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Toyota Tacoma 2005–2015 problems by year and mileage

2nd generation · N220-N270 (shares architecture with 4Runner N210/N280 and FJ Cruiser)

Which year is yours? Tap it to see what breaks on it.

The 2005 Toyota Tacoma

Close
Median failure report
82,000 mi
Complaints filed
707
Recalls naming this year
10

Most reported on the 2005

  1. Body structure260 reports · median 109,000 mi
  2. Suspension137 reports · median 102,000 mi
  3. Throttle and speed control93 reports · median 56,000 mi

Recall areas Suspension — rear · Seat belts · Air bags — frontal
Check the VIN at NHTSA

The 2006 Toyota Tacoma

Close
Median failure report
71,000 mi
Complaints filed
782
Recalls naming this year
11

Most reported on the 2006

  1. Body structure242 reports · median 93,000 mi
  2. Suspension154 reports · median 95,000 mi
  3. Throttle and speed control147 reports · median 38,000 mi

Recall areas Seats — front assembly · Suspension — rear · Seat belts
Check the VIN at NHTSA

The 2007 Toyota Tacoma

Close
Median failure report
62,000 mi
Complaints filed
541
Recalls naming this year
10

Most reported on the 2007

  1. Suspension118 reports · median 96,000 mi
  2. Body structure109 reports · median 88,000 mi
  3. Throttle and speed control108 reports · median 24,000 mi

Recall areas Seats — front assembly · Suspension — rear · Seat belts
Check the VIN at NHTSA

The 2008 Toyota Tacoma

Close
Median failure report
57,000 mi
Complaints filed
448
Recalls naming this year
11

Most reported on the 2008

  1. Suspension124 reports · median 78,000 mi
  2. Throttle and speed control85 reports · median 19,000 mi
  3. Body structure79 reports · median 118,000 mi

Recall areas Seats — front assembly · Suspension — rear · Equipment — other
Check the VIN at NHTSA

The 2009 Toyota Tacoma

Close
Median failure report
36,000 mi
Complaints filed
519
Recalls naming this year
13

Most reported on the 2009

  1. Suspension119 reports · median 79,000 mi
  2. Exterior lighting105 reports · median 45,000 mi
  3. Transmission and driveline75 reports · median 2,000 mi

Recall areas Seats — front assembly · Suspension — rear · Equipment — other
Check the VIN at NHTSA

The 2010 Toyota Tacoma

Close
Median failure report
40,000 mi
Complaints filed
294
Recalls naming this year
13

Most reported on the 2010

  1. Suspension95 reports · median 45,000 mi
  2. Throttle and speed control34 reports · median 5,000 mi
  3. Body structure30 reports

Recall areas Seats — front assembly · Suspension — rear · Equipment — other
Check the VIN at NHTSA

The 2011 Toyota Tacoma

Close
Median failure report
65,000 mi
Complaints filed
186
Recalls naming this year
9

Most reported on the 2011

  1. Suspension60 reports · median 96,000 mi
  2. Exterior lighting32 reports
  3. Electrical system22 reports

Recall areas Equipment · Seats — front assembly · Suspension — rear
Check the VIN at NHTSA

The 2012 Toyota Tacoma

Close
Median failure report
57,000 mi
Complaints filed
295
Recalls naming this year
7

Most reported on the 2012

  1. Engine122 reports · median 60,000 mi
  2. Fuel and propulsion system52 reports · median 59,000 mi
  3. Problems owners could not categorise43 reports · median 58,000 mi

Recall areas Equipment · Equipment — other · Electronic stability control (esc)
Check the VIN at NHTSA

The 2013 Toyota Tacoma

Close
Median failure report
40,000 mi
Complaints filed
125
Recalls naming this year
6

Most reported on the 2013

  1. Transmission and driveline22 reports
  2. Brakes16 reports
  3. Steering14 reports

Recall areas Equipment · Equipment — other · Electronic stability control (esc)
Check the VIN at NHTSA

The 2014 Toyota Tacoma

Close
Median failure report
28,000 mi
Complaints filed
93
Recalls naming this year
4

Most reported on the 2014

  1. Body structure20 reports
  2. Brakes17 reports
  3. Transmission and driveline13 reports

Recall areas Equipment · Equipment — other · Engine
Check the VIN at NHTSA

The 2015 Toyota Tacoma

Close
Median failure report
10,000 mi
Complaints filed
101
Recalls naming this year
4

Most reported on the 2015

  1. Problems owners could not categorise29 reports
  2. Body structure15 reports
  3. Engine12 reports

Recall areas Equipment · Wheels · Equipment — other
Check the VIN at NHTSA

Tiles: each year’s median failure mileage. Latest: the 2005; earliest: the 2015, and the 2005 is 10 years older (part of the gap is age).

The short answer

“Is the 2005–2015 Toyota Tacoma reliable?”

Median of reported failures
58,000 mi
90% of reports came by
145,000 mi
Reports with mileage
3,016
Recalls
28

Most reported

  1. Suspension20.9% of complaints · median 85,000 mi
  2. Body structure20.8% of complaints · median 95,000 mi
  3. Throttle and speed control14.1% of complaints · median 26,000 mi

When each system fails ↓

Documented problems

What each one is ↓

Owners filed 4,091 complaints with NHTSA about the 2005–2015 Toyota Tacoma; the suspension leads with 20.9% of them, and half of the 3,016 that record an odometer reading came by 58,000 miles — complaints, not a failure rate.

No single peak: the middle half runs 20,000 to 100,000 miles.

Before-you-buy checklist ↓At your mileage ↓Check this VIN — NHTSA ↗

How many miles does a 2005–2015 Toyota Tacoma last?

On the 2005–2015 Toyota Tacoma, half of the 3,016 complaints that record an odometer reading were filed by 58,000 miles and 90% by 145,000 miles (why that is not a lifespan).

268 reports came in past 150,000 miles and 69 past 200,000 — each one proof that a Tacoma reached that mileage, not that it failed there.

Figure 1 · Toyota Tacoma 2005–2015 · 3,016 reports with mileage

Mileage at failure

5,000-mile bins, 0 to 200,000 miles, linear scale; tallest bar 405 complaints

Mileage at failure, Toyota Tacoma 2005–2015Histogram of 3,016 owner-reported failures by mileage, in 5,000-mile bins from 0 to 200,000. The tallest bin is 0 to 5,000 miles with 405 complaints, 13.4 percent of the total. No single peak: the middle half runs 20,000 to 100,000 miles. A further 69 complaints, 2.3 percent, were reported above 200,000 miles and are shown as a separate detached bar. Median mileage at failure is 58,000.
  • Rest of the range
  • Median
  • 200,000+ — 69 complaints (2.3%), plotted separately
10%
2,500
25%
20,000
Median
58,000
75%
100,000
90%
145,000
Show the numbers
Complaints by mileage bin
MileageComplaintsShare
0–5,00040513.4%
5,000–10,0001434.7%
10,000–15,0001053.5%
15,000–20,000993.3%
20,000–25,000872.9%
25,000–30,000792.6%
30,000–35,0001053.5%
35,000–40,000943.1%
40,000–45,000913.0%
45,000–50,0001093.6%
50,000–55,0001143.8%
55,000–60,0001013.3%
60,000–65,0001123.7%
65,000–70,0001043.4%
70,000–75,000973.2%
75,000–80,0001033.4%
80,000–85,000682.3%
85,000–90,0001013.3%
90,000–95,000732.4%
95,000–100,000712.4%
100,000–105,000872.9%
105,000–110,000571.9%
110,000–115,000581.9%
115,000–120,000331.1%
120,000–125,000491.6%
125,000–130,000361.2%
130,000–135,000581.9%
135,000–140,000371.2%
140,000–145,000361.2%
145,000–150,000361.2%
150,000–155,000411.4%
155,000–160,000150.5%
160,000–165,000351.2%
165,000–170,000200.7%
170,000–175,000230.8%
175,000–180,000160.5%
180,000–185,000130.4%
185,000–190,000120.4%
190,000–195,000120.4%
195,000–200,000120.4%
200,000+692.3%

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

How to read these figures

Common Tacoma problems, and when they happen

Figure 2 · Toyota Tacoma 2005–2015

When each system fails

Bar: middle half of reports · notch: median · proportional (log) scale (how to read it)

  1. Transmission and driveline394 reportsmedian 18,000middle half 1,500–63,000
  2. Throttle and speed control578 reportsmedian 26,000middle half 6,500–61,000
  3. Problems owners could not categorise315 reportsmedian 70,000middle half 35,000–116,000
  4. Airbag system279 reportsmedian 76,000middle half 50,000–108,000
  5. Suspension854 reportsmedian 85,000middle half 50,000–118,000
  6. Steering308 reportsmedian 85,000middle half 55,000–130,000
  7. Body structure850 reportsmedian 95,000middle half 56,000–138,000
  • Your odometer, once entered below

Ordered by median mileage, earliest first.

All systems in a table
Complaints by vehicle system
SystemComplaintsShareMedian25–75%
Suspension85420.9%85,00050,000–118,000
Body structure85020.8%95,00056,000–138,000
Throttle and speed control57814.1%26,0006,500–61,000
Transmission and driveline3949.6%18,0001,500–63,000
Problems owners could not categorise3157.7%70,00035,000–116,000
Steering3087.5%85,00055,000–130,000
Airbag system2796.8%76,00050,000–108,000
Engine2165.3%62,00045,000–94,000
Electrical system2075.1%57,00024,000–91,000
Exterior lighting2014.9%47,00035,000–66,000

Known problems with the 2005–2015 Tacoma

Frame / Structure 2005–2010

Frame corrosion again. A November 2016 class settlement required Toyota to inspect and, where necessary, replace rusted frames on 2005-2010 model year Tacomas, with a 12-year inspection program.

Suspension 2005–2010

Rear leaf spring leaf fracture; a broken leaf can move rearward and puncture the fuel tank, creating a fire and loss-of-control risk. Toyota recall coverage on 2005-2010 trucks.

Suspension 2005–2008

Front lower ball joint separation recall covering the early second generation.

Steering

Steering intermediate shaft and rack clunk/looseness, a very high-frequency complaint across the generation.

Before you buy a 2005–2015 Tacoma: the 3-minute check

Generated from 3,016 mileage-tagged complaints, 28 recall campaigns, 4 documented problem areas.

  1. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 28 campaigns cover this generation.
  2. Ask for hydraulic brake circuit repair records. Reports on this area come at a median of 10,000 miles — on any car this age it already happened or never will; the question is whether it was fixed under warranty.
  3. Check frame / structure on 2005–2010 cars. What each looks like: Known problems.
  4. Check suspension on 2005–2010 cars.
  5. Check suspension on 2005–2008 cars.
  6. Years differ here: from 93 to 782 complaints a year — compare them by model year.
  7. End with a pre-purchase inspection of this car.

Tacoma problems by mileage: where your car sits

Type your odometer, or read the table.

earlier past most reports · in window inside the middle half · later before most · reports, not your odds (how to read)

Where each system’s reports sit against common odometer readings
SystemMiddle half of reports, miAt 60k mi51% belowAt 90k mi70% belowAt 120k mi83% belowAt 150k mi91% belowAt 200k mi98% below
Suspension50,000–118,000in windowin windowearlierearlierearlier
Body structure56,000–138,000in windowin windowin windowearlierearlier
Throttle and speed control6,500–61,000in windowearlierearlierearlierearlier
Transmission and driveline1,500–63,000in windowearlierearlierearlierearlier
Problems owners could not categorise35,000–116,000in windowin windowearlierearlierearlier
Steering55,000–130,000in windowin windowin windowearlierearlier
Airbag system50,000–108,000in windowin windowearlierearlierearlier

Figure 3 · Toyota Tacoma 2005–2015 · 3,016 reports with mileage

Share of reports below each mileage

Steps at bin edges (how to read it)

Cumulative share of reports by mileage, Toyota Tacoma 2005–2015Of 3,016 reports that record mileage, the share filed below each odometer reading, rising in steps at each 5,000-mile bin edge. 51 percent below 60,000 miles. 70 percent below 90,000 miles. 83 percent below 120,000 miles. 91 percent below 150,000 miles. 98 percent below 200,000 miles. Median 58,000 miles.
  • 60,000 mi — 51% of reports below
  • 90,000 mi — 70% of reports below
  • 120,000 mi — 83% of reports below
  • 150,000 mi — 91% of reports below
  • 200,000 mi — 98% of reports below
  • Median (the 50% line)
  • Your odometer, once entered

Linear axis, same as Figure 1.

2005–2015 Toyota Tacoma recalls (28)

NHTSA records 28 recall campaigns covering vehicles in this generation (what a recall is).

The campaigns cluster around equipment (9), the airbag system (4), seats (3) (why one area can repeat).

Summaries below shorten NHTSA’s own wording.

  1. Jul 2017 · 2011–2015 · EquipmentIf the hood scoop detaches, it may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The defect. 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…

    What can happen. If the hood scoop detaches, it may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. 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.…

    NHTSA campaign 17V-425 (2017-07-03).

  2. Jun 2016 · 2006–2011 · SeatsIf damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.

    The defect. Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 RAV4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011…

    What can happen. If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.

    The free fix. SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact…

    NHTSA campaign 16V-396 (2016-06-02).

  3. Feb 2015 · 2015 · WheelsImproperly inflated tires may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.

    The defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2015 Tacoma pickup trucks manufactured August 7, 2014, to December 22, 2014. The affected vehicles may have had their tires and wheels changed to TRD PRO accessory tires and…

    What can happen. Improperly inflated tires may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.

    The free fix. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will send a revised tire placard with correct tire size and inflation information to owners, free of charge. The recall began March 13, 2015. Owners may contact…

    NHTSA campaign 15V-099 (2015-02-23).

  4. Dec 2014 · 2014–2015 · EquipmentAccessories that detach from a vehicle may result in a vehicle crash and/or personal injury.

    The defect. Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner, Tacoma, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, RAV4, Scion FRS, and XB vehicles. The affected vehicles may have accessories installed by SET, such as running boards or other…

    What can happen. Accessories that detach from a vehicle may result in a vehicle crash and/or personal injury.

    The free fix. SET will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and tighten the affected bolts, free of charge. The recall began February 23, 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's…

    NHTSA campaign 14V-828 (2014-12-30).

  5. Nov 2014 · 2006–2011 · SeatsDamage to the seat heater wiring could cause the wires to short, increasing the risk of the seat burning and…

    The defect. Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4…

    What can happen. Damage to the seat heater wiring could cause the wires to short, increasing the risk of the seat burning and causing personal injury to the occupant.

    The free fix. SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the heaters with copper strand heating elements and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory, free of charge. The recall is expected…

    NHTSA campaign 14V-743 (2014-11-19).

  6. Oct 2014 · 2015 · EquipmentAn incorrect label may result in the vehicle being overloaded, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (Gulf States) is recalling certain model year 2015 Toyota Tacoma vehicles manufactured September 2, 2014, to October 15, 2014. The affected vehicles may contain an incorrect Load Carrying Capacity Modification Label. As a result…

    What can happen. An incorrect label may result in the vehicle being overloaded, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Gulf States has notified owners, and dealers will install an accurate label, free of charge. The recall began December 1, 2014. Owners may contact Gulf States customer service at 1-800-444-1074.

    NHTSA campaign 14V-663 (2014-10-22).

  7. Sep 2014 · 2005–2011 · SuspensionIf the fuel tank leaks fuel from being punctured, there is an increased risk of a fire.

    The defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2005-2011 Toyota Tacoma Pre-Runner and 4x4 vehicles manufactured September 14, 2009, to October 11, 2010. In the affected vehicles, one of the leaf springs may fracture due to…

    What can happen. If the fuel tank leaks fuel from being punctured, there is an increased risk of a fire.

    The free fix. Toyota will notify owners and dealers will install new rear leaf spring assemblies. The recall began on January 29, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331.

    NHTSA campaign 14V-604 (2014-09-29).

  8. Aug 2014 · 2008–2014 · EquipmentIf the spare tire is inflated to the incorrect pressure provided on the placard, tire failure may occur while…

    The defect. 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…

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 14V-475 (2014-08-04).

  9. Apr 2014 · 2009–2010 · Air BagsIf the FFC is damaged, connectivity to the driver's air bag module could be lost and the air bag deactivated.

    The defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 RAV4, 2006-2010 Yaris, 2008-2010 Highlander, and 2009-2010 Tacoma, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and General Motors Pontiac Vibe vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the steering column assembly contains electrical…

    What can happen. If the FFC is damaged, connectivity to the driver's air bag module could be lost and the air bag deactivated. The failure of the driver's air bag to deploy in the event of a crash that typically…

    The free fix. Toyota will notify the Toyota vehicle owners, and General Motors will notify the Pontiac Vibe owners. Toyota sent owners an interim notification letter in May 2014 to advise owners of the recall.…

    NHTSA campaign 14V-168 (2014-04-09).

  10. Feb 2014 · 2012–2013 · Electronic Stability Control (esc)If this occurs, these systems could become inoperative, reducing the directional control assistance…

    The defect. 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…

    What can happen. If this occurs, these systems could become inoperative, reducing the directional control assistance, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 14V-054 (2014-02-12).

  11. Nov 2013 · 2013–2014 · EngineIf the valve springs break, the engine could fail and stall while the vehicle is being driven, increasing the…

    The defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Tacoma vehicles manufactured July 1, 2013, through October 11, 2013. The engines of the affected vehicles contain valve springs that may break over time.

    What can happen. If the valve springs break, the engine could fail and stall while the vehicle is being driven, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the valve springs, free of charge. The recall began on November 27, 2013. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

    NHTSA campaign 13V-557 (2013-11-07).

  12. Oct 2013 · 2012–2013 · TiresIf the spare tire/wheel is installed on the vehicle using the lug nuts from another wheel, damage to the…

    The defect. 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…

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 13V-494 (2013-10-17).

  13. Aug 2013 · 2005–2011 · Seat BeltsIf the seat belt pre-tensioner detaches from the seat belt assembly, the seat belt pre-tensioner will not…

    The defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 Tacoma Access Cab vehicles manufactured September 14, 2004, through March 29, 2010; and model year 2011 Tacoma Access Cab vehicles manufactured July 1, 2010, through September 7, 2011. If the access doors are…

    What can happen. If the seat belt pre-tensioner detaches from the seat belt assembly, the seat belt pre-tensioner will not perform as designed, increasing the risk of injury in a severe crash.

    The free fix. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the seat belt assemblies. Based on the inspection, the seat belt assembly will be replaced or new pre-tensioner screws will be installed with…

    NHTSA campaign 13V-337 (2013-08-07).

  14. Apr 2013 · 2010–2013 · EquipmentAn inaccurate label could lead to owners overloading their vehicles and tires.

    The defect. 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…

    What can happen. 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…

    The free fix. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 13V-123 (2013-04-09).

  15. Jan 2013 · 2009–2012 · SeatsIf the front passenger seat occupant sensing system is out of calibration, the front passenger airbags may…

    The defect. 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…

    What can happen. 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…

    The free fix. 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…

    NHTSA campaign 13V-014 (2013-01-16).

  16. Apr 2012 · 2012 · EquipmentAn incorrect placard could lead to improper spare tire use or replacement which could result in a tire…

    The defect. 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…

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 12V-158 (2012-04-10).

  17. Mar 2012 · 2005–2009 · Air BagsIn the event of a crash, the driver’s side air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of personal injury.

    The defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Tacoma vehicles, manufactured from september 14, 2004, through august 29, 2008. Over time, steering wheel vibration may damage the spiral cable assembly (clockspring) that powers the driver’s air bag module. If…

    What can happen. In the event of a crash, the driver’s side air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of personal injury.

    The free fix. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the spiral cable assembly, free of charge. An interim letter is expected to be mailed to owners during april 2012. Owners may contact Toyota at…

    NHTSA campaign 12V-092 (2012-03-07).

  18. Mar 2011 · 2008–2011 · TiresFailure to warn of tire deflations is a non-compliance with fmvss 138 and could lead to tire failure…

    The defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2008 through 2011 fj cruiser, land cruiser, Tacoma, sequoia and tundra vehicles for failing to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 138, "Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)." When…

    What can happen. Failure to warn of tire deflations is a non-compliance with fmvss 138 and could lead to tire failure increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. For the land cruiser, sequoia, Tacoma and tundra vehicles, the dealer will re-calibrate the tire pressure monitoring system on affected vehicles and install an updated tire and loading information…

    NHTSA campaign 11V-148 (2011-03-04).

  19. Feb 2010 · 2010 · Power TrainThis may result in a loss of vehicle control increasing the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2010 Toyota Tacoma pickup trucks. The propeller shaft may develop cracks during the manufacturing process. Over time, the cracks may eventually lead to the separation of the propeller shaft.

    What can happen. This may result in a loss of vehicle control increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the front propeller shaft on affected vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on march 22, 2010. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

    NHTSA campaign 10V-042 (2010-02-18).

  20. Feb 2010 · 2005–2010 · EquipmentA driver may overload a vehicle which may increase the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Southeast Toyota is recalling certain model year 2005-2011 passenger vehicles for failing to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 110, "Tire selection and rims." These vehicles were sold without the requisite load carrying…

    What can happen. A driver may overload a vehicle which may increase the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will mail to consumers the corrected label or the customer will have the option for dealers to install the label free of charge. The safety recall began on may 27, 2010. Owners may contact…

    NHTSA campaign 10V-036 (2010-02-03).

  21. Feb 2010 · 2005–2010 · EquipmentThis does not meet the standard requirements.

    The defect. Gulf states Toyota is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 vehicles for failing to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 110, "Tire selection and rims." These vehicles were sold between september 1, 2005 and june 2, 2008…

    What can happen. This does not meet the standard requirements.

    The free fix. Dealers will mail to consumers the corrected label or the customer will have the option for dealers to install the label free of charge. Dealers will also correct the owner's manual. The safety…

    NHTSA campaign 10V-035 (2010-02-03).

  22. Oct 2009 · 2005–2010 · Vehicle Speed ControlA stuck open accelerator pedal may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop the…

    The defect. Toyota is recalling certain model year 2004-2010 passenger vehicles. The accelerator pedal can get stuck in the wide open position due to its being trapped by an unsecured or incompatible driver's floor mat.

    What can happen. A stuck open accelerator pedal may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death.

    The free fix. Toyota filed an amended defect report on november 25, 2009, stating that dealers will modify the accelerator pedal and, on certain vehicles, alter the shape of the floor surface under the pedal.…

    NHTSA campaign 09V-388 (2009-10-05).

  23. Jun 2009 · 2005–2009 · EquipmentIncorrect load carrying capacity modification labels could result in the vehicle being overloaded, increasing…

    The defect. Toyota is recalling 27,080 model year 2005 through 2010 passenger cars built from september 1, 2005 to may 4, 2009. These vehicles were not equipped with load carrying capacity modification labels which fails to conform with the requirements of federal motor…

    What can happen. Incorrect load carrying capacity modification labels could result in the vehicle being overloaded, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Toyota will notify owners and provide them with a new, accurate label to be installed over the inaccurate label free of charge. The safety recall began on august 18, 2009. Owners may contact Toyota…

    NHTSA campaign 09V-223 (2009-06-15).

  24. Jul 2007 · 2007 · Power TrainThe front side of the rear propeller shaft could separate at the joint and come into contact with the road…

    The defect. On certain pickup trucks equipped with four wheel drive, a section of the rear propeller shaft may have been improperly cast.

    What can happen. The front side of the rear propeller shaft could separate at the joint and come into contact with the road surface which could result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the possibility of a…

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the rear propeller shaft with a new one free of charge. The recall began on august 1, 2007. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

    NHTSA campaign 07V-324 (2007-07-26).

  25. Apr 2006 · 2005–2006 · Air BagsThis may increase the risk of injury to the occupant in the involved seating position in the event of a crash.

    The defect. On certain vehicles, due to improper assembly of the air bag inflator, which is used in the side air bag, the curtain shield air bag, and the knee air bag assembly, some inflators were produced with an insufficient amount of the heating agents necessary for…

    What can happen. This may increase the risk of injury to the occupant in the involved seating position in the event of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the specific srs air bag. The recall began on april 6, 2006. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-888-270-9371, scion at 1-866-548-1851, or Lexus at 1-800-255-3987.

    NHTSA campaign 06V-096 (2006-04-03).

  26. Mar 2006 · 2006 · TiresIf the vehicle is operated in this condition, there is a possibility that a bulge may be formed on the…

    The defect. On certain pickup trucks, the bead of the tire may be damaged due to improper assembly of the tires onto the wheels.

    What can happen. If the vehicle is operated in this condition, there is a possibility that a bulge may be formed on the sidewall and air may leak from the area of the damaged bead and a crash could occur.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect the tires and replace if necessary free of charge. The recall began on march 27, 2006. Owners may contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.

    NHTSA campaign 06V-061 (2006-03-02).

  27. Jun 2005 · 2005 · Air BagsIn this condition, the seat position and seat belt buckle sensor may not function as designed, affecting the…

    The defect. On certain regular cab pickup trucks equipped with a bench seat, the seat position and seat belt buckle sensor connector pins are incorrectly positioned due to a wire harness manufacturing process error.

    What can happen. In this condition, the seat position and seat belt buckle sensor may not function as designed, affecting the adaptive air bag deployment, which if the vehicle is involved in a crash, could result in…

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect the seat position and seat belt fastening condition sensor connector. An additional sub-wire harness will be installed to correct the connector pin manufacturing error, if…

    NHTSA campaign 05V-302 (2005-06-28).

  28. Feb 2005 · 2005 · Parking BrakeThis condition could allow the vehicle to roll if the transmission is not placed into the "park" position and…

    The defect. On certain pickup trucks equipped with an automatic transmission, there is a possibility that the parking brake pedal cable lock nut may not have been tightened to the proper torque specification. In this condition, the lock nut may loosen and come off, which…

    What can happen. This condition could allow the vehicle to roll if the transmission is not placed into the "park" position and the vehicle is parked on a slope, thus raising the possibility of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect and tighten the parking brake pedal cable lock nut to the proper torque specification free of charge. The recall began on march 3, 2005. Owners may contact Toyota at…

    NHTSA campaign 05V-050 (2005-02-11).

Crashes, fires and injuries owners reported

Out of 4,091 complaints against this generation, owners also reported:

Crashes
321 (7.8%)
Fires
66
Injury reports
119
Fatality reports
6

Self-reported and overlapping (how to read these).

Tacoma problems by model year

The 2006 drew the most complaints of this generation, 782, most of them about body structure, and the 2014 the fewest, 93. A typical year drew about 295.

That makes the 2006 stand out at roughly 2.7 times a typical year (what a yearly count can and cannot say).

Complaints by model year
YearComplaintsWith mileageMedian milesMost reportedRecalls
200570753382,000Body structure (260)10
200678259271,000Body structure (242)11
200754138762,000Suspension (118)10
200844831357,000Suspension (124)11
200951937836,000Suspension (119)13
201029419140,000Suspension (95)13
201118613065,000Suspension (60)9
201229526157,000Engine (122)7
20131259840,000Transmission and driveline (22)6
2014937028,000Body structure (20)4
20151016310,000Problems owners could not categorise (29)4

What Tacoma owners reported

The contact owns a 2008 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at an independent shop for new tires, a certified mechanic inspected the vehicle and informed the contact that the subframe was severely rusted and the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The mechanic advised that the subframe required…

2008 · 170,000 miles · Body structure

The contact owns a 2008 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while taking the vehicle to a service center for a tire replacement, the contact was informed that the entire rear sub frame was extremely rusted. The mechanic informed the contact that the tires could not be replaced because the vehicle was unsafe to…

2008 · 165,000 miles · Body structure

The contact owns a 2010 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in for inspection, the mechanic informed the contact that the entire subframe was rusted. The contact was advised that the vehicle was unsafe to drive due to the rust on the subframe. The cause of the failure was not yet determined.…

2010 · 49,000 miles · Body structure

The contact owns a 2011 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that over time the horn intermittently became inoperable; however, the horn operated while in the middle of making a turn. The contact was concerned about the failure because the horn and the air bag in the steering wheel were connected by the clockspring. No…

2011 · 88,000 miles · Airbag system

Built from 3,016 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-10-20 · open data · how it is built

Other Tacoma generations

Other midsize pickups from the same years