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: 1998
Great news! We've already covered 220K and we haven't had to make any major repairs, just the basics.
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Vehicle year: 2003
This is a great looking truck that has held up really well over the years. Although I'm a bit of a neat freak, I still get compliments on how good it looks even after 7 years. While there have been 2 minor recalls, it has never failed me. I opted for the TRD off road, which can be a bit bumpy, but that's what you pay for!
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Vehicle year: 2007
The Tacoma is a fantastic compact truck that offers great value for its price. While it may not have as much horsepower as the Frontier or Ridgeline, it makes up for it by towing more, having a higher payload rating, and better acceleration. Additionally, it gets better gas mileage and is both tough and comfortable off-road. Although it is more expensive than some of its competitors, the Tacoma is still the best option out there. That being said, it's worth noting that the Frontier can become a more attractive option when it's priced $7k less.
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Vehicle year: 2008
This is my second late model Tacoma. The 2.7L-4-cylinder engine performs very strongly, yet returns decent mileage, high 20s. The truck fires off with the ignition so quickly, barely hear the starter. I own a base Tacoma with automatic as the only option. The only option I wish I would've gotten was cruise-control, other than not having that, it's a perfect truck without flaws. I would definitely recommend it to a friend!
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Vehicle year: 2009
Hey there! I bought my Tacoma back in June 09, so I've had it for about 7 months now. I really like the look of the truck, but I do have a few suggestions. Firstly, I think it would be great if all of the switches were illuminated, including the 4x4 switch, and if there was a foglight 'on' indicator. However, my biggest complaint, like many others, is with the transmission. It seems to downshift too quickly and 'hunts' to find the right gear after slowing down to turn a corner. I really think Toyota should address this issue. Thanks for listening!
Are you having problems with your Toyota Tacoma?
Adonis Lindgren 2025-02-22
Vehicle year: 2018
I have been driving this vehicle for 18 months now and unfortunately, I still feel the same way. Although the ETF button helps to some extent, it is disappointing that this one issue takes away from the overall impression of the vehicle. As someone who works with Japanese firms every day, I know how particular they are about details, and I find it hard to believe that this type of performance was acceptable to the Toyota engineering team. It's a shame that so much good stuff, from the looks to the technology, goes down the drain because the vehicle can't seem to figure out what gear it wants to be in. Some days, I feel like driving it off a cliff. I wish Toyota had not allowed this to happen, and I regret not test driving a Ridgeline. If you're considering this vehicle, make sure you take a very long test drive and are convinced that you can live with the constant up and down shifting, which can be quite noisy and balky.
Karley Walker 2025-02-22
Vehicle year: 2002
Hello! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We're sorry to hear that the truck was delivered in a less than satisfactory condition. It sounds like there were a few issues with the upholstery and the weld joints. Additionally, it seems like there may be some issues with the AC and heat settings. We appreciate your feedback and will make sure to pass it along to the appropriate parties. Thank you for considering a Tacoma, and please let us know if there's anything else we can do for you!
August Spinka 2025-02-22
Vehicle year: 2011
My husband has a special place in his heart for the Toyota Tacoma, always has. We recently bought him his second one, brand new, and it only has 7,000 miles on it. Unfortunately, it started making an odd sound. We took it into the shop, but they couldn't find anything wrong since the computer wasn't showing a code. So, my husband decided to take a look at it himself and found that the fan shroud was rubbing. We took it back to the shop and this time they decided to take a closer look. They discovered that the fan shroud was being affected by a warped radiator, which was caused by a broken motor mount bolt. It took a week in the shop, but we are relieved that the issue has been resolved. We take good care of our vehicles and it's frustrating when unexpected problems arise.
Dalton Stokes 2025-02-20
Vehicle year: 2009
Hi there! I wanted to share my experience with my Tacoma's radios. Unfortunately, I've had some issues with them malfunctioning, including the third one. However, I'm grateful that Toyota has been willing to replace them under warranty. While I'm a bit concerned about the quality of the radios, I still appreciate Toyota's commitment to customer satisfaction. As a loyal Toyota customer, I've always valued their reliability, and I'm hopeful that this issue will be resolved soon. Thanks for listening!
Cooper Okuneva 2025-02-20
Vehicle year: 2018
It has come to my attention that Toyota is still selling the 2018 Tocoma despite a known computer problem with the fuel system. Unfortunately, after purchasing the vehicle and experiencing jerky acceleration and deceleration, I brought it back to the dealer with about 600 miles on it. Although I was informed that there had been several complaints and Toyota was aware of the issue, they continued to sell the vehicle. After expressing my concerns to the dealership and Toyota customer service, I was informed that there was a computer program problem and that a service advisory would be released sometime in the fall of 2018. I filed complaints with Toyota and the NC Attorney General's Consumer Protection Agency, and a week later, I received a call from the local dealership stating that they had a remedy. I took the vehicle in and waited for the repair, but unfortunately, the problem persisted. Therefore, I would advise against purchasing a Toyota V6 without test driving it and checking for rough acceleration.