Toyota Tacoma problems
The Toyota Tacoma is a pickup truck manufactured by Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota since 1995. The first-generation Tacoma (model years 1995 through 2004) was classified as a compact pickup. The second generation (model years 2005 through 2015) and third generation (in production since 2015) models are classified as mid-sized pickups. The Tacoma was Motor Trend's Truck of the Year for 2005.
As of 2015, the Tacoma was sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Bolivia, Bermuda, and the French overseas collectivity of New Caledonia. Most markets across the world receive the Toyota Hilux in lieu of the Tacoma.
The name "Tacoma" was derived from the Coast Salish peoples' name for Mount Rainier in the U.S. state of Washington.
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Toyota Tacoma model years
Common Toyota Tacoma problems
Based on complaints from Toyota Tacoma owners, common problems with the Toyota Tacoma cars include:
- Suspension System Faults:
- Complaints have been made about faulty suspension systems, which can affect the vehicle's stability and ride comfort. Issues with the suspension can lead to a bumpy ride and impact the overall driving experience.
- Air Flow Meter Malfunction:
- The air flow meter in Toyota Tacomas has been reported to malfunction, causing potential engine performance issues. A faulty air flow meter can lead to poor fuel efficiency and engine problems, affecting the vehicle's overall performance.
- Engine Starter Failure:
- Some owners have experienced problems with the engine starter, leading to difficulties starting the vehicle. A malfunctioning engine starter can result in the car not starting or intermittent starting issues, causing inconvenience to the driver.
- Ball Joint Wear:
- Accelerated wear of ball joints has been noted in many Toyota Tacomas. Ball joints are crucial components that connect the wheels to the steering system. Premature wear of ball joints can affect steering control and safety, requiring timely replacement to maintain optimal vehicle performance.
- Mass Air Flow Sensor Issues:
- Complaints have surfaced regarding the mass air flow sensor (MAF sensor) in Toyota Tacomas. A malfunctioning MAF sensor can lead to engine damage and trigger the check engine light. Common causes of MAF sensor failure include dirt buildup, water damage, or electrical issues, necessitating immediate attention to prevent further damage.
These problems reported by Toyota Tacoma owners highlight various issues that can impact the performance, safety, and reliability of the vehicles. Addressing these issues promptly through proper maintenance and repairs is essential to ensure the longevity and optimal functioning of Toyota Tacoma cars.
What is the most common problem with the Toyota Tacoma?
Problems many owners report is that the transmission in the Tacoma doesn't shift smoothly. And it tends to hunt for Gears. While this is more just an annoying characteristic.
What years to avoid when buying a Toyota Tacoma?
A: The years to avoid, specifically 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2017, have reported significant issues such as body and paint problems, engine mishaps, faulty interior accessories, drivetrain and engine defects, and problematic transmissions.
Is a Toyota Tacoma a reliable truck?
The Toyota Tacoma Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 7th out of 7 for midsize trucks. The average annual repair cost is $478 which means it has lower than average ownership costs.
What years did Toyota Tacoma have problems?
A: The Toyota Tacoma model years with the most issues include 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2017. While this may seem like a long list, Tacoma has been in almost constant production since 1995, so the overall performance has been relatively consistent.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Tacoma years
We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Tacoma cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Toyota Tacoma model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Tacoma model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Tacoma years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Toyota Tacoma car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Toyota Tacoma , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota Tacoma vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Tacoma model years
A total of 654 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Tacoma model years
There were a total of 86 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Tacoma model years
There were a total of 406 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Tacoma model years
There were a total of 21 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 7654 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Tacoma . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Tacoma vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Toyota Tacoma 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 3TMDZ5BN4PM
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: This vehicle has had judder issues since new when braking. It has been in the shop over 10 times for this issue with the last being this week. I conducted an internet search and see other new owners complaining about the same issue with no resolve. I was told I would be getting new rotors and when I picked my vehicle up from Toyota of Las Vegas on 10/24/24, however, they are only resurfaced, not new. They have been resurfaced 3 times, with the first being performed around 500 miles. With other owners having the same issue when the vehicle is still new, it has to be a defect in the original part. Even though my vehicle is under warranty, Toyota has yet to change this part out. It is a safey issue because it causes judder, sometimes severe while braking. Lastly, my vehicle was one of the first to have the welding debris recall issue. My issue started long before that recall. As you can see, my vehicle has lived in Toyota service centers since purchase and it's getting old. I hope you all can please help. Thank you.
Toyota Tacoma 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5TFSZ5AN1KX
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: The transmission cooling line in my 2019 Toyota Tacoma was never installed by an authorized repair shop following an accident. This critical component failure led to the transmission failing just 1.5 hours after I retrieved the vehicle from the shop. My safety was compromised, as the failure occurred while driving at highway speeds, without any warning lights or messages indicating an issue. The failure has been confirmed by the dealership (MotorWorld Toyota) currently inspecting my vehicle. The shop responsible for the initial repairs has taken liability for missing the installation of the transmission cooling line. My insurance company (GEICO) has been involved but is delaying total loss consideration. No warning lamps or messages appeared before or after the transmission failure, which is highly suspicious. This negligence has caused severe damage to a vital component of my vehicle, and I question the overall integrity of the repairs.
Toyota Tacoma 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5TETX22N59Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I just learned from my Mechanic that the Frame Corrosion is bad. The frame was inspected by Vanderstyne (now West Herr) Toyota on 06/20/2020. It passed the Inspection at that time, so they did not do anything. But within 4.5 years and only a little more than 6,000 miles driving since then - this corrosion shows up. I think the Toyota Specs for the Corrosion Inspection were not sufficient. Toyota should be held accountable for their negligence. I only have 72,900 miles on this Tacoma. I would have liked to keep it for another 5 years or so, but now I cannot and Toyota washed their hand when I contacted them.
Toyota Tacoma 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5TEHN72N93Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The frame rusted through and there are holes in the frame The frame broke while my wife was driving home from work. Had to get it towed to the house No No No, no symptoms
Toyota Tacoma 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: 3TMCZ5AN9GM
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Coolant leaking
Toyota Tacoma 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 3TMLU4EN7FM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have a 2015 Tacoma that has the super white (040) paint issues of flacking and peeling on around my windows, doors and engine bay as well has all painted metal surfaces seem to have lost its clear coat finish and now looks flat matte. These issues are described in both Toyota Customer Support Programs 23TE08 (2016-2022 Tacomas) and ZKG (Wide range of vehicles not including Tacomas); however, my truck is not included in either CSP. I would like to request that my vehicle year be included in the currently running Toyota Customer Programs for the Super White paint chip and pealing issues.
Toyota Tacoma 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 5TEWN72N82Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Found hole in frame (chassis)
Toyota Tacoma 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 5TFDZ5BN7MX
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: When stopping vehicle (for instance, at a stop light), vehicle would stop normally when pressing the brakes, but after a few seconds, the vehicle would start forward again. The brake pedal would give way and press down further, stopping briefly before starting forward again - so I had to use the emergency brake or else vehicle would move into oncoming traffic. I consulted a mechanic, and it was diagnosed as a bad brake master cylinder. This vehicle has only 51,000 miles on it, being a 2021 model. The brake pads themselves were checked and they are fine. I replaced the master cylinder and it fixed the issue, but I wouldn't expect this unsafe condition to already be happening to this vehicle, especially this early in life. Toyota must have defective brake master cylinders.
Toyota Tacoma 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 3TMAZ5CN7KM
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Two of my three 2019 Tacoma’s drivers side door hinges broke clean off the door frame.
Toyota Tacoma 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 5TELU42N88Z
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: Tried to avoid a deer and the frame of truck felt unstable and felt like it was folding. I looked at the frame there are rust holes through out the whole frame. How could they design this and not back it up.
Toyota Tacoma 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 3TMCZ5AN8HM
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Seat heater not working. i looked online to see what the issue could be and learned there was issues with the seat heater amp burning up from being defective. I pulled the amp and noticed the amp was burnt up and so was the wiring. This is a fire hazard.
Toyota Tacoma 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 3TMAZ5CN7GM
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The paint on my 2016 Toyota Tacoma is failing after a few years of owning the truck, it has been well maintained and washed but the problem keeps getting worse. I have searched online and it seems to be an issue with white and magnetic grey colored Toyota cars but no recall on magnetic grey paint.
Toyota Tacoma 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: See Attached Letter
Toyota Tacoma 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-05
- VIN: 5TFTU4GN3EX
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I have had my secondary air pump replaced twice already. Now six months later am having the same codes and the truck is back at the dealership. Throws code p2443 valve stuck closed.....on a 6 month old part. This w=has been an issue with this and other toyota models since 2012. Why is there no recall on these?
Toyota Tacoma 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 5TFCZ5ANXKX
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: the differential skid plate was manufactured in a way that one of the brackets make contact with the fuel tank of the truck. It rubs and compromises the integrity of the tank. Possibly leading to a puncture and leak. I brought it to the attention of the manufacturer, and they have stated that they received several complaints from customers and redesigned the skid plate to prevent this. However they refused to replace mine and others, they also have taken NO steps to notify owners of this safety hazard.
Latest 5 recalls Toyota Tacoma
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 173 recalls for different components of the Toyota Tacoma.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Toyota Tacoma 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-27
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturer (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Tacoma vehicles. The axle shaft sub-assembly may separate from the axle housing due to debris causing improperly secured fasteners.
- Consequence: Axle shaft separation can cause a loss of vehicle stability and brake performance, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle assembly, tighten the axle retaining nuts as necessary, and repair or replace any damaged components, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 17, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB05 and 24TA05.
- Model: Toyota Tacoma 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-27
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturer (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Tacoma vehicles. The axle shaft sub-assembly may separate from the axle housing due to debris causing improperly secured fasteners.
- Consequence: Axle shaft separation can cause a loss of vehicle stability and brake performance, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear axle assembly, tighten the axle retaining nuts as necessary, and repair or replace any damaged components, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 17, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB05 and 24TA05.
- Model: Toyota Tacoma 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-07-12
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: STEERING:COLUMN
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, 2023 Lexus RX350, RX350 Hybrid, RX500 Hybrid, 2023-2024 Lexus NX250, NX350, and NX350 Hybrid vehicles. An electrical connection inside the steering column's spiral cable assembly may be insufficiently welded, causing the connection to separate and deactivate the driver's air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
- Consequence: A deactivated driver's air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the spiral cable assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TA08. Lexus' number for this recall is 23LA02.
- Model: Toyota Tacoma 2023
- Report Received Date: 2022-07-21
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Tacoma vehicles. One or more of the individual welds in the upper child seat anchors may be insufficient. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage System."
- Consequence: An insufficient weld may prevent the child seat from being anchored properly, allowing the seat to move during a sudden stop or crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the upper child seat anchors and reweld the child seat anchors, as necessary. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 02, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 22TB09/ 22TA09.
- Model: Toyota Tacoma 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-07-21
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Tacoma vehicles. One or more of the individual welds in the upper child seat anchors may be insufficient. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage System."
- Consequence: An insufficient weld may prevent the child seat from being anchored properly, allowing the seat to move during a sudden stop or crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the upper child seat anchors and reweld the child seat anchors, as necessary. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 02, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 22TB09/ 22TA09.
Latest negative Toyota Tacoma car reviews
Latest positive Toyota Tacoma car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2022
Second time leasing and the upgrades that Toyota has made in 3 years are incredible!
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Vehicle year: 2001
I hope you're doing well! I noticed that you bought your Tacoma used, but with a transferable warranty. That's great news! It's even better that you haven't had to use the warranty yet. Your fully loaded Tacoma with the off-road and tow packages sounds amazing! I'm impressed that you added a dual exhaust, cold air intake, and throttle body spacer. Your truck must have more power and better fuel mileage now. Although you don't do much off-roading, I'm glad to hear that you were impressed the times you did. I remember one time when I was looking at a piece of remote property in the winter on a small single car dirt road with nowhere to turn around. I literally slid down a hill hoping there was another way out, but there wasn't. Thankfully, the 4x4 shot me back up the hill with ease. I'm so happy to hear that you love your truck and that you haven't had a single problem with it in 5 years!
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Vehicle year: 2011
I recently purchased a Tacoma and I am thoroughly enjoying it. While it is still early to comment on its reliability, I find myself looking for reasons to take it out for a spin. My main requirements for a vehicle were reliability and versatility, without any unnecessary features or a hefty price tag. This compact pickup truck is perfect for my short commute to work and occasional weekend trips to Ikea.
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Vehicle year: 2012
I really like this truck, it's so practical! It tows my boat, hauls 2 motorcycles, and carries 4 passengers comfortably at the same time. It's the best in quality and value. I love my toy taco... any time I pass a job site, everyone turns and says 'that's a nice truck'. The only thing I wish is that it got 35mpg, but maybe they will put a turbo diesel in it eventually. It currently gets 24mpg when not towing. Overall, I highly recommend this truck if you're looking for something practical.
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Vehicle year: 2022
I really like this truck, it's very similar to the 2019 model but with some great additional features such as a keyfob, intermittent wipers, backseats and a back sliding window. Although it no longer has a CD player, the audio system is much better.
Are you having problems with your Toyota Tacoma?
Parker Aufderhar 2025-03-29
Vehicle year: 2019
I wouldn't recommend buying one of these 3rd Gen tacos. The truck surges at a stoplight if the air conditioning is on, which can be a bit disconcerting. The brakes are also quite poor, making it feel like you're trying to stop a very large moving truck full of furniture. Additionally, the hood sheet medal vibrates and the four-wheel drive can be a bit unpredictable. It's also worth noting that the truck has braked on its own whilst driving on the interstate. Finally, the truck doesn't have much power unless you floor it, and even then it doesn't really take off until 4th gear. Overall, I don't think these are very safe vehicles to drive. For reference, I own a 2019 TRD OFF-ROAD double cab v6 4x4.
Kian Bosco 2025-03-28
Vehicle year: 2010
I recently leased a Toyota, but unfortunately had some trouble with the dealer. It took four months to receive my plates and there were some issues with the paperwork that needed to be redone, which I was not notified about. Overall, it has not been a great experience. Additionally, I have found that the truck's 4-cylinder engine is not very powerful, with 30 less horsepower than my wife's RAV4, which has a smaller 4-cylinder engine. The 4-speed transmission is also not great, shifting into overdrive too soon and causing a vibration due to the low RPMs. It seems like whoever designed this engine and transmission did not test it thoroughly. I have also experienced a whine from the transmission, but have not yet had the chance to take it to a dealer.
Myles Dickinson 2025-03-27
Vehicle year: 1997
If you're looking to purchase a pre-owned truck from a dealership, this one might be a great fit for you! It has only 9K miles on it and comes equipped with 5 SP, air conditioning, and a bedliner. It provides adequate power for basic trucking needs, but keep in mind that it's not ideal for snowy conditions. The cabin may be a bit uncomfortable for those over 6 feet tall, but overall it's a great option for local commutes and picking up furniture. Just be aware that it's not suitable for off-road adventures or family trips. If you're looking for a reliable truck that won't require expensive repairs, this could be the one for you!
Stephan Bednar 2025-03-26
Vehicle year: 2019
The 2019 SR5 Access Cab has been experiencing a low speed shudder/vibration when driving below 30 mph. Despite returning to the dealership twice, the issue was not resolved during the first visit and only the rear brake drums were replaced for being out of round during the second visit. As a previous owner of a Camry and Corolla, I am disappointed with this purchase and the lack of attention given to this issue by Toyota. It is disheartening to see that this problem has been reported in several forums and comments, yet no action has been taken to address it. It is difficult to recommend this vehicle to anyone given the current situation.
Fritz Price 2025-03-23
Vehicle year: 2019
The transmission's constant shifting up and down causes it to bog down frequently, resulting in a less than desirable driving experience. However, I am confident in my assessment of the situation and believe that with some adjustments, the driving experience can be improved.