Thank You in advance for any information.


Trying to correctly identify to determine if it needs replacement.

I have replaced worn parts on my wife's 2015 RX350. We bought it used at 65,000mi and it just hit 105,000mi. I replaced the 4 corners suspension and brakes. When I do any major changes to a vehicle, I take it to the dealer for an oil change for the inspection, to get a double check on everything. They as usual suggest $1,000+ of things that should be done. They mentioned a torn cv axle boot and grease spraying everywhere. I could not find damage to the boot, but noticed a part I don't recognize. My thought is its possibly a bump stop for overloading. It's on the end of a extension of the rear differential. its just behind the support structure for the diff and rear suspension. Its has no load and wiggles freely only held in place by some rubber bushings that seem flexible not dry or damaged.

Jeff - 2016 4runner SR5 base 4wd. 65,000mi.

 

Welcome to CL and enjoy your new ride!

It is a vibration damper. You probably would never notice any difference if it was removed. They always look all rusty.

You have all wheel drive, did you check both front and rear CV boots? If so you have just encountered another instance of a dealer lying about a needed repair to make a commission.

Also, it is time to change your transmission fluid if it has not been done. Same with the transfer case fluid and rear differential fluid. And coolant.

You can join the Lexus Drivers Site (run by Lexus/Toyota) for free, and enter your VIN to see the vehicle service history at Lexus dealers. https://drivers.lexus.com/lexusdrivers

 

I went through all the CV boots, front/rear/front/back. I always double check their recommendations and learn as much as possible before making a decision on having they or myself performing the repair. I had them do fluids for the transmission and transfer case as I am not comfortable enough for those jobs yet. Over my history with transmissions, and having a couple that failed after a flush. Granted these were high mileage used cars that I didn't know their complete service history. With winter approaching here in Wisconsin, I always check out the coolant. Again, thank you so much. From my experience and knowledge of mechanicals, that vibration dampener would only come into play on a rough trail. For my wife, it is a luxury road car, so it should never be an issue.