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Toyota Tacoma
Pick-up · Gas · 137 versions · owner report
Ranked #7 of 7 midsize pickup trucks on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
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
Combined, EPA 2026
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific model year and generation.
11 problems reported (3 very frequent, 6 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentRough-shifting/failing 8-speed automatic transmission
- Very frequentDriveshaft defect (recall issued)
- Very frequentElectrical glitches (battery drain, need for jump-starts, dashboard screen issues)
+ 8 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentEngine defects (coolant pipe leaks, timing cover leaks, cylinder wall damage)
- RecurrentPoor build quality/interior materials (rattles, squeaks, cheap-feeling components)
- RecurrentHarsh ride quality
- RecurrentFrame rust/corrosion (subject to past recalls and lawsuits)
- RecurrentSqueaky rear leaf springs
- RecurrentSpongy/throttle response (prior generation)
- IsolatedUnderpowered wireless phone charger
- IsolatedLeaking third brake light
The version owners recommend
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. There is an isolated mention that the hybrid powertrain in the new generation may be preferable to avoid the issues associated with the non-hybrid engine.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, Nissan Frontier, Jeep Gladiator and Honda Ridgeline.
Is the Tacoma right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
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. However, there is a strong and recurrent narrative of declining reliability and increasing issues in newer models. The 2016-2017 model years are specifically flagged by owners for serious engine problems, including rear coolant pipe leaks, front timing cover leaks, and mysterious cylinder wall damage. For the latest generation (2024-2026), feedback is sharply divided. Some owners report positive experiences with no major issues, praising modern features and capability. Conversely, a very frequent and dominant criticism centers on significant powertrain and quality control problems, including rough-shifting or failing 8-speed automatic transmissions, a recalled driveshaft defect, and widespread electrical glitches. The consensus indicates a growing perception that Toyota's historic reputation for bulletproof reliability is eroding, particularly for its current truck lineup, leading to buyer hesitation and frustration, especially given high pricing.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as the traditional benchmark for midsize truck reliability and resale value, but this position is under significant pressure. The Nissan Frontier is frequently cited as a direct, more affordable alternative that is "fractionally worse" but offers substantial cost savings, leading some owners to question the "Toyota tax." The Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado are noted as capable competitors, with the Ranger's 2.3L EcoBoost engine and 10-speed transmission mentioned as proven, though some report post-warranty issues. The consensus suggests that while the Tacoma was once the default choice for long-term reliability, competitors are now seen as offering comparable or better value, features, or performance, making the Tacoma's premium price harder to justify given its reported problems.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient specific configuration data from owner discussions. General advice inferred includes: having any used purchase thoroughly inspected for rust (a historical issue), verifying all recall work has been completed, and for the latest models, being cautious of the non-hybrid powertrain and early production units. For older models, third-party fixes are mentioned for common issues like spongy throttle response and leaking third brake lights.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers who prioritize the Toyota brand and are willing to accept potential reliability risks in newer models for perceived long-term value. Strongly recommended to avoid the 2016-2017 model years due to documented engine defects. For the current generation (2024-2026), extensive research, verification of recall status, and a thorough pre-purchase inspection are critical. Not recommended for buyers seeking guaranteed trouble-free ownership from a new vehicle. Consider certified pre-owned (CPO) models from prior generations for a balance of modernity and proven reliability, but be vigilant as CPO inspections may miss basic items like a failing battery. Cross-shop competitors like the Nissan Frontier for better value.
Remarks
The data covers multiple generations, creating a narrative of declining reliability. The significant issues with the 2024+ Tacoma and Tundra are repeatedly cited as evidence that Toyota's current truck powertrains are problematic. Owner discussions reference a specific recall for a driveshaft defect on 2025 Tacomas and note that similar debris-related engine issues in hybrid models have not been recalled. The "Toyota Tax": the premium price commanded by used Tacomas: is a recurrent theme, with many owners stating it is no longer justified given the reliability of competitors and the issues with newer Toyotas. Analysis based on approximately 40 substantive owner discussions and reports.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Tacoma II Access Cab2004–20155,091 complaints · 103 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): suspension (1095) · structure (1091) · vehicle speed control (646)
Our take, from owner reports
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.
7 problems reported (2 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentUncomfortable seating position and seats, described as sitting too close to the floor
- Very frequentPoor fuel economy, typically 16-19 mpg
- RecurrentFrame rust/rot (including on replacement frames from the rust recall)
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentPoor factory headlights, with no good factory upgrade path
- IsolatedSmog pump failure on 2012 models
- IsolatedTransmission failure shortly after 100k miles (one owner report)
- Isolated6-speed manual transmission described as "total garbage" by one owner
Is a 2004–2015 Tacoma right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2010. Years to avoid: 2010, 2009, 2007, 2006, 2005Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Toyota Tacoma years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 98 | 5 | structure |
| 2024 | 149 | 5 | power train |
| 2023 | 54 | 4 | electrical system |
| 2022 | 59 | 3 | power train |
| 2021 | 80 | 0 | power train |
| 2020 | 87 | 1 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2019 | 218 | 4 | service brakes |
| 2018 | 206 | 3 | service brakes |
| 2017 | 239 | 5 | power train |
| 2016 | 323 | 4 | power train |
| 2015 | 101 | 4 | unknown or other |
| 2014 | 93 | 4 | structure |
| 2013 | 125 | 6 | power train |
| 2012 | 295 | 7 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices172 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2025 · 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.
2025 · 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 error in the instrument panel software at vehicle startup, the instrument panel may fail to display vehicle speed, brake system, and tire pressure warning lights.
2025 · power train:driveline:driveshaftcampaign 25V656000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2025 Tacoma and Tacoma Hybrid vehicles. The front driveshaft constant-velocity (CV) joint may deform and break.
2025 · 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, and Lexus TX350 vehicles. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2025 · suspension:rear:shock absorbercampaign 26V514000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024 Tacoma Hybrid and 2024-2025 Tacoma vehicles. The metal flange on the front and rear shock absorbers may corrode and fail, resulting in detachment of the external oil reservoir.
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, Tundra Hybrid, Venza Hybrid, 2023-2025 Crown, and 2025 Camry Hybrid vehicles equipped with GST accessories. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
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 error in the instrument panel software at vehicle startup, the instrument panel may fail to display vehicle speed, brake system, and tire pressure warning lights.
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, and Lexus TX350 vehicles. The load carrying capacity modification label may display inaccurate added weight values. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2024 · suspension:rear:shock absorbercampaign 26V514000
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024 Tacoma Hybrid and 2024-2025 Tacoma vehicles. The metal flange on the front and rear shock absorbers may corrode and fail, resulting in detachment of the external oil reservoir.
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 Anchorage System."
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 spiral cable assembly may be insufficiently welded, causing the connection to separate and deactivate the driver's air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
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 connection inside the steering column's spiral cable assembly may be insufficiently welded, causing the connection to separate and deactivate the driver's air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2022 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 22V310000
Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (GST) is recalling certain 2022 4Runner, Tacoma, Highlander, and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The load carrying capacity modification labels may not be permanent and can fade, becoming illegible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
157 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
2.4 i-FORCE MAX Hybrid
Hybrid · 326 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2024–2026
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Real questions about this car
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. There is an isolated mention that the hybrid powertrain in the new generation may be preferable to avoid the issues associated with the non-hybrid engine.
What are common issues with the Toyota Tacoma?
Rough-shifting/failing 8-speed automatic transmission Driveshaft defect (recall issued)
Is the Toyota Tacoma fuel efficient?
The EPA rates the 2026 Toyota Tacoma at 20–23 mpg combined, depending on the version.