2012 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 2012 Toyota Tacoma problems
The 2012 Toyota Tacoma, a mid-size truck with a 5- or 6-foot composite bed, is known for its reliable and easy-to-work-on powertrain. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems.
- Rusting Frames: Some 2012 Toyota Tacoma owners have reported issues with rusted frames, especially in cold climate states. Toyota has offered campaigns for vehicles registered in these states, but some owners have had trouble getting warranty coverage due to expired warranties. It is essential to check if the frame has been replaced or received CRC application under one of the campaigns if you are considering buying a used Tacoma. Regular frame inspections and rustproofing can provide extra protection.
- Weak Rear Leaf Springs: The rear leaf springs in the 2012 Toyota Tacoma are prone to weakness, which can cause the truck's rear end to sag. Toyota has issued recalls for certain model years to replace rear leaf spring assemblies, and squeaking sounds may indicate worn-out or missing spacers. It is crucial to check for recalls and inspect the rear end of the truck for signs of weak springs when buying a used Tacoma.
- Faulty Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor (A/F Sensor): The 4.0L V6 engine in the 2012 Toyota Tacoma may experience issues with the air/fuel ratio sensor, which can affect the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address this issue.
- Transmission Issues: High-mileage Tacomas from 1995 to 2015, including the 2012 model, have been known to experience faulty transmission systems. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address this issue.
- Peeling Paint: Some 2012 Toyota Tacoma owners have reported issues with the truck's paint peeling, particularly on the roof. Repainting can be a costly repair, potentially costing up to $3,000.
These common problems should be considered when purchasing, owning, or maintaining a 2012 Toyota Tacoma. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and address these issues, ensuring the vehicle's longevity and reliability.
Is 2012 Toyota Tacoma a good year?
A reputation for sturdy build quality and excellent reliability also puts the Tacoma on par with many of its full-size competitors. For 2012, the Tacoma also takes a clear lead in the arena of in-car electronics, adding Toyota's new Entune services to the options list.
How many miles will a 2012 Tacoma last?
Expect Your Tacoma to Run a Minimum of 200,000 Miles with Adequate Care, or 300,000 with Excellent Care.
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.
How reliable is the 2012 Toyota Tacoma?
A reputation for sturdy build quality and excellent reliability also puts the Tacoma on par with many of its full-size competitors. For 2012, the Tacoma also takes a clear lead in the arena of in-car electronics, adding Toyota's new Entune services to the options list.
What is the most common problem with the Toyota Tacoma?
Most Commonly Reported Toyota Tacoma Problems
Toyota Tacoma Transmission Problems: Over the years, some Tacoma drivers have reported experiencing a faulty automatic transmission once the car was over a certain high-mileage point.
Is there any recalls on a 2012 Toyota Tacoma?
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2012 and 2013 Toyota Tacoma and Lexus RX350 vehicles and certain model year 2012 Toyota Rav4 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the brake system contains a brake actuator that adjusts the fluid pressure of each wheel cylinder.
How many miles will a 2012 Tacoma last?
Expect Your Tacoma to Run a Minimum of 200,000 Miles with Adequate Care, or 300,000 with Excellent Care.
2012 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:
- Engine problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Toyota Tacoma vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Toyota Tacoma
The NHTSA has received 286 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Toyota Tacoma. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Toyota Tacoma vehicles.
2023-12-18
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-20
- VIN: 3TMMU4FNXCM
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Under the bottom of my truck, there is tons of rust. I know a lot of the trucks my year, make, and model has been recalled for rust on the body and other parts of the truck. I was told that a Toyota dealership should replace it with the amount it has, and now a hole has appeared but they only told me a price to fix everything that is rusted. Just puts my vehicle at risk driving it back and forth to work.
2023-09-24
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5TFJU4GNXCX
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Will not fix the frame. my husband has a 2005 and it looks new compared to my 2012. The last mechanic I used told me not to bring it back to him to much rust. Toyota said it passed their inspection. There is no way. They’ve had my truck almost a yr. I thought they was fixing it. No they just been chilling. They never called me to tell me it was they wouldn’t honor the recall. Nothing. I keep reading on here cold climate states are the only complaints. Someone is lying on here because I know at least 20 Toyota Tacoma owners from Texas who have filed incident reports.
2023-09-15
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-10
- VIN: 5TFMU4FN7CX
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The check engine light on the dashboard of my 2012 Tacoma turned on and will no longer accelerate appropriately and especially while driving uphill, posing a danger to myself and other drivers. I was on a two-lane highway with a cliffside drop on one side and a wall of steep rock on the other and absolutely no where to go as there was only one lane going in each direction and my truck would not accelerate over 20mph in an area where you’re expected to keep a pace above 40mph and as such ended up with a long row of impatient and increasingly frustrated drivers behind me, only more incited by my having to turn on my hazard lights as a result of a crawling speed I was forced to deal with and with nowhere to pull over and get out of the way. How can I possibly rely on this vehicle to be safe for me or anyone else, especially on a fast-moving highway in this condition? I have taken the vehicle to an auto shop and I as told the air injection system is bad and that this is a typical problem for Toyota Tacomas and the cost would be just shy of $3,000! I was recommended by a mechanic to reach out to Toyota directly because this is obviously an issue the manufacturer should readily respond to and repair. Please advise.
2023-08-08
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-28
- VIN: 5TFUX4EN1CX
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Sudden and total loss of power steering while backing up to park. There were/are no warning lights or messages displayed on the dashboard. With great difficulty, I was able to drive the car to my local mechanic. Steering was extremely difficult. The power steering unit has been ordered by my mechanic.
2022-12-20
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-01
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5TFJU4GNXCX
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My truck lost drivability while I was going 60 I ran into a ditch to stop. It hads two codes . I took it in they replaced my rack n pinion. Check engine light came on . Mechanic said he could not work on it anymore because of the rust. To much corrosion he would be risking liability for other parts getting damaged because of all the rust. Took it to mike Shaw to have frame tested. It passed they said. But I can’t find a mechanic to work on it but mike Shaw and they’ll just keep charging for each item they don’t care.
2022-11-11
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-20
- VIN: 3TMLU4EN2CM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Drivetrain vibration and cricket chripping noise; likly coming from propeller shaft
2022-08-30
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-24
- VIN: 5TFJU4GN1CX
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle failed to exceed 45 MPH. The contact stated that the check engine and traction control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who informed him about a Special Service Campaign: 20TC01. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the air injection pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed him that the Special Service Campaign: 20TC01 had expired. No additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.
2021-09-23
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-23
- VIN: 5TFLU4EN9CX
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The frame has rusted through in several spots.
2021-09-08
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-20
- VIN: 5tfux4en4cx
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The passenger leaf spring or right leaf spring has broken and the truck has not hauled any kind of weight, there is a previous recall on similar trucks but they end with 2011 models but looking at the 2012 model it’s build is similar and seems to have a chance of having the same effect as mine already has.
2021-09-02
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-01
- VIN: 5tfuu4en7cx
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds in areas with low traction, several unknown warning lights would illuminate on the instrument panel and the vehicle would begin to drift independently. Once the contact regained control of the vehicle, the warning lights would disappear, and the vehicle would resume normal operation. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer for repair. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V054000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic, Electronic Stability Control) which he linked to the failure. Upon speaking with the dealer, the contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and the contact was directed to the website for assistance. The vehicle remained in the possession of the dealer and had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 85,500.
2021-07-04
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5TFPX4EN0CX
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was attempting to park in a parking space to return items at a department store at a mall. All of a sudden my truck accelerator on its own. The truck traveled over two cements curbs crossed a road before traveling through a chain-link fence down the front of retaining wall into a wooded area swamp. It took three tow trucks to remove the truck. Police report 21-374-AC. Truck wasn't repairable so my insurance company totalled the truck. I filed a complaint with Toyota in Case number 210602000065 but no outcome. This is the second time this truck has had accelerator issues. My first complaint was Aug 2019 with Toyota case number 1908060035. Toyota pulled the black box and came back stating they couldn't find anything.
2021-06-19
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-11
- VIN: 3TMMU4FN7CM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Is there a recall on leaf springs
2021-06-13
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-12
- VIN: 5TFLU4EN5CX
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Switching valve stuck open bank 1 and 2. Truck is in limp mode. Air pump is full of water.
2021-06-02
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5TFPX4EN0CX
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: June 1st 2021 I went to park in a parking space at a local mall. My truck instead of stopping it accelerated out of control jumped two stone curbs, drove though a fence and landed into a swamp. Call Toyota and they have opened a new case # 210602000065. Police report # 21-374-AC. This isn't the first time that this has happen with this truck. It happen in Aug 2019. I contacted Toyota case number 1908060035. They sent out EAA Engineering Analysis Ass. out who did a ACM.CDRX file a month later. Toyota came back said they couldn't find anything wrong and my case was closed. Another incident in winter of 2016 where my truck was stopped and it accelerated on its own and It drove in the 4 way intersection where it caused an accident. lots of damage to cars. Toyota was contacted and they sent me to a dealer for repairs. Dealership has records of my truck coming in since I owned it with complaints of Truck not moving at all to all of sudden to acceleration on its own.
2021-04-20
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-16
- VIN: 3TMJU4GN4CM
- Components: TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 TOYOTA TACOMA. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 80 MPH, WHILE THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS NOT BEING DEPRESSED, THE BRAKES LOCKED UP WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO START SLIDING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRACTION CONTROL WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V054000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL) HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 76,000.
2021-04-15
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-15
- VIN: 5TFUX4EN9CX
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: HAVING THE SAME ISSUE AS THE 2011 TACOMA'S WITH FAULTY LEAF SPRINGS STARTED AS A SQUEAK SPRAYED WD-40 AND FLUID FILM DIDN'T HELP THEN FEW MONTHS LATER HEARD A CLUNK AND NOW DRIVER SIDE LEAF SPRING IS BROKE THIS SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER THE RECALL!!
2021-03-11
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-20
- VIN: 5TFUU4EN7CX
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: RECENTLY I HAVE NOTICED THE STEERING ON MY 2012 TACOMA IS HARDER THAT NORMAL AND NO LONGER RETURNS TO CENTER AFTER TURNING. UPON INVESTIGATING ONLINE AND VISUALLY INSPECTING MY TRUCK, THE INTERMEDIATE STEERING ROD LOWER BALL JOINT HAS FAILED! UPON VISUAL INSPECTION IT APPEARS THAT THE CUPS AND BEARING ARE DESTROYED . TOYOTA CONSIDERS THIS A NORMAL WEAR ITEM!! THE TRUCK ONLY HAS 34,400 MILES ACTUALLY THIS IS A DANGEROUS SITUATION THAT WILL SOMEDAY RESULT IN INJURY OR DEATH AND SHOULD BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY BY TOYOTA. IT APPEARS THAT MANY TOYOTA OWNERS ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME ISSUE FOR MANY YEARS.
2021-01-27
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-23
- VIN: 3TMLU4EN5CM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: HORN WILL NOT WORK WITH THE STEERING WHEEL CENTERED. IF YOU TURN THE STEERING WHEEL 90% TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT THE HORN HAS WORKED SOMETIMES. TOYOTA ISSUED A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM ON OTHER TACOMAS BUT NOT FOR THE 2012. THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP IS SAYING THAT ITS MOST LIKELY THE CLOCK SPRING.
2021-01-21
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-13
- VIN: 3TMMU4FNXCM
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN ACCELERATING THE TRUCK LOST ALL POWER AND ACCELERATION. ENGINE LIGHT IS ON. ENGINE WILL NOT INCREASE RPM WHEN ACCELERATOR IS PRESSED. TRUCK WILL SLOWLY DRIVE BUT IS UNSAFE TO BE ON THE ROAD AS IT SLOWLY ACCELERATES UP TO 20-30MPH MAX. VEHICLE WAS MERGING INTO TRAFFIC FROM PARKING LOT ACCESS.
2021-01-06
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-04
- VIN: 5TFMU4FN8CX
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: HORN WILL NOT WORK WITH THE STEERING WHEEL CENTERED. IF YOU TURN THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT AND PUSHING THE HORN IT WILL WORK. TOYOTA ISSUED A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM ON 2005-2009 TACOMA BUT NOT FOR THE 2012. TOYOTA HAS KNOWN THAT THEY HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THE CLOCK SPRING THAT THEY WON'T ADDRESS ON THE 2012'S.
2020-11-07
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-05
- VIN: 5TFJU4GN9CX
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: PAINT PROBLEMS ON ALL FOUR DOORS FLAKING OFF .RECIEVING A NOTICE FOR MY CAMARY BUT NOT THE TACOMA, BOTH COLORS WERE LISTED.
2020-11-05
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-01
- VIN: 5TFJU4GN9CX
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: SUN VISOR , SPRING INSIDE VISOR BREAKS. MAKING THE VISOR HANG DOWN. WIRE HARNESS FROM AC BLOWER MOTOR, SO SOMEWHERE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT OVERHEATS AND MELTS WIRING SO THE AIR CONDITIONING STOPS WORKING.
2020-10-03
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-21
- VIN: 5TFUX4EN4CX
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: TOYOTA HAS KNOW THAT THE CLOCK SPRING HAS BEEN FAILING FOR YEARS. THEY ISSUED A RECALL FOR MODEL YEARS 2005-2009. TRUCKS IN THE MODEL YEARS 2010-2012 ARE ALSO AFFECTED. PROBLEMS - LOSS OF HORN, LOSS OF AIRBAG. OPTIONAL IF EQUIPPED - LOSS OF CRUISE CONTROL AND/OR LOSS OF RADIO CONTROLS. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD! LOSS OR HORN AND LOSS OF AIR BAGS ARE A VERY, VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION!!! THE CLOCK SPRING FAILS RANDOMLY SO YOU MIGHT NOT BE AWARE UNTIL IT IS TOO LATE!!!
2020-09-23
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-22
- VIN: 5TFUU4EN7CX
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FAILURE OF DRIVERS SIDE LEAF SPRING WITH LARGE SECTION(4-6IN) MISSING. GAVE NO NOTICE OF FAILURE PRIOR TO FAILING. FOUND WHEN CHANGING TIRES. DO NOT USE VEHICLE FOR TOWING BEYOND SPECS OR OFF ROADING. TOYOTA RECALLED PREVIOUSLY FOR THIS ISSUE UNDER SAFETY RECALL E02(E12) FOR 2005-2011 M.Y. STATING BROKEN LEAF SPRINGS COULD PUNCTURE FUEL TANK PROPAGATING IN A FIRE. TOYOTA DEALERSHIP WAS UNWILLING TO ASSIST IN REPAIR OR ADMIT FAULT DESPITE SAFETY RELATED ISSUE.
2020-09-14
WHEELS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-13
- VIN: 3TMMU4FN5CM
- Components: WHEELS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: RIGHT FRONT WHEEL SUDDENLY LOCKS FOR SEVERAL SECONDS PUTTING A DRAG ON THAT WHEEL, SLOWING THAT WHEEL DOWN. HAPPENS ON SHARP TURNS ONLY SO FAR, MOSTLY GOING DOWN HILL, ALL AT REASONABLE, SAFE SPEEDS FOR THE CURVE. DRIVER IS NOT USING THE BREAKS AT THE TIMES THIS HAS HAPPENED, AND RELEASES THE GAS AND HOLDS TIGHT TO THE STEERING WHEEL. NO DASH LIGHTS APPEAR. IT IS INCREASING IN FREQUENCY AND STARTING TO SCARE US ON OUR DEEP CLIFF CURVE ROADS. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING JUST ONCE IN AWHILE 5 YEARS, BUT IS NOW HAPPENING 2-5 TIMES EACH TIME WE DRIVE THE 15 MILE RIVER CANYON WITH TIGHT CURVES AND STEEP CLIFFS. WE ONLY KNOW WHEELS ANS BRAKE SYSTEM ARE INVOLVED, AND THE STABILITY OF THE VEHICLE.
2012 Toyota Tacoma recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 2012 Toyota Tacoma.
2017-07-03
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2011-2016 Toyota Tacoma and 4Runner vehicles equipped with accessory hood scoops installed by SET or SET dealers. The adhesive attaching the hood scoop may weaken, allowing the hood scoop to detach from the vehicle.
- Consequence: If the hood scoop detaches, it may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will mechanically fasten the scoop to the hood, free of charge. The recall began on September 1, 2017. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-954-429-2000. SET's number for this recall is SET17B.
2014-08-04
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2008-2014 FJ Cruiser and Tacoma vehicles equipped with accessory wheels and tires installed by Toyota or dealers prior to the vehicle's first sale. The affected vehicles may list incorrect spare tire size and/or cold tire inflation information on the tire placard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 110, "Tire Selection and Rims for Passenger Cars."
- Consequence: If the spare tire is inflated to the incorrect pressure provided on the placard, tire failure may occur while it is being driven on, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: For the involved vehicles, overlay stickers to correct the tire placard will either be mailed to owners or provided to dealers for placement over the incorrect information on the placard. The recall is expected to begin in September 2014. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331.
2014-02-12
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Toyota is recalling certain model year 2012 and 2013 Toyota Tacoma and Lexus RX350 vehicles and certain model year 2012 Toyota Rav4 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the brake system contains a brake actuator that adjusts the fluid pressure of each wheel cylinder. An electrical component within the actuator may experience an increased resistance resulting in the illumination of various warning lights, including those for the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system, Antilock Brake System (ABS), and Traction Control system.
- Consequence: If this occurs, these systems could become inoperative, reducing the directional control assistance, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and Toyota and Lexus dealers will update the software for the Skid Control electronic control unit, free of charge. The recall began on March 28, 2014. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
2013-10-17
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Tacoma vehicles equipped with 18" Maverick Alloy Wheels. In the affected vehicles, the spare tire requires the use of a different style of lug nut to attach it to the vehicle than the other wheels use. These lug nuts were not provided with the vehicle.
- Consequence: If the spare tire/wheel is installed on the vehicle using the lug nuts from another wheel, damage to the wheel could result and may eventually lead to a loose wheel, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will: (a) Install a Warning Label on the spare tire/wheel, (b) supply a bag containing proper spare wheel lug nuts, and (c) place an Owner's Manual Addendum in the vehicle's glove box. The recall began on January 23, 2014. Owners may contact SET at 1-954-429-2000.
2013-04-09
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: Southeast Toyota is recalling certain model year 2008 and 2010-2013 Toyota Tundra, 2010-2012 Rav4, 2012 Toyota Sequoia, 2010-2011 Toyota Corolla, 2010-2011 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser, 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser, 2010-2013 Toyota Venza, 2010-2011 Toyota 4Runner, 2010-2013 Toyota Tacoma, 2011-2012 Toyota Sienna, 2012 Toyota Prius, 2013 Scion FR-S, 2011 Scion XD, 2011 Scion XB, and 2012 Scion TC vehicles. These vehicles were sold with labels that were outside the allowable one percent of accuracy of actual weight added. Thus, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) Number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
- Consequence: An inaccurate label could lead to owners overloading their vehicles and tires. An overloaded vehicle can result in a tire failure which may result in a vehicle crash, personal injury, or property damage.
- Remedy: Southeast Toyota will notify owners and provide a corrected label with instructions concerning its installation. A small group of the affected vehicles will need additonal remedies which are still being developed. The recall began on May 28, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
2013-01-16
- Manufacturer: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
- Summary: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain models interspersed through model years 2009 through 2013 as follows: model year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4Runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4; model year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; model year 2010-2013 model year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; model year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; model year 2012 Prius V; and model year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During modification by SET to include accessories such as leather seat covers, seat heaters or headrest DVD systems, these vehicles may not have had the passenger seat occupant sensing system calibration tested. Without passing the calibration test, the occupant sensing system may not operate as designed.
- Consequence: If the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may not deploy or they may deploy inappropriately for the passenger's size and position. This could increase the risk of personal injury during the event of a vehicle crash necessitating airbag deployment.
- Remedy: Southeast Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will test the sensitivity of the occupant detection sensors, and recalibrate them as necessary. The recall began on March 21, 2013. Owners may contact Southeast Toyota at 1-800-301-6859.
2012-04-10
- Manufacturer: GULF STATES TOYOTA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: GULF STATES TOYOTA (GST) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 TACOMA TRUCKS. THE TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION PLACARD ON EACH VEHICLE CONTAINS INACCURATE SPARE TIRE SIZE AND COLD INFLATION PRESSURE INFORMATION. THUS, THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110,TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS.
- Consequence: AN INCORRECT PLACARD COULD LEAD TO IMPROPER SPARE TIRE USE OR REPLACEMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN A TIRE FAILURE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: GST WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND SEND EACH OWNER A CORRECTED PLACARD, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 5, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GULF STATES TOYOTA, INC. AT 1-713-744-3465.
Negative 2012 Toyota Tacoma car reviews
Positive 2012 Toyota Tacoma car reviews
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I can tell you that I absolutely loved my Tacoma and I am already planning on buying another one in the near future. It never let me down, and the 5-speed transmission made it quick and super fun to drive. Even with 600+ lbs of sand in the bed and summer tires, it handled Colorado weather like a champ. It truly is a fun, awesome, and reliable truck!
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I love the versatility and fuel economy of this pick up truck.
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My second Tacoma. It's been a joy to drive and I've been very satisfied with my purchase. They're great for off-road adventures, camping trips, and many other adventures. I plan on keeping it for many more years to come.
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Great to hear that you have had a good experience with your vehicle over the past 11 years! Despite a few problems, it's impressive that you can still get 22 mpg at 136,000 miles. The Tacoma is perfect for hunting as it can fit into tight spots that a full size truck would never go. It's great to hear that you plan to replace it with another Tacoma in 2 years!
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The engine is solid and overall it's a great truck. However, the leg room in the back is limited and the AC is not adequate enough, especially in hot months. Other than that, it's a good truck.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Toyota Tacoma problems:
2012 Toyota Tacoma Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
https://www.vehiclehistory.com/report/toyota/tacoma/2012
Apr 8, 2022 ... The 2012 Tacoma can last over 300,000 miles with some air pump and vibration issues. At $11,201 – 23,685 it's expensive, but worth it for the ...
MAJOR PROBLEMS 2012 V6 4.0L | Tacoma World
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/major-problems-2012-v6-4-0l.336828/
Jul 16, 2014 ... A Toyota dealership I never used it not far away so I pull in. After a couple hours they tell me they think it is bad gasoline as "it has ...
Just picked up this 2012 Tacoma with 150k - what would you do to it ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/ToyotaTacoma/comments/155rmjf/just_picked_up_this_2012_tacoma_with_150k_what/
Jul 21, 2023 ... 2012s tacos were the only one with the problem and it's excessively common. I had to chew people out at Toyota cause it was an emissions ...
Looking for a 2nd Gen Tacoma/Most Common Problems? | Tacoma ...
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/looking-for-a-2nd-gen-tacoma-most-common-problems.477449/
Feb 25, 2017 ... Rusted frames and broken leaf springs are both issues Toyota has been working with owners to resolve but need to be inspected properly.
2012 Toyota Tacoma Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2012-toyota-tacoma/problems
Top 2012 Toyota Tacoma Problems · Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages. 255 people have reported this · Amber Running/Parking Lights ...
Other years of Toyota Tacoma
Are you having problems with your 2012 Toyota Tacoma?
Percival Medhurst 2024-09-26
I noticed that my truck has been experiencing some hesitation and stalling, which can be quite dangerous when driving in traffic. I have already notified Toyota about this issue, but unfortunately, their response was not satisfactory as they suggested driving more aggressively, which is not safe. It is quite unsettling when you try to accelerate, and there is no response from the gas pedal. Additionally, the gas mileage of my current truck is less than 20 mpg, which is much lower than my previous Tacomas that had a marginal gas mileage of 25 mpg. I hope Toyota can improve their standards and live up to their reputation. I have also noticed that the doors of the truck are quite tinny, and the dealer maintenance is not up to par. I am hesitant to purchase another Toyota unless they make significant improvements. However, I did find a good Tacoma model from 2007 that has good gas mileage and is reliable. It is unfortunate that Toyota is not listening to their customers and relying on their past reputation instead of making better vehicles. I believe that Toyota should focus on engineering and improving gas mileage, rather than adding unnecessary electronic features. By doing so, they can produce a good and fuel-efficient vehicle that customers want.
Keeley Purdy 2024-06-12
Although the Tacoma is known for its reliability, my personal experience with the 2012 regular cab 4WD with bucket seats was not pleasant. As a tall person, I found the headroom to be tight and the seat could not be lowered, making it uncomfortable to drive. The ride was also rough and bumpy, which made it difficult to enjoy the driving experience. While the Tacoma may be a good option for those who prioritize reliability and don't mind a rough ride, I ultimately decided to switch to a new Colorado for a smoother and more comfortable driving experience.
Caden Lemke 2024-05-27
I've owned this vehicle for about 10 months now and unfortunately, I have become increasingly frustrated with it each time I drive it. I have noticed that it lacks both power and fuel economy, which is disappointing. I previously owned an FJ which had plenty of power, so this vehicle feels quite underpowered in comparison. Additionally, I have noticed that it only gets 15-17 mpg, even when I drive it conservatively. I own the TRD crew cab model, but unfortunately, it does not come with heated mirrors and many of the interior switches are not back-lit, which can be inconvenient when driving at night or in cold weather. Recently, I received an ENTUNE update on a USB drive, but unfortunately, none of the functions are working despite my phone showing a good Bluetooth connection. Overall, I have had some frustrations with this vehicle, but I hope to find some solutions to these issues soon.
Preston Nader 2024-04-19
I own two Tacomas and I am very pleased with both of them. However, I have noticed an issue with the paint on the roof and hood of both my 1999 and 2012 models, as well as on many other Tacomas on the road. In comparison, the paint on my 2008 Honda Civic is much better. I really like my Toyotas, but I hope that something can be done about the paint. I would love to buy another Tacoma, but I am hesitant if I will have to repaint it every five years.
Jamie Abshire 2024-02-16
I have a 2012 double cab v6 TRD Off-Road, 100% stock. Despite being my first Toyota, I have been experiencing major drive line vibration since it arrived by transporter. I have been to my local dealer three times, but unfortunately they have been unable to fix the issue. However, I am in contact with Toyota USA and I am confident that we will find a solution. While researching this issue on TacomaWorld, I discovered that many 2012 models are experiencing the same problem, which is disappointing. If you are considering purchasing this model, I recommend test driving it from a dead stop through 30mph, preferably uphill, to ensure that the issue is not present. Although Toyota's modern day quality may be sub-par, they are currently the only mid-size truck with a v6, 4x4, double cab w/ manual trans option. It is worth noting that the manual transmission is made by Aisin.