The short answer
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific model year and generation. Long-term owners of older generations (e.g., 2003 with the 3.4L V6) report high satisfaction with durability and ease of maintenance, with vehicles reaching high mileage (over 250,000 miles) with proper care.
Power
Fuel (combined)
What owners say
Overview
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific model year and generation. Long-term owners of older generations (e.g., 2003 with the 3.4L V6) report high satisfaction with durability and ease of maintenance, with vehicles reaching high mileage (over 250,000 miles) with
Best version
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim or version for the latest generation. For the prior generation (2016-2022), the TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport trims are mentioned positively for their handling and capability
Known issues
• For 2016-2017 Models:, For 2024-2026 Models:
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Tacoma II Access Cab2004–2015808 complaints · 16 recallsHigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): structure (217) · engine (134) · unknown or other (103)
Overview
Toyota Tacoma (2nd generation, 2004-2015)
Overall Sentiment
Owners of the 2nd generation Tacoma express strong affection for the truck, frequently calling it the "peak Tacoma" and praising the 4.0L V6 engine as solid and reliable. The most common criticisms center on the uncomfortable seating position and seats, which multiple owners describe as a significant design flaw, as well as the truck's poor fuel economy, typically cited in the 16-19 mpg range. Late-model owners (2012-2015, sometimes called "2.5 gen") are particularly enthusiastic, with several reporting high mileage (200k+) and trouble-free operation. Early 2nd gen models (2005-2006) are noted as having some quality issues compared to the previous generation.
Sentiment Confidence Level
High
Frequently Mentioned Competitors
Nissan Frontier, Honda Ridgeline, 1st gen Toyota Tundra, 1st gen Tacoma, 3rd gen Tacoma, Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado
Positioning vs Competitors
Owners position the 2nd gen Tacoma as the most reliable and durable option in the midsize truck class, though they acknowledge it commands a significant price premium on the used market. The Nissan Frontier is frequently recommended as a "sleeper option" — nearly as reliable but considerably cheaper. The Honda Ridgeline is described as better for those who don't really need a truck, offering a smoother ride and more car-like comfort, with the Tacoma only being superior for towing or off-road capability. Compared to the 1st gen Tundra, the Tacoma is seen as more maneuverable and comfortable, though the Tundra offers more interior space and a V8 option. Against the 3rd gen Tacoma, owners note the 2nd gen has a better engine for truck work but the 3rd gen is quieter and more comfortable on long drives.
Best Version According to Owners
The 2012-2015 model years (the "2.5 gen" refresh) are widely considered the best version of this generation, with owners specifically praising the 2013 and 2014 SR5 and TRD Off-Road trims with the 4.0L V6. One owner calls 2011 the best year, noting that 2012 models received a smog pump that "continually fails." The 4.0L 1GR-FE engine is repeatedly praised as fantastic and solid, with one owner noting it was used in the 4Runner until recently.
Recommended Configurations
Owners recommend the 4.0L V6 with either the manual or automatic transmission, with several specifically praising the 2013-2015 SR5 and TRD Off-Road trims. The 2.7L four-cylinder with the 4-speed automatic is also mentioned positively, with one owner noting it retains a transmission dipstick and achieves 21-22 mpg commuting. The 2012 model year is specifically cautioned against due to the problematic smog pump. Owners also recommend checking for frame rust, particularly in northern/salt-belt states.
General Recommendations
This generation is recommended for buyers who prioritize reliability and longevity over comfort and fuel economy. Owners suggest looking for low-mileage examples, as these trucks last well beyond 200k miles with proper maintenance. Model years 2009 and later are preferred due to cosmetic enhancements and fewer early-generation quality issues. Buyers should thoroughly inspect the frame for rust, especially in salt-belt regions, as frame rot has forced some owners to sell their trucks. The 2012 model year's smog pump issue should be investigated before purchase. Owners also note the uncomfortable seating position should be test-driven extensively before committing.
Reported Issues
Remarks
Owners frequently describe the 2nd gen Tacoma as having a cult following, which drives used prices significantly higher than comparable trucks. The 2015 TRD Pro is noted as ultra-rare. Several owners mention the 4.0L V6 engine was so well-regarded that Toyota continued using it in the 4Runner for years after this generation ended. The truck's seating position is a recurring complaint that some owners describe as a dealbreaker, with one owner selling a 2013 after just one year due to discomfort. Analysis based on approximately 18 substantive owner discussions about this generation.
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 138 | 4 | power train |
| 2023 | 48 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 85 | 1 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2015 | 100 | 4 | unknown or other |
| 2012 | 294 | 7 | engine |
| 2004 | 414 | 5 | structure |
| 2000 | 222 | 5 | structure |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices30 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2024 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 24V548000
Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain Toyota 2023 GR Supra, 2024 4 Runner, Corolla, Grand Highlander, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Tacoma, Tacoma Hybrid, 2023-2024 BZ4X, Corolla Cross Hybrid, GR Corolla, GR86, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, Prius Prime, Sequoia Hybrid, Tundra, Tund
2024 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 25V058000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Tacoma 4-wheel drive vehicles. The rear brake hoses can be damaged if mud and dirt builds up inside the rear wheels. This can result in a brake fluid leak.
2024 · electrical system: instrument cluster/panelcampaign 25V595000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Toyota Venza, 2023-2025 RAV4 Prime, RAV4, Highlander, GR Corolla, Crown, 2024-2025 Lexus TX, LS, Toyota Tacoma, Grand Highlander, and 2025 Lexus RX, Toyota Crown Signia, Camry, RAV 4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and 4 Runner vehicles. Due to an
2024 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V179000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Toyota Tundra, Tacoma Hybrid, Tacoma, RAV4 Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, Lexus GX550, 2024-2026 Tundra Hybrid, 2025 Sequoia Hybrid, Crown Signia, Grand Highlander, Lexus TX500 Hybrid, Lexus NX350 Hybrid, 2025-2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid, a
2023 · child seat:vehicle latch anchorcampaign 22V520000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Tacoma vehicles. One or more of the individual welds in the upper child seat anchors may be insufficient. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint
2023 · steering:columncampaign 23V480000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, 2023 Lexus RX350, RX350 Hybrid, RX500 Hybrid, 2023-2024 Lexus NX250, NX350, and NX350 Hybrid vehicles. An electrical connection inside the steering column's s
2023 · power train:axle assemblycampaign 24V152000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturer (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Tacoma vehicles. The axle shaft sub-assembly may separate from the axle housing due to debris causing improperly secured fasteners.
2023 · steering:columncampaign 25V040000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, Lexus RX350, 2023-2024 NX250, and NX350 vehicles that may have been incorrectly repaired under previous NHTSA recall number 23V-480. An electrical conn
2020 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 20V682000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350,
2015 · structure:body:hood:hinge and attachmentscampaign 17V425000
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.
2015 · equipmentcampaign 14V828000
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 items, that were incorrectly installed. The accessory atta
2015 · tirescampaign 15V099000
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 wheels, causing the inflation information on the tire placard to
2015 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 14V663000
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, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal
2012 · structure:body:hood:hinge and attachmentscampaign 17V425000
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.
2012 · service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip:control unit/modulecampaign 14V054000
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 exp
15 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Generation
Version
2.4 i-FORCE MAX (326 Hp) Hybrid 4x4 ECT-i
From 2024-2026
Quick facts
Find your perfect car
Answer 10 quick questions and get a personalized recommendation based on real owner data.
Find my carPhoto: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
What would you like to do?
Dig deeper into the Toyota Tacoma or explore your options.
Compare with
Real questions about this car
What's the best used truck under $20k that's reliable and has low miles?
Read answer →
What's a reliable used truck for towing and daily driving?
Read answer →
Best used truck under $25k that's reliable?
Read answer →
Ford F-150 at 250,000 km. is it worth buying?
Read answer →
Toyota Tacoma with 200,000 km. is it worth buying?
Read answer →
Frequently asked questions
What do owners say about the Toyota Tacoma?
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific model year and generation.
What is the best version of the Toyota Tacoma to buy?
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim or version for the latest generation. For the prior generation (2016-2022), the TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport trims are mentioned positively for their handling and capability
What are common issues with the Toyota Tacoma?
Owners generally report few major mechanical issues with the Toyota Tacoma. Check the version specs table above for trim-specific data.
Is the Toyota Tacoma fuel efficient?
The Toyota Tacoma averages around 9.8 L/100km combined, based on the best-equipped catalogued version. Figures vary by trim and engine.