New tapping/clanking noise when I decelerate (release gas pedal) day after getting $1,000 worth of work done

1997 TOYOTA COROLLA
244,400 MILES • 1.6L • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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SMCD1997
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Car is making a tapping/light clunking noise that didn't make before I just got $1,000 work done. Happens when I take foot off gas it's a "light tapping / clunking" like a noise, sound and volume, between tapping a tin can and a cow bell noise. It occurs intermittently when I decelerate / release gas pedal.
Per the service description this is what they did: Front drive axles outer CV boots torn. Installed 2 reconditioned front drive axles / all other parts are new. Found PC Valve, coolant hose to water pump is bad. Replaced water hose and PCV valve. Also replaced coolant. Replace timing belt and water pump. Found over engine valve leaking, installed new valve cover gasket. found power steering pressure hose leaking. installed new pressure hose. All parts new except front drive axles.
Jan 26, 2015 at 1:58 PM
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CARADIODOC
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That was all done for $1000.00? Sounds to me like you got a really good deal.

It has become customary to install rebuilt half shafts because the cost has come down so much that it's less expensive than replacing the rubber boots. This is especially true on Toyotas because they are one of the few manufacturers where you have to take the inner joint off to slide the outer boot all the way over to the outer joint. That means taking twice as much stuff apart and putting it back together.

A lot has to be disassembled to get the half shafts out, so it's typical that things get reinstalled in different positions. A part that was loose before could now be sitting a little closer to something it can bump against, or a part that had tension on it could now be centered and relaxed once it was loosened up and allowed to shift to where it wants to be. Without that tension, it might be free to rattle. And of course, something could have been left loose.

My guess is the cause of the noise is not due to a safety-related item like a ball joint or tie rod end because it appears they looked the car over pretty well. Regardless, take the car back to the same shop right away. They deserve the chance to check their work and correct any mistakes. If you wait a few days, they could legitimately say this is a new problem and it's not related to what they did. Even if they can't get you in for a few days, at least you want it known the noise was there as soon as you picked up the car.

If the noise is related to something they didn't work on previously, they can legitimately ask you to pay for the repairs, but a lot of shops will discount the labor charge in an attempt to keep good customers happy and coming back. You should not have to pay if the cause was directly related to what they worked on and charged you for already.
Jan 26, 2015 at 2:27 PM
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SMCD1997
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Thank you for your prompt and thorough reply. I'll find out tomorrow what the news is and I'll reply again. Thanks so much. This is a super service! I'll spread the good word.
Jan 26, 2015 at 6:08 PM
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