Toyota Tacoma problems

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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.

photo of Toyota Tacoma car production

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Toyota Tacoma model years

toyota tacoma 2023 photo
Tacoma 2023
Toyota

25

3

21

4.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2022 photo
Tacoma 2022
Toyota

33

3

23

4.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2021 photo
Tacoma 2021
Toyota

53

0

29

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2020 photo
Tacoma 2020
Toyota

59

1

21

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2019 photo
Tacoma 2019
Toyota

186

4

24

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2018 photo
Tacoma 2018
Toyota

168

3

25

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2017 photo
Tacoma 2017
Toyota

205

5

27

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2016 photo
Tacoma 2016
Toyota

303

4

28

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2015 photo
Tacoma 2015
Toyota

90

4

20

4.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2014 photo
Tacoma 2014
Toyota

86

4

24

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2013 photo
Tacoma 2013
Toyota

113

6

24

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2012 photo
Tacoma 2012
Toyota

286

7

17

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2011 photo
Tacoma 2011
Toyota

173

9

19

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2010 photo
Tacoma 2010
Toyota

0

13

23

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2009 photo
Tacoma 2009
Toyota

507

13

23

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2008 photo
Tacoma 2008
Toyota

427

11

32

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2007 photo
Tacoma 2007
Toyota

530

10

23

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2006 photo
Tacoma 2006
Toyota

773

11

27

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2005 photo
Tacoma 2005
Toyota

704

10

24

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2004 photo
Tacoma 2004
Toyota

406

5

26

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2003 photo
Tacoma 2003
Toyota

363

5

26

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2002 photo
Tacoma 2002
Toyota

359

5

23

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2001 photo
Tacoma 2001
Toyota

413

6

22

3.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 2000 photo
Tacoma 2000
Toyota

219

5

24

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 1999 photo
Tacoma 1999
Toyota

256

5

29

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 1998 photo
Tacoma 1998
Toyota

322

5

20

4.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 1997 photo
Tacoma 1997
Toyota

134

4

32

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 1996 photo
Tacoma 1996
Toyota

278

6

24

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
toyota tacoma 1995 photo
Tacoma 1995
Toyota

183

6

19

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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.

Toyota Tacoma

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

  1. Kyler Ullrich 2025-01-07

    Vehicle year: 2001

    I purchased this vehicle during Thanksgiving weekend in 2000. At that time, I found the reviews on CR and Edmunds, especially Edmunds, to be very accurate for the base model, 5spd, regular cab. I did experience a cold start problem about a month after purchase, which happened again about a year later. However, I learned to hold the gas pedal down all the way while turning the engine over, and it starts about 10+ seconds later. It sputters and smells for maybe 20 seconds, with a small amount of light-colored smoke just after starting. Then it runs like nothing happened. Other than these two incidents, the vehicle is mechanically new, with very little cosmetic damage.

  2. Antwon Schinner 2025-01-03

    Vehicle year: 2013

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I noticed that my truck was starting to lack power and had a rough idle at 133,000 miles. I decided to take action and cleaned the MAP sensor, changed the spark plugs, and ran two bottles of Chevron Techron, one per tank full. I'm happy to report that the engine is much smoother and appears to perform more like when it was new. I also changed my center support bearing for the drive shaft with an aftermarket part, and the drive line vibration disappeared. It's a shame that Toyota didn't address this issue when it first started at 120k miles ago, while still under warranty. Recently, I installed my second set of tires and the wheel vibration was unbearable, just like the day after I bought the truck. I took the truck to the same place as before and paid $175 to have all four wheels 'road force balanced'. No one else seems to be able to get it right. Unfortunately, the exhaust chirp/chatter is now ridiculously loud, but no one can seem to find the exact source. All I know is that this noise disappeared after Toyota recalled the catalytic converter. It was quiet for about 2 years, then the noise came back. I asked Toyota, and they said it would be customer pay this time. Despite these issues, I'm nearing the point where I may be finally satisfied with this truck, so long as nothing serious goes wrong. I just wish it had actually felt like a quality vehicle within the first few years of ownership rather than 100k+ miles after. Still, I doubt I'll seriously consider another one. I hear that Toyota, much like most truck manufacturers, is considering moving production to Mexico. No thanks, I've been down that road before with VW. That's probably another disaster waiting to happen. At 143000 miles, I haven't been putting much time into the truck due to the pandemic. Not much has changed from the last update, although I recently replaced the front brakes because of squealing. It's another problem I've had since new. This time, I tried new rotors and a different pad, but once the brakes bed in, the noise returned.I came across a TSB online that suggests some unusual places to add brake grease, so I'm going to give that a try. While my truck has had its fair share of issues, it's still running, which is a relief. The A/C compressor started making a funny noise, and the steering wheel has a bad shimmy and rattles over bumps in the road, but I'm grateful that nothing has officially broken yet. I don't think I've ever been so disappointed in a reliable vehicle before, but I'm trying to stay positive. Unfortunately, a new issue has developed, and it makes it difficult to drive with the windows down on nice days. Either I'm listening to the chirping cat converter or the new noise, which is loud metal-to-metal chattering from the chassis. I took it to two shops, and while they couldn't determine the source of the noise, they did say that there appears to be nothing wrong with critical components. It's frustrating, but I'm going to keep driving it for a few more years before saying good riddance. The rear wheel bearings failed at 175k miles, which was well above average, according to the shop. I had to pay $2500 for two rear wheel bearings, and I also changed the front bearings because they felt a little crunchy. The shop tells me that wheel bearings on these Tacomas commonly fail under 100k miles. The center support bearing failed again, and the driveline vibration is back. The front brake calipers failed last year too, but I had them replaced, along with new pads, rotors, flex lines, and the system was flushed and topped off with fresh fluid. Unfortunately, that only lasted 14 months, and now there's too much runout on the rotors, causing the brakes to pulsate.Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Tacoma. I've had it for 11 years and 175k miles, and I've had to do 6 brake jobs. Recently, I've noticed some leaks from the valve cover gasket and spark plug hole gasket. I changed the PVC valve, but unfortunately, the leak came back. It's been a bit frustrating, especially since I've had other cars like a Honda, Mitsubishi, and Kia that needed fewer repairs through 200k miles. I'm just a bit surprised that the Tacoma has this reputation for quality. What do you think?

  3. Darrion Abshire 2025-01-02

    Vehicle year: 2018

    I hope you had a chance to test drive the TRD Pro with all the options! In my experience, I found that the vehicle could benefit from some additional power. The brakes were a bit mushy and required a bit more pressure than I was used to, but they still got the job done. The transmission could also use some improvement, as it felt a bit clunky during my test drive. However, I did find the fit and finish to be acceptable. The 4WD drive options were a bit complex, but I'm sure with some practice they would become easier to use. Finally, the head unit seemed a bit outdated, but it still got the job done. Overall, I think the TRD Pro has a lot of potential and I hope you find the right vehicle for you!

  4. Raven Barton 2024-11-29

    Vehicle year: 2019

    I recently purchased a 2020 Tacoma TRD Sport with the JBL Premium Sound system. Although I have only driven about 6k miles, I have noticed that the auto transmission can be a bit of a nuisance as it constantly searches for the right gear. However, my biggest disappointment is with the JBL sound system. Despite paying extra for the upgrade, the sound quality is not up to par. It is difficult to hear the music when driving at highway speeds or with the windows down, and even Bluetooth calls are a struggle to hear at max volume. As someone who values good music quality, this is a major letdown. Unfortunately, this experience has left me feeling disappointed and I am unsure if I will purchase another Toyota in the future.

  5. Coy Price 2024-11-25

    Vehicle year: 2017

    The power of the 7th Tacoma is severely lacking and the shifting is erratic. Unfortunately, I have experienced a loss of power on three separate occasions, and the dealership was unable to identify any issues the first time. I am currently seeking further assistance to address this recurring problem. On a positive note, I do appreciate the unique black and red interior design.

Latest positive Toyota Tacoma car reviews

  1. Aidan Graham 2025-01-08

    Vehicle year: 2006

    Bought a used 06 2.7L 5sp. This truck runs great and doesn’t burn oil. My truck has 375,000mi. These trucks are very reliable and they just last forever! I can’t see why this truck wouldn’t make it to a million miles if well maintained. The price of entry is definitely worth it.

  2. Jettie Berge 2025-01-08

    Vehicle year: 2002

    I've always had my eye on a red Toyota 4x4 Xtracab since my college days, and my wife and I were finally able to purchase a brand new TRD off the lot. We've taken it to some of the most inhospitable places in the Colorado high country, moved out of two houses with it, landscaped countless lots with it, and even added kids to the mix. Overall, it's been flawless and we still love it dearly after 8 1/2 years. Admittedly, the interior is a bit small for a child seat and two adults over 5'10, and there are a few rattles. It also gets less than 20 mpg and rides like a buckboard wagon. However, it's a go-anywhere truck that always gets the job done. We've never once regretted our decision to buy it.

  3. Marcellus Rolfson 2025-01-07

    Vehicle year: 1997

    I bought my Tacoma brand new in December of 1996. Although I haven't been the most responsible owner when it comes to regular maintenance and the like, it still runs like a dream. Every morning, it turns over and purrs like a kitten. I've driven it cross-country 7 times and I still have the confidence to do it today, even with its current mileage of 198,000 miles. I've used it for hauling construction debris, towing a loaded U-haul trailer up a mountain, and even fit two men over 6' tall in the regular cab with me. It's even run on no oil (much to my mechanic's chagrin) and an empty gas tank. This machine is truly remarkable and, at times, even miraculous!

  4. Gardner Romaguera 2025-01-07

    Vehicle year: 2008

    This has been an awesome truck for what I use it for. I bought it new in 2008 and it currently has 31,000 miles on it. Although the miles are relatively low, I have not had any failures of any type. The truck has been flawless. It is very comfortable, considering the bench seat, but I did add an aftermarket center console/armrest. Having a place to rest your arm made a big improvement over holding it in your lap or resting on the seat. The engine power is more than adequate. The brakes are a little spongy and road noise on this base model is noticeable.

  5. Greyson Luettgen 2025-01-07

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I've owned Jeeps, Wranglers, and Cherokees before, but I must say that the Tacoma with the TRD off-road package, supercharger, and Baja suspension is a much better vehicle than any of those Jeeps. It's incredibly reliable and performs excellently off-road. While it may not match a Rubicon, it can certainly hang with it. Additionally, the Tacoma is much more comfortable and reliable on the road than a Rubicon. Toyota's dependability is truly unmatched.

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