristeve]

Got the notice earlier .

I just received mine a couple of days ago. It's not a recall notice. It just a warranty extension notice (both miles and time, neither of which I remember off hand) on the part. The notice says that the problem does not warrant a recall because it is not a critical defect because even if the bolt head falls off, the arm is still captured by the brace underneath it (see Don777's pictures, post #54). If the head falls off, the driver should hear the clunking and then he should take the car in for repair.

[FrankM]

so if it brakes , you dont lose control of the car , just asking ? sounds like a big deal to me .

[CTScott]

so if it brakes , you dont lose control of the car , just asking ? sounds like a big deal to me .

It won't cause any catastrophic issues if it fails, since it is captive in a pocket. The worst that will happen is that it will thump around in the pocket. You can see the pocket in the picture that I posted in the other thread:


http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=49411&d=1356725031

[CoryM]

As CTScott said, it is unlikely that the control arm will come out. I say unlikely because it is still possible. While the broken part of the bolt will contain the control arm, there is no tension on the threads to hold the bolt in. So if you drive it and do not hear, or notice the noises that (presumably) it is making eventually it is certainly possible that what is left of the bolt will work it's way out. That being said, if the bolt rusted enough to break, chances are the threads are rusted as well which will help hold it in. I'm willing to bet that eventually someone, somewhere, will have the back of a control arm bolt fall completely out. I'm always amazed at what some people do not notice on their cars. Some people drive with wheel bearings so noisy you have to yell to be heard over them, and they have no idea there is something wrong.

In regards to where to cut/drill to drain the bushing, I haven't had a chance to get my car on the rack yet (and I need to re-align my car any time those are out. Rebuild/Racecar :þ ). In the above picture, in the middle of the black rubber part that CTScott drew a line through is a metal cylinder that the bolt goes through. That cylinder (sleeve) is what needs to be drained. So either a small nick in the edge of it, or a cut in the subframe below to help drain. Toyota is trying to seal it, which may or may not be feasible.

Cheers.

[LugNut]

This repair covered for non-original owners?

[vadr45]

This repair covered for non-original owners?

Yes. I am the second owner and I received the warranty extension last week.

[Crazy Butcher]

I get some rattling/creaking noise at about 1500k rpms to about 2k rpms, especially on the front driver side, could this be the cause of the rattling/creaking? as soon as i get over 2k-2.5k rmps it stops. it happens mostly when its cold outside. It also happens oftenly when i take off at lights and stops since i go back down to the 1.5k 2k rpms range.

[CTScott]

I get some rattling/creaking noise at about 1500k rpms to about 2k rpms, especially on the front driver side, could this be the cause of the rattling/creaking? as soon as i get over 2k-2.5k rmps it stops. it happens mostly when its cold outside. It also happens oftenly when i take off at lights and stops since i go back down to the 1.5k 2k rpms range.

Possibly. Stick your hand down there and see if you feel the head of the bolt or if it is gone.

[Crazy Butcher]

Thanks alot Scott ill check it out tomorrow, its been doing it for more or less a week now, should've posted the first day it did it

[clarenceie]

I live in dry California. Do you think I should change this out? I went to the Toyota owners site and didn't see any recall regarding this.
Just for reference, what is the part number and how much should it cost approx?

[CTScott]

I live in dry California. Do you think I should change this out? I went to the Toyota owners site and didn't see any recall regarding this.
Just for reference, what is the part number and how much should it cost approx?

The bolts are 90119-14126 (2 are required and they cost less than $4 each).

I suspect that everyone will eventually get the warranty extension notice. I think it is worth at least keeping an eye on them. If they don't look too rusty, pull them out and check the entire bolt. If the head looks rusty at all, then it is probably best to avoid being the one to snap it off.

[Cutie Pie #2]

Just got my letter today, and yes I do hear a creaking noise in the front that it says, so I will be making a trip to the dealership soon.

[Kaotic Lazagna]

Haven't got a letter in the mail yet, but I might as well go to the dealership and buy those bolts. I don't recall seeing any rust on my car when I installed/uninstalled the Megan tie bars.

[Kaotic Lazagna]

Well now, my local dealership is charging me 15 bucks for 2 bolts.

[nookandcrannycar]

Well now, my local dealership is charging me 15 bucks for 2 bolts.

That's the Bay Area for ya.

[Kaotic Lazagna]

That's the Bay Area for ya.

:frown:

Parts guy laughed at me when I said I thought it was 4 bucks each :frown:

[Kaotic Lazagna]

Special order too, so I gotta go back and pick it up tomorrow.

[CTScott]

:frown:

Parts guy laughed at me when I said I thought it was 4 bucks each :frown:

http://www.toyotapartszone.com/oem/toyota~bolt~for~front~suspension~lower~arm~no~2~lh ~90119-14126.html

[Kaotic Lazagna]

http://www.toyotapartszone.com/oem/toyota~bolt~for~front~suspension~lower~arm~no~2~lh ~90119-14126.html

Thanks, Scott. But shipping killed that. It'll end up costing 20 bucks, so 5 over the dealership's cost. Maybe I shouldn't complain now. :laugh:

[edmscan]

I went to my local dealer here in Edmonton .. and I was quoted $28 for 2 bolts. So the bay area isn't really all that bad I guess.

[CTScott]

Thanks, Scott. But shipping killed that. It'll end up costing 20 bucks, so 5 over the dealership's cost. Maybe I shouldn't complain now. :laugh:

You just have to order a few more parts to spread out the shipping.

[Kaotic Lazagna]

You just have to order a few more parts to spread out the shipping.

Ah, I see. I'll have to keep that in mind the next time I need something. :thumbsup:

I honestly don't think I'll need the bolts, but can never be too safe, right?

[nookandcrannycar]

I went to my local dealer here in Edmonton .. and I was quoted $28 for 2 bolts. So the bay area isn't really all that bad I guess.

Wow. Do you think that price (within Canada) is unique to Edmonton, or would Calgary, Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Winnipeg, etc. be similar?

[edmscan]

Wow. Do you think that price (within Canada) is unique to Edmonton, or would Calgary, Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Winnipeg, etc. be similar?

I don't really know, but I would think that the price is typical. From what I have seen it is not uncommon for many things to be priced MUCH more in Canada.

I saw a tv show this past week called "Marketplace", and they were comparing prices between US and Canada. Some items were not too bad (tires were 32% more in Canada) but some prices were crazy (aspirin was 132% higher). Auto parts from what they showed were close to double (see below). So the price I saw at the Toyota dealer probably is common.

Seeing as how our dollars are virtually on par ... it is just that we are getting screwed in Canada. Unfortunately I live way too far from the border to take advantage of lower US prices.

I have linked to the show I watched: http://www.cbc.ca/marketplace/episodes/2013/02/price-tag-confidential.html

Edit .. the auto part they showed was a "transmission safety switch", it was 203$ when selling to the US and 389$ when selling to Canada. So 92% more in Canada.

[marcus]

i might have this issue..anyone in canada/GTA tried to get this done??

[marcus]

does this apply to canadians i got 2007 yaris over 100k km but i think i may have this issue..

[CTScott]

i might have this issue..anyone in canada/GTA tried to get this done??

Yes - You might. For Canada it is TSB3271

[marcus]

Yes - You might. For Canada it is TSB3271

would it matter if i got over 100k km on this and its almost 6 years old..

[Kaotic Lazagna]

They gave me two-mark bolts.

[racerb]

If you still need these bolts, Sparks Toyota in Myrtle Beach SC has them at a very good price, they are the go to Dealer in our area!

http://www.trademotion.com/parts/2010/TOYOTA/YARIS/?siteid=214631&vehicleid=1444575&diagram=8327200&diagramCallOut=6

racerb :thumbup:

[marcus]

guess what..i email toyota canada with my vin and they said my car dont fall on that tsb or this recall... :(

[bestyaris]

Just passed 110k....no........

[NEexpat]

This appears to be a simple "replace". Couple of $4 or $5 bolts, breaker bar or torque wrench and a 19mm socket.

Until you shear one off, then forget it....................................thats why I haven't done mine.

Will probably bring it to the dealer for them to do it at some point.

OH, btw the TSB I have on this is 0078-12

Anyone else seen that one?

[nookandcrannycar]

Couple of $4 or $5 bolts

Not in the San Francisco Bay Area :biggrin: (couldn't resist).

[nookandcrannycar]

Not in the San Francisco Bay Area :biggrin: (couldn't resist).

Actually, the member I had in mind when I typed this was Kaotic, but the price I had in mind was edmscan's (the only poster quoted more than Kaotic). No other alternate choice makes sense for either given two each of that one item, but it's too bad their rates aren't more in line with what others are seeing. It's a negligible amount of money, but it's still irritating.

[UberSilver]

Not in the San Francisco Bay Area :biggrin: (couldn't resist).

I bought two today for $4.15 each. Toyota One in Oakland.:thumbsup:

[Kaotic Lazagna]

Not in the San Francisco Bay Area :biggrin: (couldn't resist).

:laugh:

[Kaotic Lazagna]

I bought two today for $4.15 each. Toyota One in Oakland.:thumbsup:

WHAT!? :frown:

[Kaotic Lazagna]

New bolt on the left, and old bolt on the right. Just some surface rust on the threads and on the washer. This was after 90k miles.

Yes, I don't wear gloves when working on cars. LOL

[nookandcrannycar]

I bought two today for $4.15 each. Toyota One in Oakland.:thumbsup:

Wow. Is Toyota One in the vicinity of 27th and Broadway, or is there no longer a Toyota dealership in that area?

[nookandcrannycar]

WHAT!? :frown:

Which dealership told you $15 for two?....Marin?.....Fairfield?..... Concord?..... Vasser?..... Vallejo?..... Hanlees?.....I want to make sure I don't go there while visiting family :biggrin:.

[Kaotic Lazagna]

Which dealership told you $15 for two?....Marin?.....Fairfield?..... Concord?..... Vasser?..... Vallejo?..... Hanlees?.....I want to make sure I don't go there while visiting family :biggrin:.

Vallejo...where I bought the car new from the showroom...where, when I went back after modding my car some, was asked by some salesmen, "Is that a Scion?" :frown:


Also, where my family bought all of our cars from...our 1994 (or 1995) Corolla (gone), 1999 Camry, my sis' Prius and Prius C, my aunty's 2005 Camry, my sis' Rav4 (gone), and I'm sure other family members bought their Toyota's there too.

[UberSilver]

Wow. Is Toyota One in the vicinity of 27th and Broadway, or is there no longer a Toyota dealership in that area?

880 & Hegenberger. Behind Walmart.:smile:

[nookandcrannycar]

880 & Hegenberger. Behind Walmart.:smile:

:thumbsup:

[nookandcrannycar]

where, when I went back after modding my car some, was asked by some salesmen, "Is that a Scion?" :frown:


That is sad. Doesn't exactly inspire confidence in a product that the sales rep doesn't recognize his own product. Perhaps the management of the dealership doesn't care about that, thinking Toyota 'sells itself', or thinks most customers won't care about the level of product knowledge that members of the sales staff possess.

I hope, with all of the business your family has given that dealership, that you've gotten good deals. A friend of mine in SoCal bought 7 Nissans in about an 8 year period from the same dealership. By the 4th one on, including holdbacks, the dealership was only making about $50.00 on each car. The dealership was willing to take these deals that my friend demanded because he got all of the service done at the dealership. They always gave him a free loaner car and friends would buy from that dealership, saying my friend referred them.

[Kaotic Lazagna]

That is sad. Doesn't exactly inspire confidence in a product that the sales rep doesn't recognize his own product. Perhaps the management of the dealership doesn't care about that, thinking Toyota 'sells itself', or thinks most customers won't care about the level of product knowledge that members of the sales staff possess.

I hope, with all of the business your family has given that dealership, that you've gotten good deals. A friend of mine in SoCal bought 7 Nissans in about an 8 year period from the same dealership. By the 4th one on, including holdbacks, the dealership was only making about $50.00 on each car. The dealership was willing to take these deals that my friend demanded because he got all of the service done at the dealership. They always gave him a free loaner car and friends would buy from that dealership, saying my friend referred them.

We've gotten deals on almost all of our cars. We've always paid under MSRP for them. :biggrin:

If it weren't an aftermarket dealer option on my car (power windows/locks, that was crap), they would have made $0 on my car. lol. Actually, I don't think they get any money from the third party, do they?

[andulong]

Has anyabody had any luck getting this bolt replaced by dealership before it actually breaks? I just got the extended warranty packet and it does not seem that they will do a replacement unless it is broken. Seems like a much easier job if done as a preventative. I might just change them out myself so I don't have to worry about it breaking after the warranty period.

[nookandcrannycar]

We've gotten deals on almost all of our cars. We've always paid under MSRP for them. :biggrin:

If it weren't an aftermarket dealer option on my car (power windows/locks, that was crap), they would have made $0 on my car. lol. Actually, I don't think they get any money from the third party, do they?

Yeah, they would have marked it up from their cost, but it doesn't sound like it stands out to you as a large amount....so they probably didn't make that much. However, you didn't mention anything re a holdback, so Toyota may have paid the dealer an incentive that would be invisible to you. The dealer might make money from that, but it would come out of Toyota USA's pocket, not yours.

[Kaotic Lazagna]

Yeah, they would have marked it up from their cost, but it doesn't sound like it stands out to you as a large amount....so they probably didn't make that much. However, you didn't mention anything re a holdback, so Toyota may have paid the dealer an incentive that would be invisible to you. The dealer might make money from that, but it would come out of Toyota USA's pocket, not yours.

No clue. I got my car for $15,060, but $1,400 of that was that lousy Autohaus "power package."

[UberSilver]

What a complete waste of 20 minutes! I just did mine, and the old ones were perfect.:eek:

But I guess the piece of mind is worth something.:wink:

[Steveh27]

I received one yesterday. It covers Yaris' from late 2006 to early 2011. It is for abnormal noise coming from the front end caused by corrosion forming at the base of the Front Suspension Lower Arm No. 2 Bolt Head. If no noise yet, they are extending the warranty on this bolt head to 7 years, 100,000 mile from first use.

I think I will have this looked at during my next dealer oil change - soon.

Anyone else get this? Am I reporting this in the correct forum heading?

[marcus]

i emailed toyota last week and ask even gave them the tsb #.. they emailed back and said my 2007 yaris does not fall on that tsb or recall...

[UberSilver]

Update, as I said before, my stock bolts were fine. But all of the creaking is gone.
So I guess the bolts had become lose over time. I also retorqued all of the bolts, so that may have done it as well.

[NEexpat]

*Got my notice yesterday about extending the warranty on these bolts.

[pennyracer]

just got my letter the other day it reads 7 years from the vehicles date of first use or 100,000 miles whichever occurs first . mine is setting at 99,000 and need my main window switch taken care of also on a recall by toyota

[Hard Time]

Got a letter from Toyota today saying warrenty is extended for a "front suspension lower arm number 2 bolt" that may be corroded and break. Warrenty covers years "late 2006" to "early 2011". Any comments on this?

[Hard Time]

I just got it today. Funny coincidence. Two weeks ago I was turning onto an entrance ramp to a highway and heard something snap. As I got up to the speed limit I start noticing a sound that I hadn't heard before. Since I had a lot to do that day I put the problem out of my mind and forgot about it. So today I get the letter. Good timing, right? The sound I was hearing was not a knocking or rattling sound. It was more of a consistent sound. My car is a 2008 hatchback with about 48000 miles on it.

[Killchain]

Got a notice too, next oil change in about 800 mi so I'll have the dealer take a look. If they report no problems, I'm going ask for that in writing for future issues. Yet here in New Mexico other than some spot precipitation last couple of years. We are in a drought.:cry:

[jayeh]

Got a notice too, next oil change in about 800 mi so I'll have the dealer take a look. If they report no problems, I'm going ask for that in writing for future issues. Yet here in New Mexico other than some spot precipitation last couple of years. We are in a drought.:cry:

You can have as much of the 1 foot of snow that fell yesterday as you want. You just have to come pick it up.

Anyone in Canada get one of these?

[nookandcrannycar]

You can have as much of the 1 foot of snow that fell yesterday as you want. You just have to come pick it up

Several times, both here in Texas and in Florida, I've heard natives debating cold climate natives who are complaining about the heat. Each time the discussion has ended with the FL or TX native saying 'You don't have to shovel humidity'. Each time the cold weather native has had no answer, because there isn't one :biggrin:.

[why?]

i'll take heat every time. I worked outdoors in florida. 110 degrees in the direct sunlight. I'll take that every time over snow. And I sunburn. My nick name when i played football was 'the red lobster." that was the color of my skin after the first day of doubles, and it didn't change until well after the season ended.

[DevilGirl]

Ironically enough, I received my notice 2 days ago. Unfortunately for me, they sent it to me about 1000 miles too late. I had already turned over 100k on 2/22/13.

[marcus]

cost me $12.92 cnd for a pair of these bolts..

[Essnowyt]

This is the aftermath. I found the bolt head on the floor in my garage. This was in August. The repair was in July. I had to pay for the repair, before the warranty enhancement. I just finished writing Toyota for reimbursement.

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8103/8538723366_f0f4689c65_z.jpg

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8225/8538649194_c68b0edf7e_z.jpg

Ill post again once I have a response from Toyota.

Snowy.

[Amdkt7]

Several times, both here in Texas and in Florida, I've heard natives debating cold climate natives who are complaining about the heat. Each time the discussion has ended with the FL or TX native saying 'You don't have to shovel humidity'. Each time the cold weather native has had no answer, because there isn't one :biggrin:.

That's because they know when to stop blowing hot air! :laugh:

[nookandcrannycar]

That's because they know when to stop blowing hot air! :laugh:

LOL :thumbsup:

[Killchain]

Just got blessed by Toyota, I got a oil change completed. Yet I requested a inspection of the Lower Arm # 2 bolt. No corrosion, bolt was intact. They put that in writing on service receipt :w00t:. Like I said earlier here in New Mexico we are high and dry for moisture. Yet I will always ask for the inspection of that bolt.

[matthvm]

I had my 2008 Yaris in for an oil change and door switch recall and they discovered the bolts on mine had broke . 104,000kms on the odometer - the dealer told me it was going to be paid by Toyota

[Hershey]

We've had door switches replaced under warranty . The other rear door is sporadic with the dome light lighting . Had it in , but it worked while in the shop . Never fails . No recall here in the States . Not that I'm aware of .

[CTScott]

We've had door switches replaced under warranty . The other rear door is sporadic with the dome light lighting . Had it in , but it worked while in the shop . Never fails . No recall here in the States . Not that I'm aware of .

The power window switches are the recall item.

[Hershey]

Oh , looked like the door switch for the dome light . :redface:

[RG01]

Hey Guys, Yaris Gal owner here. I am having THE SAME issue with the clunking and control arm crap. I have a 2007 Yaris Sedan and this started happening to me as SOON as I drove it off the lot. I took it to the dealer and they said they could not hear anything! And now, wouldn't you guess it, over 100k on my odom and will the dealer cover this? Do you happen to have any suggestions for me on how I should proceed? Is there a DIY for the fix..one for replacing the control arm and maybe one for just replacing the bolt? I would so greatly appreciate this! Thanks and I hope it all works out well for you. I pray that this nightmare ends soon. :-(

[bronsin]

Several times, both here in Texas and in Florida, I've heard natives debating cold climate natives who are complaining about the heat. Each time the discussion has ended with the FL or TX native saying 'You don't have to shovel humidity'. Each time the cold weather native has had no answer, because there isn't one :biggrin:.

In NJ theres no earthquakes, tornadoes, tsunamies, landslides, floods, (theres plenty of water though) forest fires, and its not too hot in winter or cold in summer. :thumbsup:

I was going to say no hurricanes but after Sandy I guess I cant. :biggrin:

Wait a minute we had no problem near Philly. No problem at all. If you live near the ocean yeah you might have had a problem. :frown:

My brother and Mom live in Houston and Moms in a nursing home. Twice they had to skeedaddle.

She said she wanted to retire someplace where its warm!

[CTScott]

Hey Guys, Yaris Gal owner here. I am having THE SAME issue with the clunking and control arm crap. I have a 2007 Yaris Sedan and this started happening to me as SOON as I drove it off the lot. I took it to the dealer and they said they could not hear anything! And now, wouldn't you guess it, over 100k on my odom and will the dealer cover this? Do you happen to have any suggestions for me on how I should proceed? Is there a DIY for the fix..one for replacing the control arm and maybe one for just replacing the bolt? I would so greatly appreciate this! Thanks and I hope it all works out well for you. I pray that this nightmare ends soon. :-(

Check out this post for info on the location of the bolts: http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/showpost.php?p=678983&postcount=117

You will very easily be able to see if one is broken, as the head will be missing. If you do find that the bolt has sheared, go back to the dealer and point it out the them. DIYing repair of a sheared one would be a big job as you would have to drop the subframe to get at the broken bolt.

[bronsin]

Question.

I live in NJ where we seldom have snow, and when we do, the ammount of salt they put on the road is minimal. (I grew up in upstate NY...can you say "lake effect snow"?)

Because of my physical condition Im unable to r and r these bolts. Its very inconvient to take the car to the dealer, but if necessary I will.

Has anyone had problems with these bolts who lives in an area where road salt is not an issue?

Thanks!

[bronsin]

Ha just remembered I have an electric impact gun and a 19mm impact socket! :clap:

With the car on ramps can you get the impact gun and socket on these bolts?

:iono:

[RG01]

Yes, I live in SoCal and the bolts are a problem here, too! Let's start a petition and mail this to Toyota Corporate and tell them that we will go to the news corp. if we do not get a fix for their obvious crappy workmanship. I seriously was going to buy another yaris..then this. If they do not stand by their product, how can we?

[CTScott]

Ha just remembered I have an electric impact gun and a 19mm impact socket! :clap:

With the car on ramps can you get the impact gun and socket on these bolts?

:iono:

Yes

[Hershey]

" if we do not get a fix for their obvious crappy workmanship. I seriously was going to buy another yaris..then this. If they do not stand by their product, how can we? "

+1 . :clap:

[nookandcrannycar]

In NJ theres no earthquakes, tornadoes, tsunamies, landslides, floods, (theres plenty of water though) forest fires, and its not too hot in winter or cold in summer. :thumbsup:

I was going to say no hurricanes but after Sandy I guess I cant. :biggrin:

Wait a minute we had no problem near Philly. No problem at all. If you live near the ocean yeah you might have had a problem. :frown:

My brother and Mom live in Houston and Moms in a nursing home. Twice they had to skeedaddle.

She said she wanted to retire someplace where its warm!

I found leaving (with a hurricane of significant strength approaching) best. I closed on my house a few weeks before Ike hit in 2008. I left Texas on Thursday just to be safe. I later looked at a pic that someone posted from a point on U.S. 59 south of Lufkin on Friday that showed bumper to bumper traffic out there in the boonies re people trying to flee the hurricane ---- 24 hours earlier I had experienced no traffic at all at the spot where that pic was taken. I awakened in my hotel room in suburban Memphis, TN the morning after Ike and the wind (hundreds of miles away from the hurricane) had lifted up all of the outdoor furniture and carried it into the pool.

[bronsin]

I found leaving (with a hurricane of significant strength approaching) best. I closed on my house a few weeks before Ike hit in 2008. I left Texas on Thursday just to be safe. I later looked at a pic that someone posted from a point on U.S. 59 south of Lufkin on Friday that showed bumper to bumper traffic out there in the boonies re people trying to flee the hurricane ---- 24 hours earlier I had experienced no traffic at all at the spot where that pic was taken. I awakened in my hotel room in suburban Memphis, TN the morning after Ike and the wind (hundreds of miles away from the hurricane) had lifted up all of the outdoor furniture and carried it into the pool.

Yes I told bro "Put Mom on a plane to NJ" if any hurricanes threaten. He didnt do that but at least got Mom in a car a few days before everyone else scrammed. They went to a friends house in Dallas for the duration.

Its a good thing because had they left when everyone else did they would have gotten on the freeway and been stuck in traffic for hours if not days. Even idleing the engine the car woould have run out of gas and there is no way to get gas stuck in miles of traffic. No gas no AC = no Mom.

That was twice and it happened a few years ago. Now she is in a nurseing home and beyond the capability of my brother to do anything for her. If there another hurricane she will have to be evaced by the staff.

If that happens....

[YarisSedan]

So i havent gone through all the posts But i am going to be taking my control arms off to change the bushings soon. Is this something I would need to worry about being i live in california so rust really isnt a issue. Might as well replace it with the updated bolt while I have it off.

[Starrbri]

Some people have mentioned water running out after removing the bolts and the rust appears to be on the threads. It seems water is entering and not draining. Is there way to seal or prevent the water for entering? If the threads on the bolt are rusted, can we also assume the control arm threads are also corroded? Will it eventually need to be replaced? I just purchased a 2007 yaris and am planning on inspecting this weekend.

[CTScott]

Some people have mentioned water running out after removing the bolts and the rust appears to be on the threads. It seems water is entering and not draining. Is there way to seal or prevent the water for entering? If the threads on the bolt are rusted, can we also assume the control arm threads are also corroded? Will it eventually need to be replaced? I just purchased a 2007 yaris and am planning on inspecting this weekend.

If you look at the TSB, which is either posted in this thread or in the other one on this issue, Toyota does some seam sealing when performing the TSB. Theoretically that would reduce the amount of water that can enter the sleeve. Someone on this thread mentioned drilling a small hole in the sleeve near the bolt head, and that would probably help quite a bit as well.

The control arm is not threaded. The bolt passes through it up to the body. The rusting seems to be further down the bolt than the threaded area, so presumably the body threads are fine.

[nookandcrannycar]

Yes I told bro "Put Mom on a plane to NJ" if any hurricanes threaten. He didnt do that but at least got Mom in a car a few days before everyone else scrammed. They went to a friends house in Dallas for the duration.

Its a good thing because had they left when everyone else did they would have gotten on the freeway and been stuck in traffic for hours if not days. Even idleing the engine the car woould have run out of gas and there is no way to get gas stuck in miles of traffic. No gas no AC = no Mom.

That was twice and it happened a few years ago. Now she is in a nurseing home and beyond the capability of my brother to do anything for her. If there another hurricane she will have to be evaced by the staff.

If that happens....

I (at some point before my house was finished) saw the pictures that PREVIOUSLY were attached to the Wikipedia entry for Hurricane Rita (which occurred in 2005). One of the pictures showed Interstate 45 in Southern Montgomery County with the Contraflow configuration (All lanes on both sides set to head North (away from the Gulf)). In that picture I-45 was a parking lot and cars were pulled over with hoods up. I vowed that If I was around and a storm like that was headed for Houston, that I would get a jump on getting away (and I did). I don't know why that picture was taken off the Wikipedia entry. It was up there for a couple of years at least after the storm. Perhaps someone had copyrighted the picture, became aware that it was being used, and denied use to Wikipedia.

[websurferdude]

Can someone tell me if my VIN# JTDBT92387112623#

[Starrbri]

Can someone tell me if my VIN# JTDBT92387112623#

I do not believe it applies to yours as you VIN is subsequent to JTDBT923194055672

[Mtlmom]

Just found your forum and a great big thanks goes out to you! My bolt has broken off and I found your forum. Thank you so much for the TSB. Though my warranty is over, I do have a service call done at 53 000 km where I was complaining about the suspension making a noise and they verified and redid the brakes (in 2011)????? Wish me luck! Couldn't have done anything without you! :o)

[ittechnician]

Found this forum and its been helpful. Going to dealer Wednesday. My warranty may be over since its a 2007 Yaris close to 100,000 miles (but not over yet). The bolt on the driver side broke off.

Found a way of getting to the nut of that bolt. If you remove all the carpeting below the driver (and below the pedals) and remove the foam inserts, and remove the plastic tab (the one closer to the pedals).... you get access to that nut.

[UberSilver]

Good first post, Thanks!

[marcus]

Found this forum and its been helpful. Going to dealer Wednesday. My warranty may be over since its a 2007 Yaris close to 100,000 miles (but not over yet). The bolt on the driver side broke off.

Found a way of getting to the nut of that bolt. If you remove all the carpeting below the driver (and below the pedals) and remove the foam inserts, and remove the plastic tab (the one closer to the pedals).... you get access to that nut.

screenshot would have been nice..lol

[jason214]

I changed mine today even though the TSB is not applicable to my car.
2007 Hatchback 59000 km.

A table spoon of rust came out of each bolt hole. Both looked pretty much the same and I sandblasted the driver side bolt. Some surface corrosion and pitting corrosion. I sprayed rust inhibitor to the new bolts before I installed. The 22.5" long torque wrench was long enough so I didn't have to get under the car.

[bronsin]

Sounds like r and r ing these bolts should be part of the 30k service procedure.

[screenprintr]

That is some serious pitting.

[Mtlmom]

Here is the news. After 15 loooonnnggg days of my car being off the road, they finally fixed it. I contacted the dealer on April 22nd who told me they weren't even aware of the TSB :mad:. I sent it to them and after giving me the runaround all day they told me to contact Toyota Canada. I was told by TC that my file would be transferred to the review office and would take 7 to 10 business days. On the 10th day (May 6th) I sent them an email informing them that I was expecting an answer that afternoon. I received a general email telling me due to a high volume it may take longer. The following day I sent a demand letter and received a response an hour later, telling me that I needed to bring the car to the dealer for inspection. I did and they fixed it with no charge. It was a lllloooonnnngggg and hard process but I finally got what I wanted. I was told that the TSB3271 has been replaced by another TSB (which is probably to replace only the bolts rather than the whole control arm.) I will be filing a report with Transport Canada since this issue should be a recall and not only a bulletin. I would like to thank this forum, without you guys this would've never happened!!!!!

[jayeh]

So I'm going to take my car in to my mechanic and get them to swap out the bolts.

Should anything else be done at the same time? What about the body sealer application in the TSB? If the bolt hasn't broken and the control arms don't need to be removed is it still worth it to have them apply it?

[jayeh]

I had my bolts swapped out today. I'm glad it took it to the mechanic since one of them snapped off. They had to weld another bolt on to extract the old one.

Holy crap are they ever rusty!

[auxmike]

Holy crap! How many miles on the car then? Mine looked nowhere near that bad...

[jayeh]

Holy crap! How many miles on the car then? Mine looked nowhere near that bad...

41,000 miles (67,000km).

[auxmike]

That's very frightening. Imagine a person who knows nothing about this issue sees a nice lowmilage car on the used lot....RUN!

[jayeh]

That's very frightening. Imagine a person who knows nothing about this issue sees a nice lowmilage car on the used lot....RUN!

LIKE ME?

:thumbdown:

[Hershey]

:eek: , those are nasty . Toyota should make it mandatory to have the bolts replaced . There's 60,000+ miles on the sedan and we have plenty of road salt and moisture . Shouldn't leave it up to the mechanic at Toyota . The sedan makes creaking and thunking noises on occasion under certain road conditions . This has been going on nearly 3 years . Been in twice , denied both times . Said no noise at time of test drive and bolts look fine . Got the T.S.B. in mail as well . :thumbdown:

[jayeh]

:eek: , those are nasty . Toyota should make it mandatory to have the bolts replaced . There's 60,000+ miles on the sedan and we have plenty of road salt and moisture . Shouldn't leave it up to the mechanic at Toyota . The sedan makes creaking and thunking noises on occasion under certain road conditions . This has been going on nearly 3 years . Been in twice , denied both times . Said no noise at time of test drive and bolts look fine . Got the T.S.B. in mail as well . :thumbdown:

Well, I'm offering to drop off my bolts at Transport Canada so they can analyze them!

[craigq]

I had my bolts swapped out today. I'm glad it took it to the mechanic since one of them snapped off. They had to weld another bolt on to extract the old one.

Holy crap are they ever rusty!

Our sedan is making occasional creaking noise over bumps, I visually checked and the heads of the bolts are still intact but after seeing this picture I believe I'll pick up a set and check/replace them.