2001 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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Common 2001 Toyota Tacoma problems
The 2001 Toyota Tacoma 2.7L engine is known for several common problems that owners have reported. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- Frame Rust: The 2001 Toyota Tacoma has been known to suffer from frame rust, particularly in areas that use salt to de-ice roads during the winter months or coastal towns where there is a higher percentage of saltwater coming in contact with the underside of the vehicle. This issue can lead to perforation of the vehicle’s frame material, which can result in frame failure. Toyota has extended the rust-perforation warranty for these trucks for a period of 15 years from each vehicle’s original with no mileage limitation.
- Rusted Out Rear Leaf Springs and Brackets: Similar to the frame rust issue, some 2001 Toyota Tacoma owners have experienced leaf spring brackets that deteriorate prematurely. The leaf spring pack themselves can also cause concerns with uneven and irregular sagging due to pitting and corrosion of the steel. While Toyota did issue a recall on 2005-2011 (2nd Gen) Toyota Tacomas, no such recall was ever brought about for 1999-2004 model years.
- Timing Belt Failure in 3.4L Engines: The timing belt is a critical component of the engine that keeps the engine in time. Some 2001 Toyota Tacoma owners have reported prematurely worn bushings, which can lead to timing belt failure. This issue can be expensive to fix and requires a significant amount of time and labor.
- Valve Cover Oil Leaks: With any engine capable of reaching the multiple 100,000-mile mark, some ancillary issues are bound to occur. Owners have reported valve cover oil leaks, which can be a relatively cheap fix but requires some know-how and tools.
These are some of the most common problems reported by 2001 Toyota Tacoma owners. However, it is important to note that not all vehicles will experience these issues, and many owners have reported positive experiences with the vehicle.
How many miles will a 2001 Toyota Tacoma last?
The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size, light-duty pickup truck.
While other midsize pickup truck models taper off at 200,000 miles, you can expect the Toyota Tacoma to last up to 300,000. By prioritizing routine maintenance and vehicle care, you can expect the Toyota Tacoma to last a very long time.
What years to avoid when buying a Toyota Tacoma?
Therefore, we give you this list of Toyota Tacoma model years to avoid, not including the all-new 2024 Toyota Tacoma.
- 2002 Toyota Tacoma. Generally speaking, the first-generation Toyota Tacoma is nearly flawless. ...
- 2004 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2005 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2009 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2016 Toyota Tacoma.
What is a common problem with Toyota Tacoma?
Premature Ball Joint Wear: Another highly reported Toyota Tacoma issue is the premature wear on the lower ball joints. This issue most commonly happens in the front suspension, making it more difficult to steer and reducing the cars ability to self-center.
Is there any recalls on a 2001 Toyota Tacoma?
(Reuters) - Toyota Motor Corp <7203. T> is recalling about 150,000 Tacoma mid-size pickup trucks from the model years 2001 to 2004 in cold-weather U.S. states because the spare tire could fall off.
How many miles will a 2001 Toyota Tacoma last?
While other midsize pickup truck models taper off at 200,000 miles, you can expect the Toyota Tacoma to last up to 300,000. By prioritizing routine maintenance and vehicle care, you can expect the Toyota Tacoma to last a very long time.
What is a common problem with Toyota Tacoma?
Premature Ball Joint Wear: Another highly reported Toyota Tacoma issue is the premature wear on the lower ball joints. This issue most commonly happens in the front suspension, making it more difficult to steer and reducing the cars ability to self-center.
What years to avoid when buying a Toyota Tacoma?
Therefore, we give you this list of Toyota Tacoma model years to avoid, not including the all-new 2024 Toyota Tacoma.
- 2002 Toyota Tacoma. Generally speaking, the first-generation Toyota Tacoma is nearly flawless. ...
- 2004 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2005 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2009 Toyota Tacoma. ...
- 2016 Toyota Tacoma.
Is there any recalls on a 2001 Toyota Tacoma?
(Reuters) - Toyota Motor Corp <7203. T> is recalling about 150,000 Tacoma mid-size pickup trucks from the model years 2001 to 2004 in cold-weather U.S. states because the spare tire could fall off.
2001 Toyota Tacoma car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Tacoma problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Toyota Tacoma vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2001 Toyota Tacoma
The NHTSA has received 413 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Toyota Tacoma. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2001 Toyota Tacoma vehicles.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 5TESN92N71Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: We purchased a 2001 Toyota Tacoma Prerunner from a used car lot in Omaha NE. We have had it for 3 months and recently had a mechanic look over the vehicle for repairs. The mechanic indicated the frame is rusted through and the truck is unsafe to drive. The mechanic indicated that there was a recall on the frames possibly, so we followed up with Toyota. Toyota told me that there is no frame recall, but instead they did a "Customer Support Program" in relation to the frame, but it had expired. Toyota told us there is nothing they can do for us. My concern is that Toyota has a known issue, a safety issue, concerning their vehicles but will not rectify it. I would like Toyota to be held liable for their substandard product, no matter how long it has been. A quick Google search about Toyota and recalls is that they are not good at reporting them to you, or their service centers are not good at making sure all recalls are taken care of, and I feel that this is something that needs to be investigated - and in my case, rectified.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-27
- VIN: 5TEVL52N71Z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My Toyota truck frame is rusted with big holes and could break in two at any time.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-14
- VIN: 5TEHN72N31Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously serviced under recall for corrosion underneath the vehicle. The contact became aware that there was corrosion underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and rust protection was sprayed on the corrosion but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was 100,000. The vehicle was taken back to Toyota for service, which was outside the extended warranty and the tech was shown the gaping holes in the frame that had rusted through and at that point the contact was told the extended warranty had expired so they couldn't do anything. The frame has now rusted so bad that Toyota has deemed it unsafe as of 2 months ago when the tech looked at it so the contact reached out to Toyota corporate recall department but they refused to do anything about it as well.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-24
- VIN: 5TEHN72N91Z
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, the contact swerved to the left to avoid another vehicle and the steering had stiff. The contact stated that the front driver’s side wheel then collapsed inside the wheel well. The contact lost control of the vehicle and the vehicle skidded off the highway and onto the right shoulder. The contact stated that the seat belt warning light then illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 05V225000 (Suspension). The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-02
- VIN: 5TEPM62N21Z
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Front part of fuel tank dropped apparently due to corrosion. Electrical and fluid connections to fuel tank were disconnected when the tank dropped. Negligible fuel spill. Vehicle was towed from the scene. Driving on dirt road at the time.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-04
- VIN: 5TEHN72N61Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The complete chassis frame under the vehicle, contains a lot of rust and holes due to corrosion. Some years ago, a Toyota dealership asked me to bring the vehicle in to one of their dealerships, where an undercoating was painted on the frame surface. However, the coating is worn away and the rust is visible again and this time there are even more deterioration.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-27
- VIN: 5TEHN72N61Z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: - 2001 Toyota Tacoma New Replacement Frame Rusted, it is available for inspection. - The frame is rusted to the point you can push your finger through it, failure concern while driving. -The local Toyota dealership and corporate office, states the vehicle is not covered in any way. - At this time the vehicle has not been inspected due to dealership stating there are no recalls on the second frame that was installed in the 2001 Toyota Tacoma for the original rusting problem. This vehicle likely will not pass state inspection. - There are no warning devices for this problem. The rust/corrosion was located during an oil change.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-11
- VIN: 5TEWM72N41Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY FRAME IS COMPLETELY RUSTED AND ALL THE CAPOMINTES ARE ALSO. I CANT CHANGE ANYTHING PUT BECAUSE OF IT. MY LEAF SPRINGS ARE SHOT WHERE THEY ARE MOUNTED TO THE FRAME. IS WEAKING WHICH IS MOVING MY BACK AXLE OFF BALANCE. MY FRONT AILMENT IS COMPLETELY OFF. I AND DREAK ANYTHING LOSE TO FIX THE ISSUE'S. IT FEELS LIKE THEY COMPLETELY FORGOT TO SPRAY MY FRAME ON MY TRUCK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-13
- VIN: 5tepm62n71z
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Excessive frame rust
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-12
- VIN: 5TEWN72NX1Z
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I SEE THAT MY FRAME IS CRACKING. SO I LOOKED IT UP. AND FOUND MULTIPLE RECALLS ON THE TUCK. I NOTICED THAT I HAVE A VERY SLOPPY STEERING WHEEL. IT SAID THAT WAS A RECALL TOO. I'M DON'T NO IF PREVIOUS OWNER HAD ANYTHING RECALLED.
SUSPENSION,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-05
- VIN: 5TEWM72N31Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: MY FRAME IS COMPLETELY RUSTED AND ALL THE CAPOMINTES ARE ALSO. I CANT CHANGE ANYTHING PUT BECAUSE OF IT. MY LEAF SPRINGS ARE SHOT WHERE THEY ARE MOUNTED TO THE FRAME. IS WEAKING WHICH IS MOVING MY BACK AXLE OFF BALANCE. MY FRONT AILMENT IS COMPLETELY OFF. I AND DREAK ANYTHING LOSE TO FIX THE ISSUE'S. IT FEELS LIKE THEY COMPLETELY FORGOT TO SPRAY MY FRAME ON MY TRUCK
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-25
- VIN: 5TEWN72N41Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I BROUGHT MY 2001 TOYOTA TACOMA FOR AN INSPECTION IN JANUARY 2020 AND DISCOVERED THE FRAME WAS ROTTED AND IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. I CONTACTED EMPIRE TOYOTA SERVICE AND WAS TOLD THAT THE CAMPAIGN TO FIX THIS ISSUE EXPIRED SEVERAL YEARS AGO AND I WOULD HAVE TO PAY TO HAVE THIS FIXED. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF THIS CAMPAIGN NOR WAS MY HUSBAND WHO WAS THE PREVIOUS OWNER. I HAVE DISCOVERED THAT MANY OTHER TACOMA OWNERS ARE IN THE SAME PREDICAMENT. THIS IS AN EXPENSIVE FIX THAT I CANNOT AFFORD. TOYOTA NEEDS TO STEP UP AND MAKE THIS A RECALL TO BE FIXED REGARDLESS OF TIMEFRAME.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-28
- VIN: 5TENL42NX1Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 TOYOTA TACOMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE'S SUBFRAME FELT LOOSE UNDERNEATH. THE CONTACT NOTICED RUST AND CORROSION UNDERNEATH THE WHEEL WELL AND ON THE SUBFRAME OF THE VEHICLE. RIVERHEAD TOYOTA (1655 ROUTE 58 (OLD COUNTRY ROAD), RIVERHEAD, NY 11901 (631) 727-7722) INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND STATED THE VEHICLE WAS NOT SAFE TO BE DRIVEN AND THAT THE SUBFRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED OF A SPECIAL PROGRAM TO THE REPLACE THE SUBFRAME BACK IN 01/2016 WHICH EXPIRED. THE CONTACT HAD NOT RECEIVED THE NOTIFICATION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER PROVIDED THE CONTACT WITH A CASE NUMBER AND PROMISED A CALLBACK. THE VEHICLE WAS STILL UNREPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-21
- VIN: 5TEHN72N41Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I'M WRITING YOU BECAUSE I HAD MY 2001 TACOMA INSPECTED FOR THE FRAME RUST RECALL IN 2010. AT THAT TIME I WAS TOLD THAT MY TRUCK WOULD BE SPRAYED WITH AN INHIBITOR TO PREVENT RUST. THE VEHICLE FRAME HAS SINCE RUSTED AND IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE SPRAY INHIBITOR OBVIOUSLY DID NOT WORK OR WAS APPLIED INCORRECTLY. THE VEHICLE STARTED SHOWING THESE SIGNS WHILE DRIVINH.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-10
- VIN: 5TEHN72N51Z
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: OUR 2001 TOYOTA TACOMA 4WD DOUBLE CAB (WITH 143,000 MILES AND EXCELLENT CONDITION) ABS CONTROL UNIT FAILED SOMETIMES IN EARLY JAN 2020. AFTER WE SEARCHED FOR REPLACEMENT PART ON TOYOTA DEALERS' WEBSITES, THEY SHOWED "THIS PRODUCT IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE." OUR SHOP SEARCHED AND WAS TOLD BY TOYOTA DEALERS THE SAME THING. I CONTACTED DEALERS AND THEY SAID NOTHING THEY COULD DO BUT TO CONTACT TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA IN PLANO, TEXAS. WE ALONG WITH OUR SHOP SEARCHED FOR USED/RECYCLED PART ACROSS AMERICA. WE FOUND ONE FROM OREGON BUT IT DID NOT WORK AFTER INSTALLATION. MARCH 17, 2020, WE CONTACTED TOYOTA IN PLANO, TEXAS, WITH A LETTER TO CHRIS NIELSEN, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF PRODUCTS SUPPORT & CHIEF QUALITY OFFICER, ABOUT THIS ABS CONTROL UNIT WITH A "SAFETY ISSUE" AS MY FAMILY AND 10 OF THOUSANDS OF OTHER TOYOTA OWNERS WHO HAD STUCK OR HAVE BEEN STUCK WITH THIS "SAFETY ISSUE." TOYOTA RESPONDED MARCH 27, 30, 31, APRIL 6, 8, BUT REFUSED TO ADDRESS THE "SAFETY ISSUE." FINALLY, ON APRIL 9, TOYOTA SAID THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. WHEN I ASKED IF WE, ALONG WITH THOUSAND OF OTHER TOYOTA OWNERS ARE STUCK WITH THIS "SAFETY ISSUE"? TOYOTA RESPONDED BY SAYING WE GOT THERE PHONE NUMBER AND ADDRESS IF WE HAVE OTHER QUESTIONS. MEANWHILE, ON APRIL 3, 2020, WE FOUND A SECOND UNIT, BUT IT AGAIN FAILED AFTER 2 MONTHS. THESE ARE EXPENSIVE UNITS EVEN A USED ONE AND IT WAS VERY EXPENSIVE TO INSTALL AND TO UNINSTALL. MOST IMPORTANTLY, WE AND THOUSAND OF OTHER TOYOTA OWNERS ACROSS AMERICA ARE STUCK WITH THIS "SAFETY ISSUE" BECAUSE NO PART WAS AVAILABLE ANYWHERE WITHIN US. IT IS NOT JUST 2001 AS OTHER YEARS USED THE SAME PART. TOYOTA KNEW LONG AGO AND DECIDED NOT TO PRODUCE THEM ANYMORE AND THAT IS WHY PEOPLE ACROSS AMERICA ARE STUCK WITH THIS, KNOWN OR UNKNOWN. I WOULD NOT BE SURPRISED IF THERE HAVE BEEN FATALITIES INVOLVED THIS ABS CONTROL UNIT BUT NO ONE KNEW ABOUT IT.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-06
- VIN: 5TEWM72NX1Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 TOYOTA TACOMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUBFRAME OF THE VEHICLE SEVERELY RUSTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUBFRAME RUSTED THROUGH AT THE SHOCK ABSORBERS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PRIME TOYOTA - BOSTON (1605 VFW PKWY, WEST ROXBURY, MA 02132), AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE SUBFRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 175,000.*DT *BF *TR THE CONSUMER PROVIDED PHOTOS. *TR
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-18
- VIN: 5TEWN72N61Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TOOK TRUCK FOR INSPECTION, WOULDN'T PASS BECAUSE FRAME IS RUSTED THROUGH AND RIGHT REAR SHOCK ABSORBER IS UNATTACHED BECAUSE OF FRAME. MECHANIC SAYS DRIVING IT IS UNSAFE. TOYOTA HAD RECALL I WAS UNAWARE OF FOR RUSTED FRAMES, WHEN CONTACTED THEM THEY SAID THEY COULD DO NOTHING. *TR
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-01
- VIN: 5TEHN72NX1Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRAME IS COMPLETELY RUSTED OUT
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-13
- VIN: 5TEGN92N21Z
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: UNDER MODERATE ACCELERATION WHILE TURNING LEFT, THE VEHICLE SURGED AND CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE UNINTENTIONALLY. FORCEFUL BRAKING WAS APPLIED TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT AND GRADUALLY SLOW THE VEHICLE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-01
- VIN: 5TENL42N51Z
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAVE REPLACED THE LOWER BALL JOINTS FIVE TIMES IN THE LAST FOUR YEARS. THREE ON THE DRIVERS SIDE AND TWICE ON THE PASSENGERS SIDE. TWICE I WAS IN SOMEONE'S DRIVEWAY TWICE I WAS TRAVELING ON A HIGHWAY AND ONCE I WAS TURNING A CORNER. I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE ABOUT FIVE YEARS AGO HOWEVER I NEVER REAPONDED AT THE TIME. NOW WHEN I LOOK ON THIS WEBSITE IT SAYS THERE WAS NO RECALL SO I AM UNSURE HOW TO PROCEED.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-09
- VIN: 5TEWM72N51Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRAME OF THIS VEHICLE HAS RUSTED BEYOND BEING SAFE TO DRIVE. VEHICLE WILL NOT PASS VIRGINIA STATE INSPECTION. RUST IS DUE TO FACTORY MANUFACTURING DEFECT THAT TOYOTA HAS ACKNOWLEDGED. I AM THE THIRD OWNER OF THIS VEHICLE AND HAD NO WAY OF KNOWING OF ANY TOYOTA REMEDIES TO THIS SITUATION. I HAVE CONTACTED TOYOTA CORPORATE AND THEY REFUSE TO OFFER ANY HELP. THIS IS AN INHERIT FACTORY DEFECT AND AGE AND TIME SHOULD MAKE NO DIFFERENCE. THERE ARE MANY OF THESE VEHICLES STILL OPERATING ON THE HIGHWAYS WITH THIS DEFECT CREATING A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION.
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-08
- VIN: 5TEHN72NX1Z
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I NOTICED MY 2001 TOYOTA TACOMA MAKING ODD NOISES WHILE DRIVING. I DECIDED TO HAVE MY MECHANIC TAKE A LOOK AT IT FROM THE BOTTOM OF TRUCK: HE SAW AND TOOK PICTURES OF THE OBSERVABLE EXTENSIVE RUSTED/CORROSION AND PERFORATED AREAS ON THE FRAME/CHASSIS OF THE TRUCK AND SAID IT WAS A GOOD IDEA TO TAKE IT TO DEALERSHIP SINCE THERE HAS BEEN A SETTLEMENT LAWSUIT FOR DEFECTS ON TOYOTA TACOMA'S THAT WHERE NOT TREATED WELL ENOUGH WITH THE RUST INHIBITOR SPRAY. I TOOK MY TACOMA TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE I PURCHASED IT ORIGINALLY AND THEY SAID EXACTLY WHAT MY MECHANIC HAD ALREADY TOLD ME ABOUT THE RUSTED AND PERFORATED AREAS ON THE FRAME/CHASSIS AND STATED THAT THE CHASSIS/FRAME HAS AN ADVANCED CORROSION/ RUST DAMAGES TO THE POINT OF THE FRAME BEING FRACTURED OR BROKEN IN HALF IF THE PROBLEM CONTINUES, WHEREAS IT'S VERY DANGEROUS TO CONTINUE DRIVING THE TRUCK. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF THIS MANUFACTURER DEFECT ON THE RUSTY FRAMES AND NOW AM CONSIDERING FURTHER INTO HIRING AN ATTORNEY REGARDING MY 2001 TOYOTA TACOMA. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD FOR ME AND MY LOVED ONES AND I BELEIVE IT'S INCONSIDERATE AND SHAMING ON TOYOTA TO NOT HAVE ONE SINGLE RECALL INFORMATION ON 2001 TOYOTA TACOMA'S. I HOPE I CAN GET ANSWERS SOON IN REGARDS TO THIS PROBLEM AND WILL DUE WHAT'S NECESSARY TO HAVE TOYOTA RESPOND TO MY ISSUE. I HAVE ALREADY CALLED THEM 4MONTHS AGO AND THEY STATED I HAD TO FIRST FILE THIS COMPLAINT ON THIS WEBSITE IN ORDER TO PROCEED TO THE NEXT STEPS.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-17
- VIN: 5TEHN72NX1Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 2001 TOYOTA TACOMA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO VEHICLE HAVING A RUST AND CORROSION PROBLEM ON THE FRAME. *AS *JS
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-02
- VIN: 5TEHN72N41Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I'M WRITING YOU BECAUSE I HAD MY 2001 TACOMA INSPECTED FOR THE FRAME RUST RECALL IN 2010. AT THAT TIME I WAS TOLD THAT MY TRUCK WOULD BE SPRAYED WITH AN INHIBITOR TO PREVENT RUST. THE VEHICLE FRAME HAS SINCE RUSTED AND IS MOST LIKELY UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE SPRAY INHIBITOR OBVIOUSLY DID NOT WORK OR WAS APPLIED INCORRECTLY. THE SHOCK MOUNT HAS RUSTED FROM THE FRAME WHILE DRIVING ON A CITY STREET.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-26
- VIN: 5TEHN72NX1Z
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SEPTEMBER 28, 2019 [XXX] [XXX] RE: [XXX] 2001 TOYOTA TOYOTA MOTOR SALES, U.S.A., INC. P.O. BOX 259001 PLANO, TX 75025-9001 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: MY DAUGHTER [XXX] PURCHASED THE ABOVE TOYOTA TACOMA IN 2014. AMBER WAS NEVER NOTIFIED THERE WAS AN ISSUE FOR A RUST PROBLEM AND FRAME WITH CORROSION. PLEASE SEE PICTURE BELOW. AFTER A LENGTHY WAIT ON THE PHONE, THE PROBLEM WAS ADDRESSED BY THIS INFORMATION: THE FRAME ISSUES DO NOT HAPPEN OVERNIGHT. THIS TOYOTA EMPLOYEE STATED, SHE WAS SURPRISED THAT NO ONE THAT EVER WORKED ON THE TOYOTA TRUCK SAID THERE WAS AN ISSUE. I FIND THIS VERY IRONIC SINCE TOYOTA KNEW THERE WAS A PROBLEM AND DID NOT CONTACT THE OWNERS OF THE VEHICLE. THE FRAME IS RUSTED COMPLETELY THROUGH TO THE POINT THAT IT IS NOT SAFE TO DRIVE IS MY DAUGHTER SUPPOSED TO REPLACE A BAD FRAME THAT YOU PUT UNDER THERE? NO WAY. THE CASE WORKER THAT SHE SPOKE TO WAS NOT HELPFUL WITH NO REGARD WHATSOEVER TO THE MONEY MY DAUGHTER HAD LOST ON THEIR WORTHLESS PRODUCT MUCH LESS HER SAFETY THAT WAS PUT AT RISK DRIVING THEIR PRODUCT WITH THE FAULTY FRAME THAT THEY USED. MY FAMILY/FRIENDS WILL NEVER BUY A TOYOTA PRODUCT AGAIN. BOTTOM LINE: MY DAUGHTER HAS BEEN DRIVING IN A VEHICLE THAT COULD HAVE RESULTED IN THE DEATH OF HER AND MY LOVED ONES. TOYOTA KNOWS THAT THE FRAMES OF THEIR 1994-2004 VEHICLES (800,000 OF THEM) ARE DEFECTIVE. YET, TOYOTA HAS NEVER RECALLED THESE VEHICLES. THEY SHOULD BE REPAIRED, BOUGHT BACK, OR REPLACED BY TOYOTA. HOW MANY INDIVIDUALS WILL HAVE TO BE INJURED OR DIE BECAUSE THIS PROBLEM IS NOT ADDRESSED? VERY SAD SITUATION. SINCERELY [XXX] C.C. WWW.NHTSA.GOV NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION 1200 NEW JERSEY AVENUE, SE WASHINGTON, DC 20590 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TT *TR
2001 Toyota Tacoma recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2001 Toyota Tacoma.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE
- Summary: Toyota is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2004 Tacoma light trucks manufactured from August 28, 2000, through August 27, 2004, and originally sold, or currently registered, in the following cold climate states with high road salt usage: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. The spare tire in the subject vehicles is located underneath the rear of the vehicle and held by a spare tire carrier. A lift plate on the carrier is used to help raise, lower and retain the tire. During its manufacture, the lift plate may not have been sufficiently coated with anti-corrosion materials. If the plate is insufficiently coated and the vehicle is operated in cold climate regions where road salts are frequently used, road spray can reach the carrier assembly and corrode the lift plate.
- Consequence: Corrosion of the plate could cause it to break, which could result in detachment of the spare tire from the vehicle. Detachment of the spare tire could result in a road hazard which may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, dealers will inspect the vehicle and replace the spare tire carrier lift plate as necessary, free of charge. The recall began in February 2013. Owners may contact their Toyota dealer or the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.
- Manufacturer: AJ MOTORSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, DUE TO A MANUFACTURING ISSUE IN THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE SURFACE OF THE BALL OF THE JOINT MAY HAVE BEEN SCRATCHED. THE BALL JOINT MAY EVENTUALLY EXPERIENCE EXCESSIVE WEAR AND LOOSENESS, RESULTING IN INCREASED STEERING EFFORT.
- Consequence: THE LOWER BALL JOINT MAY SEPARATE FROM THE KNUCKLE CAUSING LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 5, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Manufacturer: TOYOTA MOTOR NORTH AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, DURING SIDE IMPACT NCAP TEST (I.E. LINCAP TEST), A FLANGE AT THE REAR END OF THE DOUBLE CAB BODY DEFORMED AND INTERFERED WITH THE FUEL INLET HOSE THAT CONNECTS THE FUEL FILLER PIPE AND FUEL TANK, RESULTING IN DAMAGE TO THE FUEL INLET HOSE.
- Consequence: THIS DAMAGE COULD RESULT IN FUEL LEAKAGE, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A FIRE IF IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUEL HOSE PROTECTOR ON THE BODY FLANGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 3, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT TOYOTA AT 1-800-331-4331.
- Manufacturer: SOUTHEAST TOYOTA DISTRIBUTORS
- Components: TIRES:SIDEWALL
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: 4X2 TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH TU4 WHITE LETTER TIRE UPGRADE OPTION AND DISTRIBUTED BY SOUTHEAST TOYOTA DISTRIBUTORS IN THE STATES OF ALABAMA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, NORTH AND SOUTH CAROLINA. TIRE DAMAGE MAY HAVE OCCURRED DUE TO IMPROPER INSTALLATION, WHICH COULD CAUSE THE TIRE TO DEFLATE OR A BULGE APPEARING IN THE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRE.
- Consequence: AN IMPROPERLY INFLATED TIRE COULD RESULT IN VEHICLE HANDLING PROBLEMS OR A BLOW OUT OF AN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED TIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL CHECK ALL FOUR TIRES, REBALANCE AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE ANY DAMAGED TIRE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 3, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SOUTHEAST TOYOTA AT 1-800-301-6859.
Negative 2001 Toyota Tacoma car reviews
Positive 2001 Toyota Tacoma car reviews
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I've had two Tacomas now and I plan on keeping this one as long as it keeps running. If you're in the market for a small truck, I highly recommend Toyota over other brands like S10, Frontier, and Ranger. Toyota's reliability and resale value are unmatched. The first Tacoma I had was sold because it didn't have the xtracab, but it had 34k miles on it and never had a single problem. The new one, with only 13k miles, is even nicer than the first, with a great standard feature of a 3-in-1 stereo. The gas mileage is fantastic and the ride is much smoother than my 97 Tacoma. Thanks for considering Toyota!
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Hi there! I just wanted to share that I recently became the proud owner of a 2001 Tacoma with less than 13000 miles on it. This is actually my second Toyota truck and I couldn't be happier! It's an automatic with a '4 banger' engine, and it's in great condition with a new car warranty - how amazing is that?! It's exactly what I was looking for. Best regards, JACK
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What an awesome truck! It's great to hear that you haven't had any problems with it, even after buying it with 130,000 miles on it. The rear locking differential is a game-changer on snow and ice, although it's important to note that it's not a substitute for 4x4. With around 300 pounds in the bed, you haven't had to worry about getting stuck in the snow yet - that's fantastic! It's also worth mentioning that this truck is quite handsome on the exterior. While there are a few issues with the interior, such as the location of the clock and the seat belts not always retracting, they're not major concerns. With gas mileage around 17 mpg, this truck is still a great choice. Even though it's 2wd, it's still a very capable truck.
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This is the best vehicle I have ever had! Its V6 is so powerful that it pulls my 8' trailer and ATV with no problem. Although the bed is short and my ATV won't fit, that's what makes it appealing. It has more rear leg room than our Rav4 and has taken me anywhere I've attempted to go. Winter driving is great in 4WD, but it slides a lot in 2WD. Unfortunately, I couldn't get enough sandbags for 2WD. This is the only vehicle I've had for 2 years and I'm still in love with it! Oh yeah, the only problem I've had is that the front end is out of alignment already. It could be due to the off-road driving it has seen, but possibly due to Missouri's poor highway system.
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This is the first truck that I've even owned and I love it! My father had an '87 with over 300K miles on it, and I finally got tired of borrowing it (that's the excuse I gave my wife). When I saw the 4-door model, I fell in love. It was the last one on the lot, so I test drove it, came back, and asked where do I sign?
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2001 Toyota Tacoma problems:
2001 Toyota Tacoma Problems and Complaints - 10 Issues
Problem with your 2001 Toyota Tacoma? Our list of 10 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2001 Toyota Tacoma.
Tacoma 1st Gen problems | Tacoma World
Jun 27, 2020 ... 2001 White Tacoma Prerunner 4d. The last few times I went looking at Tacoma's the most common issue I saw was oil leaking out the rear main ...
2001 Toyota Tacoma Reliability - Consumer Reports
What Owners Say · Catalytic converter. "The catalytic converter is some what stopped up, giving an engine warning light, however, the engine still runs smoothly ...
Common Tacoma problems I should be aware of? | Tacoma World
Oct 19, 2008 ... Exhaust tends to have minor issues. Mostly gaskets and o2s going bad and cat converters get tired. Rear drum brakes have a problem with the pot ...
Tacoma common problems - YotaTech Forums
Sep 24, 2004 ... Tags 03, 1996, 2001, 2004, common, dash ... I have a 1995 Toyota tacoma 2.4l 2wd truck with 139,000 miles. ... problem. Turned out to be a partial ...
Other years of Toyota Tacoma
Are you having problems with your 2001 Toyota Tacoma?
Kyler Ullrich 2025-01-07
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.
Ezekiel Barton 2024-10-16
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Toyota Tacoma. It's just over 4 years old and has only 32,000 miles on it, but it's been a great ride so far. Living in the sticks of Northern NH, I spend a lot of time on logging roads, so many of those miles have been tough ones. Despite that, the truck has been completely reliable and has lived up to my expectations of Toyota quality. The only minor issue I've had is with the e-brakes locking up, but nothing too serious. I do wish the gas mileage was a bit better for a 4 cylinder, only getting about 17 mpg in town and 21 mpg on the highway. However, I use my truck in all conditions to haul wood, trailer my snowmachine, and 4-wheeler, and it runs great! Thanks for listening.
Abdiel Altenwerth 2024-09-28
Purchased at 18 sold at 19 years old. Toyota could learn a lot from these trucks. While some may find it underpowered and a gas hog, it has its strengths. Unfortunately, dash rattles and poor dealer service are the norm, but these issues can be addressed. While some may consider it overpriced and overrated, it has its loyal fans. Like any vehicle, there may be small issues that arise, but they are usually easily fixed. Let's hope Toyota takes note and continues to improve their products.
Kamren Beatty 2024-06-15
Your vehicle has very good reliability, although it may feel a little cheap compared to American builders. The 4-wheel drive system works very well. However, the body could be stronger and the seats should provide more support and comfort for larger individuals like us.
Lawrence Casper 2024-03-19
The truck's performance is unsatisfactory. The V6 engine lacks power and produces a loud and unpleasant noise, especially during cold idle. The shifting between gears is not smooth and produces a noticeable clunking sound. Additionally, lifting the foot from the accelerator causes a jerky sensation, which may indicate a problem with the universal joint.