Rotational Squeal/Whine in 2WD That Disappears in 4HI -2026 4Runner TRD Sport Premium –

[4runnerbws]

I’m looking for some help diagnosing a rotational noise on my 2026 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport Premium (2.4L turbo, part-time 4WD).


Symptoms

• High-pitched squeal/whine that is directly related to vehicle wheel speed, not engine RPM.
• Becomes noticeable around 25 mph and above.
• Noise does not change with engine speed, transmission gear, or when shifting into Neutral while coasting.
• The noise is not affected by turning the steering wheel left or right.
• The sound seems to be coming from the front driver’s side wheel/front differential area.
• It is present only in 2HI.
• As soon as I shift into 4HI, the noise completely disappears, even at the same road speed.
• I have not noticed any vibration through the steering wheel or seat.

Other observations

• In 2HI, with the vehicle parked and the transmission in Park, I can rotate the front driveshaft by hand.
• In 4HI, the front driveshaft locks as expected and can no longer be rotated.
• The vehicle is stock with stock-size tires and even tire wear.

Looking for any insight into this issue. My thoughts have been a possible needle bearing failure or axel seal contamination.

To me doesn’t make sense that it would be the CV or wheel bearing given the resolution in 4HI.

I wonder if it could be something else internally within the front differential or possibly the drive shaft going to the differential.

Plan on taking it in to get checked out and have an appointment.

Milage is fairly low around 8,000 miles.

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[4runnerbws]

Short video clip of noise

 

[Tarekith]

My dealer said it's the needle bearing in the front differential:

https://www.4runner6g.com/forum/threads/noise-above-30mph.6880/page-2#post-153128

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