I have had this problem for a little while. When I would go over bumps I would get a rattling sound coming from the front end. Not necessarily big bumps. A lightly wash board road would do it bad. Tonight at a stop light I lightly moved the steering wheel from one side to the other. Maybe only an inch or so. Going in each direction I heard a knock or dull click. I got under the car and tried moving the tie rods. They seemed pretty tight. Any thoughts? I just want to be prepared when I take it to the dealer for repair. Thanks so much ...
If the car in question is the 2005, mileage info and vehicle history helps. I would first take it to a "reputable" front end shop for a free eval and have them show/duplicate any findings. Even good Toyota Dealerships usually charge a buck just to look at it...and you don't need a "hybrid expert" or "Toyota Only" mechanic at higher Dealer rates to fix common steering/suspension issues...if that is indeed the case.
Include brakes to comprehensive eval, but my advice remains as those items are still off warranty. Make them show you though.
FWIW, my 2011 had a rattle in the center, front while slowly diving over gravel or speed bumps. Sounded like a rock or something was bouncing on top the plastic underpan. So it just returned from the dealership with a new "45221-12330 Extension, Steering" and "45260-12710 Shaft Assbly, Steering" Not entirely sure what those are, but it no longer rattles. Initial bill was $723.26, but the extended warranty covered it, save the $100 deductible.
