Manual transmission and power surging

My 2007 Toyota Tacoma truck has only 25,000 miles on it, and has a manual transmission which I prefer because of the control it gives me. Yet, it was a scary surprise when the truck started surging forward at high gears uncontrollably. The revs stay high between shifts as well. I am sure that this truck will kill me if I do not fix this. I don’t want this to happen more! Is there any way to fix this problem for good?
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hello! Thank you for writing in with this question. This concern is likely related to the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS). If the TPS is faulty, it sends an incorrect signal to the vehicle’s computer system, which can result in surging or sustained engine RPM. There are a number of tests that can be performed on a TPS to verify correct operation. A local mechanic (like those with YourMechanic) should be able to diagnose TPS sensor by back-probing the sensor and checking for an erratic signal.

How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?

Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :

Surges and stalls can mean you have a serious transmission problem. Normally your car should move as soon as you put it into gear. Not only are these symptoms of a transmission problem but surging and stalling can be extremely hazardous while driving.
Toyota confirmed today that the 2024 Tacoma will be offered with a six-speed manual transmission. No other details were provided, but we expect it to be a modified version of the six-speed stick shift in the outgoing model.
Yes. Toyota dropped another teaser for the 2024 Tacoma. It shows a three-pedal alignment, confirming that the Tacoma will keep its manual transmission option in the next generation.
The latest Tacoma, Ranger, and Colorado can all carry much more than a half-ton. But because of these trucks` GVW below 6,500 pounds, they are all still considered “midsize” trucks and not “half-tons.”
Engine Surging Can Be an Early Warning Sign of Ignition Problems. Engine surging is usually a warning sign that your car or truck is having combustion problems. Since a vehicle`s ignition wires and spark plugs play a major role in proper engine performance, it is likely time to check your engine`s electrical components …
It can be caused by various factors, fuel injection problems, bad spark plugs, a malfunctioning air sensor, might be a dirty air filter, and troubles with the engine control. Other issues of the fuel ignition system can also trigger surging when stopped.
The Toyota Tacoma transmission problems, or more commonly known as the “Tacoma Lurch” has not gone unnoticed. According to Motorbiscuit “The Toyota Tacoma has one of the worst automatic transmissions out of any Toyota model.”
A manual transmission can last up to 120,000 miles. Aggressive driving and inattentive fluid changes can negatively impact its longevity.
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma comes standard with a 159-hp inline-four engine. It also has a six-speed automatic transmission. A 278-hp V-6 engine is available. It either has an automatic or six-speed manual transmission.
The 2023 Ford Ranger hits that almost on the nose at 210.8 inches. The short-wheelbase 2023 Toyota Tacoma is 1.5 inches longer than the Ranger, while the long-wheelbase Tacoma is 225 inches long overall.
How to Read Load Capacity. Lucky for Tacoma owners, Toyota manufactures these vehicles to perform on a P-metric tire, also known as a “Standard Load” tire, with a 109 load index or greater.
On paper, the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger are quarter-ton, light-duty trucks. Available in single- and crew-cab configurations and with your choice of short or long boxes, these platforms can adapt to a variety of lifestyles and uses.
A wide variety of issues can prompt an engine surge. The problem may involve an annoying change (up/down) of engine speed while cruising at a steady pace, a low drop (or even cut-out) at idle or when approaching a stop, a wild high engine speed of several thousand rpm followed by a drop to near zero, etc.
What Does It Feel Like When Your Transmission Slips? You will know your vehicle has experienced a transmission slip when you can hear the engine revving during a gear change. For a moment, it may feel as though you are driving over ice. At first, it may seem minor and easy to shrug off.
Surging transmission

If you notice that your car happens to surge forward before falling back during normal driving, it may be due to low transmission fluid.

It`s possible that your fuel pump is malfunctioning if your car surges forward unexpectedly. It could be that the fuel pump is releasing too much gasoline or diesel fuel into the engine. The engine will pick up speed as it burns the excess fuel.
If an engine is not getting enough fuel (this is called “running lean”), due to fuel pressure (regulated by the fuel pump and regulator), restricted fuel injectors, a vacuum leak or really anything that throws off the fuel mixture going in to the engine, this can cause the surge.

Relevant Questions and Answers :

the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue

There is automatic transmission fluid in a manual transmission. Is it okay to leave or do I need manual transmission fluid?
ANSWER : This would depend on what the manufacturer recommends. Many manual transmissions do take automatic transmission fluid. If your transmission has ATF in it, it is very likely that it is supposed to have that in there. If not, it is likely that the transmission would not function properly with the wrong fluid. Many manual transmissions will also take engine oil as a lubricant. The best way to know for sure is to check your owner’s manual or call your local General Motors dealership to inquire.

VW TDI GolfSportswagen 2015 buying a Manual vs DSG transmissions. I love driving manual. What are the pros/cons?
ANSWER : Hi there. In general, Volkswagen transmissions (both automatic and manual) are typically built very well and tend to hold up for extended periods. The key with any transmission is to ensure proper service and maintenance is completed. In regards to the costs of operation, over time the automatic transmission tends to be less expensive. Modern manual transmissions also require routine service, but the most costly repair will be the clutch system; especially if you drive frequently in traffic or city, stop-and-go driving. In the end, both transmissions on these vehicles will have about equal costs of maintenance and repairs – with a slight edge going to the manual for cost-effectiveness. One thing to consider also is fuel economy. The manual transmission tends to get worse fuel economy across the board due to driving style.

I am replacing my power brakes booster and need some advice about removing the power unit from the bell crank.
ANSWER : Hi there. When removing the brake booster from a vehicle, you will need to remove the master cylinder and cap off the hydraulic lines. Then go in the cab and remove the pin from the bell crank and unbolt the 4 bolts that hold the booster on. Then remove the booster. Do the opposite to install the booster. If the bell crank pin had a cotter pin to secure it, make sure that you use a new cotter pin. If you need further assistance with removing and installing a brake booster in your vehicle, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

Manual transmission and power surging
ANSWER : Hello! Thank you for writing in with this question. This concern is likely related to the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS). If the TPS is faulty, it sends an incorrect signal to the vehicle’s computer system, which can result in surging or sustained engine RPM. There are a number of tests that can be performed on a TPS to verify correct operation. A local mechanic (like those with YourMechanic) should be able to diagnose TPS sensor by back-probing the sensor and checking for an erratic signal.

Gear shift slips over to Manual Transmission without touching. I have to hold it to keep it in Automatic.
ANSWER : Hi there. All automatic transmissions require transmission fluid for them to work. In your engine compartment by the right side next to the radiator area, there is a box in front of the air filter housing. Remove that box and below the air filter housing you will see the dipstick to the transmission. For the transmission not staying in automatic mode and conveying over to the manual mode only, the shifter has either broke inside or the circuitry has a short in the shifter housing. I recommend replacing the shifter assembly with a new one. If you need further assistance with your shifter not selecting automatic mode, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

2013 Ford Focus Transmission Issue. Is it worth keeping the car?
ANSWER : Hi There,
This is a known issue in this generation Ford Focus and some Fiestas with the "Power Shift" transmission and there have been numerous recalls and lawsuits. Although, it is would be difficult to determine how much longer your transmission will last given the fact that you have many new parts, I would not recommend junking the car as it may still provide some valuable life left for you. I would recommend taking it to the dealer to see if these parts may be covered under the recall.

2003 jeep liberty stuck in reverse, shifter is stuck…but crawling under and trying to manually shift from transmission stuck
ANSWER : Hi there. Based on what you have written above, it is highly probable that the inner linkage has come loose or there is an obstruction within the inner gear set that is causing your problem. Unfortunately, this typically requires dropping the transmission and repair or inspection from the inside. This is not a service our mobile mechanics are equipped to offer, so your best bet is to contact a local transmission specialist for assistance.

How much to replace an automatic transmission to a manual
ANSWER : The PCM and TCM that you presently have are incompatible with a manual transmission. The PCM hardware and some engine controls, particularly relating to idle speed and electronic "dashpot", would be different too. The only way you could reliably do such a swap is if you changed out the vehicle’s electrical system, include the wiring harness to the transmission and engine, and even that wouldn’t be a guarantee of success if your vehicle also has a body control module (i.e., that would have to be changed out as well). Your only practical option is to have the existing transmission re-built or install a re-manufactured one. Even going that route, you have to be extremely careful and vigilant that you get an EXACT replacement, in every respect, because even minor year to year differences in electronic controls could render the unit unusable. In some locales, certified Mechanics from YourMechanic will perform engine and transmission replacements, so please inquire if you simply want to repair what you have. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.