Toyota Tacoma 2nd generation (2004–2015)
Generation-specific owner insights from 18+ substantive owner discussions, with US complaint and recall records.
Should I buy a 2004–2015 Tacoma?
5,091
US owner complaints (NHTSA), 2004–2015
103
recall campaigns
suspension
most-complained area
What owners say about this generation
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
The version owners recommend
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.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Nissan Frontier, Honda Ridgeline, 1st gen Toyota Tundra, 1st gen Tacoma and 3rd gen Tacoma.
Is a 2004–2015 Tacoma right for you?
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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.
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.
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.
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 year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 101 | 4 | unknown or other |
| 2014 | 93 | 4 | structure |
| 2013 | 125 | 6 | power train |
| 2012 | 295 | 7 | engine |
| 2011 | 186 | 9 | suspension |
| 2010 | 882 | 13 | suspension |
| 2009 | 519 | 13 | suspension |
| 2008 | 446 | 11 | suspension |
| 2007 | 541 | 10 | suspension |
| 2006 | 782 | 11 | structure |
| 2005 | 707 | 10 | structure |
| 2004 | 414 | 5 | structure |
Source: US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices for this generation
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 attaching fasteners were not tightened with the proper torque, possibly causing the accessory to detach from the vehicle.
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 be incorrect which may result in the tire being improperly inflated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 110, "Tire Selection and Rims and Motor Home/Recreation Vehicle Trailer Load Carrying Capacity Information for Motor Vehicles with a GVWR of 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) or less."
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 Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 110, "Tire Selection and Rims for Passenger Cars."
2014 · 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.
2014 · 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 attaching fasteners were not tightened with the proper torque, possibly causing the accessory to detach from the vehicle.
2014 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 14V475000
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."
2014 · enginecampaign 13V557000
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.
2013 · 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.
2013 · 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 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.
2013 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 14V475000
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."
2013 · enginecampaign 13V557000
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.
26 more recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Owner insights summarize real ownership discussions for this generation only. Complaint and recall data is public NHTSA (US) information. Always verify recalls against your VIN at nhtsa.gov.