Toyota Tacoma Years To Avoid: As truck drivers hit the road in search of reliability and consistency, one name has stood the test of time: the Toyota Tacoma. Known for its rugged durability and unwavering performance, the Tacoma has become a staple in the world of pickup trucks.
While some models have faced minor issues over the years, the Tacoma has maintained its reputation as a dependable workhorse for drivers seeking a trustworthy companion on their journeys.Get ready to explore more
Which Toyota Tacoma Years You Should Avoid
It’s a good idea to steer clear of certain years when it comes to the Toyota Tacoma. Surprisingly, there aren’t too many to worry about considering this model has been in production almost non-stop since 1995.
- 2006
- 2007
- 2008
- 2009
- 2011
- 2012
- 2016
- 2017
Model/ Year | Known Faults |
Tacoma 2006 | Lower ball joint problem |
Tacoma 2007 | Frame rust Issue |
Tacoma 2008 | Chipping paint, door lock actuator failures, and rare unintended acceleration |
Tacoma 2009 | Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages |
Tacoma 2011 | Melting headlight lens covers, air conditioning issues, and a lot of suspension noise |
Tacoma 2012 | Air pump issues, vibration while driving, and some excessive rust |
Tacoma 2016 | Oil leakage of the rear differential |
Tacoma 2017 | Weak Engine Power, Rattling, and Ticking Noises |
Between 2006 and 2009, Toyota Tacoma models faced consistency issues stemming from their similar designs.
A small number of complaints suggested the presence of a persistent problem across the range.
Since 2017, the Tacoma has demonstrated a return to consistent performance for new owners. These improvements have likely been driven by enhanced quality control measures implemented by Toyota.
The recent shift towards improved reliability is promising for potential buyers considering the purchase of a new Tacoma model.
Common Tacoma Issues
When considering a Toyota Tacoma, it’s important to recognize that model year issues do not necessarily reflect the overall suitability of the vehicle.
Understanding the severity of potential problems is essential before making a purchase. Certain Tacoma models may have common issues that buyers should be aware of to avoid costly repairs down the line.
By being informed about specific problem areas in various Tacoma models, consumers can make more educated decisions when choosing a truck that suits their needs and budget.
Not Shifting Correctly
Tacoma trucks, particularly the 2016 and 2017 models, have been plagued by a common issue of incorrect shifting.
This problem can lead to dangerous situations on the road, such as sudden jerks or unexpected acceleration.
Drivers have reported instances where the vehicle failed to shift correctly, impacting both performance and safety.
Toyota has made efforts to address this issue in newer Tacoma models. The company has reportedly improved the shifting system to enhance accuracy and reliability in recent versions of the truck.
The focus on rectifying this flaw underscores Toyota’s commitment to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its customers.
Despite these improvements, drivers should remain vigilant and monitor their vehicles for any signs of shifting irregularities.
Regular maintenance checks and prompt servicing can help prevent potential issues from escalating.
It is advisable for Tacoma owners to stay informed about any recalls or updates related to their specific model year.
By staying proactive and attentive to these concerns, drivers can mitigate risks associated with incorrect shifting in their Tacoma trucks.
With ongoing advancements in technology and design, manufacturers like Toyota strive to deliver vehicles that meet high standards of performance and safety.
Sticky Accelerators
A sticky accelerator poses a significant danger on highways and roads, especially when sudden accelerations occur unexpectedly.
While this issue has been largely addressed, particularly in newer and older models of the Tacoma, it remains a serious concern with the 2007 model.drivers of recent or older versions need not worry about this particular problem.
The potential risks associated with a sticky accelerator include loss of control, accidents, and even potential injuries to both the driver and other road users.
It is crucial for all drivers to remain vigilant and address any issues related to acceleration promptly.
Regular maintenance checks can help prevent such situations from occurring and ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
It is always advisable to exercise caution and be aware of any changes in vehicle performance that could indicate a problem with the accelerator.
By staying informed and proactive about vehicle maintenance, drivers can mitigate risks associated with sticky accelerators on any type of road or highway.
Clear Coat Peeling And Cracking
Peeling paint on Tacoma trucks is usually just superficial and doesn’t affect the truck’s performance.
iIf you notice clear coat cracking, it could be masking more serious body panel issues underneath.
In some cases, you might need to repaint to tackle any rust and stop potential future problems from arising.
It’s important to keep an eye on any paint issues and address them promptly to maintain the appearance and longevity of your Tacoma truck.
Remember, a fresh coat of paint not only gives your truck a new look but also helps protect it from corrosion in the long run.
Excessive Driving Vibration
Some Tacoma models experience driving vibration problems that can impact vehicle control. The shaking sensation can be bothersome and potentially dangerous for drivers.
If not addressed, excessive vibrations may lead to driver fatigue, which is particularly risky on long or continuous drives.
The issue can be caused by various factors such as unbalanced tires or worn suspension components.
It’s important to have a professional mechanic inspect the vehicle to pinpoint the source of the problem.
Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent driving vibration issues in Tacoma models.
Issues With Lower Ball Joint
Owners and forum users of Toyota Tacoma trucks have raised concerns about premature wear on the lower ball joints, with symptoms like uneven tire wear, vibrations, loose steering, and rattling noises.
In extreme cases, there is a risk of the lower ball joint disconnecting, posing a serious threat to vehicle control.
This issue affects Tacoma models produced from 1995 to 2007 due to a manufacturing problem. To address this safety concern,
Toyota issued a recall for Tacomas built between 2001 and 2004. It’s important for Tacoma owners to be aware of these potential issues and take necessary precautions to ensure driving safety.
Faulty Air Flow Meter
The Toyota Tacoma often experiences problems with its mass air flow (MAF) sensor, causing issues like slow acceleration, power loss, engine hesitation, misfires, and poor emissions.
Accumulated dirt is a common culprit for these sensor malfunctions in Tacomas. While cleaning may not always fix the problem, replacing the sensor might be necessary.
Models produced between 1996 and 2013 are especially prone to MAF sensor issues. Regular maintenance and inspection can help prevent or address these common problems in Toyota Tacomas.
Conclusion
Hopefully we help you Through the analysis of data spanning four generations of the Toyota Tacoma, it is evident that Toyota has diligently addressed known faults and continuously improved the quality of the vehicle over time.
This commitment to innovation and reliability has contributed to the immense following and strong reputation enjoyed by the Toyota Tacoma among drivers. As a result, consumers continue to choose the Tacoma for its proven track record and durability.
FAQs
Best Tacoma Years Generations
The generation of Toyota Tacoma models produced between 1995 and 2005 has been widely regarded as the pinnacle of excellence, boasting minimal complaints regarding faults and issues.
Which Tacoma is Faster?
On the race track, the turbo-four Tacoma with more torque accelerated to 60 mph in 7.0 seconds, surpassing the V-6 variant by six tenths of a second. Despite carrying an additional 133 pounds, the TRD Off-Road model weighing 4794 pounds also outpaced the lighter TRD Pro in all other acceleration trials.
What is The Most Popular Tacoma?
Among all the Tacoma models available, the TRD Pro stands out as the clear favorite. It’s off-road prowess, rugged aesthetic, and cutting-edge features have earned it a top spot in the hearts of many. The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is a powerhouse of a truck designed for high-performance off-roading adventures. It seamlessly blends strength, resilience, and versatility into a sleek and compact form that exudes style.