Rusted out rear differential and axle.

- Middlesex, NY, USA

My 2002 Toyota Tundra truck is not drivable at this time. The truck was brought to Toyota dealership after a local mechanic found fluid leaking from rear differential due to rust/rot. During the dealers inspection, they also noted a gas smell and suspect that the gas tank or gas lines are leaking also. The dealer did a frame inspection and while the whole frame is excessively rusted, the frame passed the recall test because it had not been perforated yet. The dealer did not want to even remove the differential plug because the whole unit was so rusty. I have been under the truck and personally seen the excessive rust on the frame, fuel system, and suspension components. Amazingly, the body panels have little or no rust and in very good condition. During previous dealer visits we were verbally told that the rust was normal. The repair estimate for gas tank/lines and new differential housing, etc. Was approximately $7000. I purchased this truck new and have always done all required maintenance and was planning on having the truck for a long time. It currently has 89,101 miles on it. The excessive rust is not normal and I feel that the frame and some associated components are defective. I feel that due to the nature of these defects that the vehicle is unsafe to drive and I'm guessing that it would be difficult to sell and if I did, it would be at a greatly reduced value. I purchased a Toyota truck because of their reputation for building long lasting, high quality vehicles. I feel that in light of these defects that they misrepresented their product.

- Little Compton, RI, USA

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I got under my 2002 Toyota Tundra trd SR5 extra cab to assess the rust this past weekend. I was dumbfounded! control arms, front wishbone, suspension brackets, and rear differential look like a shipwreck that's been under the sea for 100 years. The rear differential housing has rusted completely through and is leaking through the side of the housing! the spare tire holder is so rusted the wheel is about to fall off. All shields and safety guards have fallen off or will soon. I bought the truck new in Nov of '01. It now has 84,000 miles. I've had all recommended services performed at the dealer.they never mentioned the rust although they do a "safety inspection" at every service. I've always washed off the salt in the winter. The body panels show no rust at all and the outside of the truck looks like new. I have taken excellent care of this vehicle. I had a Chevy truck kept under the same conditions that after 15 years and 250,000 miles looked nothing like this. I cannot drive this truck in this condition.

- Warner, NH, USA