2018 Toyota Tacoma

Above average

Owners filed 209 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the brakes. It has been recalled 3 times.

Not among the Toyota Tacoma years to avoid. Which Toyota Tacoma years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
14,000 milesMedian miles at failure

92 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2018 Toyota Tacoma problems

45 of the 209 complaints (22%) are about the brakes.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Service Brakes · brakes42
501
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system34
000
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system23
000
Engine21
000
Power Train · transmission17
000
Unknown or Other14
000
Structure › Body · body and frame14
000
Electrical System9
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration6
000
Steering3
000

3 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump20V682000
Filed Nov 4, 20201,525,742 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. 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, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Risk. If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump20V012000
Filed Jan 13, 20201,830,752 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020. On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Risk. If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began May 4, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB02 and 20TA02 for Toyota vehicles and 20LB01 and 20LA01 for Lexus vehicles.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Master Cylinder18V888000
Filed Dec 13, 201844,121 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Toyota Tacoma vehicles. Improper machining of the brake master cylinder may result in internal damage of one of the seals, affecting brake performance.

Risk. Reduced brake performance can lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake master cylinder, free of charge. The recall began January 28, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are J16/J06.

All 3 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Structure › Body
Filed Oct 13, 2026FL

I have been having issues with an intermittent rain smell in my vehicle for the past few months not realizing the smell was due to water intrusion in the cabin of my truck. I own a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. As of recently the situation has been getting exceedingly worse due to stormy and rainy weather during the month of September. At this point I noticed the floor throughout my whole cabin was flooded with water. I was sure my windows were not open and my doors were closed and sealed properly. I took the vehicle to the Honda dealership and they provided me a Condition, Cause and Remedy (CCR). The CCR stated that water was entering my vehicle through the cabin vents located between my truck bed and the cabin of the vehicle. These cabin vents do not have any maintenance plan surrounding them, the seals are also not accessible or visible without complete removal of the back end of the truck. This is a manufacturer design issue and Toyota needs to warn their consumers to correct. Also because water intrudes in the vehicle it builds up moisture on the drivers windshield so you cannot see when driving early in the morning. The defroster does not help reduce visibility enough while driving. I was quoted a repair cost of $4500 by the Toyota dealership to fix. There is now mold growing through the only vehicle I own. I reached out to Toyota customer service to help get this resolved. It’s been over a week and they closed my case without providing any assistance or solution despite acknowle

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 8, 2026FL

Cab air vents behind rear seat leaks causing mold to form under carpet.

Engine
Filed Oct 6, 2026TN

2018 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD Double Cab, 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS). At about 87,000 miles the check engine light came on with code P11EC, Cylinder 1 Air-Fuel Ratio Imbalance (Port). Cylinder 1 failed compression. Leakdown and coolant tests had passed earlier; borescope did not show heavy scoring. The Toyota dealer said replacing the direct injectors would fix compression (quote about $4,499). After the dealer injector repair, cylinder 1 was still 124 psi (spec about 142-180 psi), so it did not fix compression. The dealer then quoted $11,778 for a short block (+$500 incidentals) and $14,238 for an engine assembly that was not new (about 45,000 miles on the replacement discussed); adding injectors again put the short-block path at about $16,278. I was steered toward buying a new truck and had the injector work reversed because it did not fix what they said it would. Toyota Brand Engagement Center reviewed the case, called the dealer, took VINs for other Toyotas, and denied goodwill; no recall or TSB. An independent shop later pulled the engine and found the cylinder 1 exhaust valves leaking badly; cylinder wall still looked good. Machine shop valve job, new rings, injectors tested (two bad), all six replaced; repair about $8,000. Truck runs normally after. Consequences: loss of power, failed emissions monitors, risk of further engine damage if driven, high repair cost. Not a crash. This appears to be a known pattern on the 2GR-FKS in 2016-2019 Tacomas (P11EC, cylinder 1, leaking/burnt exh

Unknown or Other
Filed Sep 24, 2026FL

Rear cabin air vents not sealed properly from factory. Water leaks in and soaks interior carpet and gets moldy.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Sep 21, 20268,000 milesNV

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving 65 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard, and the vehicle continued moving forward. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and was repaired under NHTS Campaign Number: 18V888000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); but the contact had evidence that the repair was not performed. There was an abnormal fuel odor inside and outside of the vehicle before the failure, which continued afterwards. The manufacturer was informed through brand engagement and customer care. The failure mileage was approximately 8,000.

Structure › Body
Filed Sep 18, 2026NJ

I have a clear coat bubbling issue on my mirrors and also multiple clear coat stains on the hood that just developed on my Toyota Tacoma Off Road-Inferno Orange paint after two years that I own it. I called Toyota, there is no recall on my paint color, but I've viewed an online post someone has placed a lawsuit for the same reasons, but a different color. They've had a recall on white paint but not my color and I wanted to document the complaint. I called Toyota corporate and they said to file it with NTSB.

Structure › Body
Filed Sep 8, 2026UT

I own a 2018 Toyota Tacoma SR, manufactured 11/2017, with factory paint code 1G3 Magnetic Gray Metallic. The factory clear coat is experiencing extensive delamination/failure on the hood and roof. This isn't isolated stone damage or normal cosmetic wear. The clear coat is failing extensively across the horizontal panels. I'm aware Toyota has previously acknowledged clear-coat peeling on Tacoma vehicles through T-SB-0004-20 and Customer Support Program 20TE02, and that there are documented complaints involving 2018 Tacomas experiencing clear-coat failure on the hood and roof. I understand my VIN may not currently fall within those programs, but I'm requesting that Toyota inspect and document the condition and consider goodwill assistance toward repainting the affected factory-painted panels. I'd also like a Toyota case number assigned to the paint failure.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 22, 2026NV

Vehicle hits a bump in the road and the check engine light comes on, followed by the gas pedal being non-responsive and an error code on the instrument panel saying “Brake Override System Malfunction. Check with dealer.” and “Pre-collision System Malfunction. Visit your dealer. ” When this occurs, have to coast the vehicle to a safe place, turn off and wiggle the Radar Control piece attached to the front grill sometimes multiple times before the truck will clear the code and accelerate. Been an ongoing issue for several months. Have replaced the front grill sensor and plate and the issue persists.

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 19, 2026LA

The cab vents failed causing water to soak the carpet and pad from the back wall to the front of the cab. Mold was growing through out the the cab. Carpet & pad had to be removed. This is a known problem by dealerships and owners of Toyota Tacoma. Because the water was under the seats, trim and weather mats it went undetected exposing us to mold. Problem was reported to Toyota dealership and Toyota Corporation. A case was logged 07/10/2026 as Case # 260710001840. The resolution offered was ordering and replacing parts. All parts required for repair and on backorder. Hundreds of orders for these parts in their system. Carpet and under mat had been replaced 05/02/2025 due to a Toyota recall campaign 21TD03.

Structure › Body
Filed Jul 13, 2026MD

WHAT FAILED: The clear coat finish on the exterior paint of my 2018 Toyota Tacoma has failed (cracking) in two separate locations on the same vehicle, indicating a manufacturing defect rather than normal wear. In late 2024, I discovered clear coat cracking on the roof and hood. I reported this to Toyota (Toyota case #241028000714) and paid approximately $2,000 out of pocket to have an independent body shop repaint the affected panels, as Toyota corporate declined to assist after the repair had already been performed. The clear coat is now cracking again at approximately 48,925 miles, this time on the cab in the pillar/trim area between the tops of the doors and the roofline. The vehicle and affected areas are available for inspection upon request. SAFETY IMPACT: This is a cosmetic exterior paint/clear coat defect. I have not identified any impact on vehicle operation, structural integrity, or visibility, and I am not aware of any safety risk to myself or others resulting from this issue to date. I am reporting it to document a recurring defect pattern on this vehicle. REPRODUCED/CONFIRMED BY A DEALER OR SERVICE CENTER: The 2024 occurrence was inspected and repaired by an independent body shop (not a Toyota dealer). The current occurrence has been reported to Toyota corporate (Toyota Brand Engagement Center) along with photographs, but has not been physically inspected by a Toyota dealer. INSPECTED BY MANUFACTURER, POLICE, OR INSURANCE: Toyota corporate reviewed photographic e

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jul 8, 2026FL

I was traveling southbound on I-25 when the flatbed truck in front of me came to a sudden stop. I was unable to stop in time to avoid rear-ending the truck. The airbags did not deploy upon impact.

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 30, 2026FL

The cabin pressure vents, located at the rear of the cab below the rear window on the body frame have failed. The seal on the exterior of the vents has dry rotted. This has caused an extensive amount of water intrusion that is undetectable until it has been present long enough to cause mildew issues. Being that water enters below the vehicle carpet and padding you cannot see it, your first warning sign is smell. When I began to assess the issue I pulled up my carpet to find standing water and mold. This is supposed to be a safe environment where I can transport myself and my family and I now I have to be concerned about mold inhalation each time my toddler sits in my truck. Toyota needs to do an immediate recall to the cabin vents and replace them with a product that can actually with stand the elements. Additionally they need to replace all the carpet, twill, and padding that has been compromised.

Structure
Filed Jun 26, 2026144,000 milesLA

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, there was an abnormal odor coming from the inside of the vehicle. While the vehicle was being serviced, the dealer discovered that the inner padding on the front passenger side, the rear passenger side, and the rear driver side was soaked with water, and due to the water accumulation, there was mold forming on the floor. The contact had placed towels to soak up the water while driving; however, the contact later discovered that the mold had spread to the towels as well. No warning lights were illuminated. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and stated that the rear cabin pressure bin needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 144,000.

Structure › Body
Filed May 30, 2026SC

Paint has been peeling from door handles and front bumper

Steering
Filed May 26, 2026SC

Am filing this complaint regarding a power steering rack leak on my [2018] Toyota Tacoma with [83,000] miles, which I purchased used three months ago from Fred Anderson Toyota of Greer in South Carolina. The dealer represented the vehicle as having passed a 160-point inspection and implied CPO-level standards, but it was not actually Certified Pre-Owned. The steering rack is now leaking power steering fluid, with visible accumulation in the boots, despite stable fluid levels in the reservoir during my ownership. This issue appeared very shortly after purchase, raising concerns that it was a pre-existing defect. Power steering leaks can lead to loss of assist and increase crash risk if they worsen. I request that NHTSA investigate whether this represents a safety defect affecting Toyota Tacomas, as similar complaints appear common in owner forums

Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Apr 27, 202677,000 milesLA

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the brake pedal was spongy while depressed. There was no warning light illuminated. The failure persisted, and the contact discovered oil on the bottom of his shoe before discovering oil in the driver’s side footwell. Upon inspection, the contact discovered that oil was leaking from the engine firewall onto the brake pedal. The dealer was notified of the failure, and the contact was initially informed that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V888000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the VIN was not associated with the recall. The contact was provided with an estimate for the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 77,000.

Engine
Filed Apr 8, 2026MD

The engine in my 2018 Toyota Tacoma failed at 39000 miles and Toyota is refusing to cover the repair costs. I have records of all regularly scheduled maintenance performed and I have never done anything that would put additional stress on the engine such as off-roading or towing. This engine is defective and should be recalled. There are numerous reports online of the same issue.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 2, 2026NY

The vacuum pump. This vehicle was inspected by Dunn Tire. Yes, the vehicle is available for inspection. The safety issue that occurs is the loss of power assist to your brake system, and if not repaired, can impact the camshaft or the oiling system. (Please see attachment).

Service Brakes
Filed Mar 5, 2026CA

The Break booster has failed or started since the break fluid is leaking inside the cab. And other trucks from the same year as my truck did have a recall for the break master cylinder failing. My breaks could potentially go out fully and I wont be able to stop. My problem has been confirmed by my independent service center. And also there's alot of other people having the same issue online. Since the floor mats show oil stains just like how I found out I was having a issue.It hasn't been confirmed by the manufacturer but I will be taking it soon to be inspection but since a recurring issue with multiple trucks online. I wanted to report it here so the recall could be extended to other trucks from same recall year. I noticed i was having a problem when I had to press down the breaks really hard to come to a stop. Then thats when I stopped and saw the oil on the floor mats. And my truck has really low mileage for the year and its safety concern to me and being that the replacement is really expensive just the part is around 1200.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 15, 2026OH

Truck has strong smell of fuel in the cab

Engine
Filed Dec 12, 2025KS

While driving I can here a ticking sound coming from the motor and it gets worse while I pick up speed

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 26, 2025CA

The brake actuator assembly is leaking brake fluid and is dripping onto the brake lever and onto the floorboard. This concern has been inspected and confirmed by a local Toyota dealership. This problem is a known safety recall by Toyota (Safety Recall J06).

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 17, 2025TN

The brake master cylinder seal is broken and causing brake fluid to leak into the floorboard of the cab near the brake pedal.

Structure › Body
Filed Nov 13, 2025HI

The 3rd generation Tacomas rear cabin vents (2 vents) allow water to enter the cabin because they are not tight to the body or sealed properly. The water leaks down the back wall and forward onto the floor soaking the carpet and padding underneath. The water in the carpet/padding has yielded mildew/mold throughout (water goes all the way to the front of the truck). The water also leaks through a floor grommet into a section where the cab mount bolts are and significant rust develops. Not only is the exposure to mold a health hazard, but the corrosion/rust on the cab mount bolts is a significant structural concern. There are many online posts with this problem, and i have just recently found this on my Tacoma. My vehicle has had the 3rd brake light recall, and this issue is completely separate from that recall. Toyota has a history on these vehicles not sealing them as they should. 1. The 2 rear cabin vents fail to keep water from entering the cab. I am happy to provide the vehicle for inspection. 2. Exposure to toxic mold is a health concern. Significant structural damage to the cab mount bolts is a concern if the vehicle were to be in an accident. 3. Numerous people online have confirmed this issue, and they have indicated dealerships are well aware of the issue. I put a garden hose to the back of my truck myself and saw water entering the vehicle. 4. Vehicle has not been inspected by manufacturer, police, insurance, etc. 5. Unknown when water leak first started. In the past

Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Oct 9, 2025CA

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that upon retrieving the Carfax report after purchasing the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy, and the vehicle seller was not the title holder. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 32,000, and the contact later discovered that the mileage was over 200,000 through the Carfax report.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Oct 1, 2025AZ

The fuel pump as stopped working the vehicle will not start and the 4x4 is showing that it is not working. The vehicle is available for inspection. Thankfully this happened while the vehicle was sitting over night but we had driven it the evening before it just stopped running. the Fuel system could have failed while we were driving anywhere. It has not been inspected by anyone else. it is sitting in our driveway and my husband has done a lot of trouble shooting as to what could be wrong and all arrows point to the fuel pump. there have been no check engine light or nothing this came out of nowhere.

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 6, 2025FL

The master cylinder is leaking brake fluid into the cab and is dripping behind the brake pedal. There is brake fluid in the wiring harness that goes to the brake switch as well. This is a known fire hazard from other vehicle manufacturers.

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 28, 2025CA

After a couple of years of owning my truck, the paint started on my hood and roof started to turn white and fade. I don’t understand why Toyota uses this type of paint that’s going to get messed up after a couple of years. Also after 4 years of owning the truck, the suspension is all messed up (never took the truck off road or driven it anywhere else but the streets and now they make noises like crazy

Exterior Lighting
Filed Aug 25, 2025FL

Third break light has started to leak inside the cab of vehicle. Causing a wet musty smell, possibly mold, and staining.

Structure › Body
Filed Aug 20, 2025TX

The clear coat on the exterior paint of the truck has failed. This has left the base coat paint exposed which means the metal frame is susceptible to rusting now.

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 17, 2025CA

Yes has been inspected by the manufacturer and they fixed it but I want to file a claim.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 11, 2025CA

Paint defect Hi, This 2018 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport 4X4 has a premium Cement Grey color. The clear coat from the paint is gone and it’s causing damage to my paint on the roof and doors of the vehicle.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 10, 2025TX

On June 26, 2025, around 9:30 AM, I was driving my Tacoma on the highway at approximately 70 mph when the truck suddenly lost power. I was in the center lane and nearly got hit as I tried to exit the highway. After exiting, the engine warning light came on, and the truck eventually stalled. I was able to restart it with limited power and drove it to a nearby shop. The shop's diagnosis revealed several warning codes, and the fuel pressure was found to be only 14 psi. They recommended replacing the low-pressure fuel pump. After researching known fuel pump issues, I had the truck towed to a local Toyota dealership. The dealership confirmed the codes but couldn’t replicate the low-pressure reading after driving for about 30 miles. Because of this, they stated that it didn’t qualify for the extended recall offered by Toyota. Toyota refused to replace the pump, arguing that the recall had already been performed in 2020 and that the low pressure reading came from a non-Toyota repair shop. My response was: how can they be sure that the pump replaced under the recall wasn’t faulty as well? No answer In the end, I had no choice but to cover the repair costs myself. However, I made sure to get the old pump back from the dealership and documented its manufacturing details to support my claim moving forward.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 11, 2025NV

The.truck won’t turn on. We checked it with a diagnostic tool and it was confirmed that it was the fuel pump.

Steering
Filed Apr 16, 202535,000 milesOR

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly, requiring increased effort to maneuver the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the rack and pinion. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The VIN was not available. The failure mileage was unknown 35,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 12, 2025TX

I own a 2018 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off Road and am experiencing a minor brake fluid leak within the cab which is leaking brake fluid from above the brake pedal. An independent mechanic determined the issue is associated with the brake booster and brake master cylinder which is related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V888000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the VIN is not included in the recall. No warning lights are illuminated. The leak was noticed at approximately 87,500. Vehicle is available for inspection and not yet inspected by the manufacturer, etc. The leak is minor now but believe it will get worse.

Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Apr 11, 2025254,000 milesIL

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The vehicle was purchased via private sale via Facebook marketplace. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 57,000, and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 254,000.

Parking Brake
Filed Mar 10, 202568,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that upon shifting to drive and starting to accelerate, there was an abnormal sound coming from the rear passenger’s side wheel. The contact became aware that the rear passenger’s side wheel was not rotating. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the parking brake cable. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 68,000.

Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings
Filed Feb 7, 2025CA

My 2018 Toyota Tacoma started showing a "forward collision detection system malfunction" "Contact your dealer" light came on that also indicates system is not on/functioning. I went to the dealer and was told the Millimeter Wave Radar Sensor Assembly #88210-04020 wad defective. My replacement cost and labor would be $1,543. I refused the service as I wanted to better understand the issue. I found that the exact item had fallen under a Toyota KOB recall. The same dealer had performed the recall in 2022. I believe the dealer should warranty the recalled part and service. It also appears the recall was performed incorrectly where a backing foam / seal that was to protect the sensor from moisture was installed incorrectly according to the recall recommendations.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Dec 6, 202485,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated while inside the vehicle, there was brake fluid leaking from above the brake pedal. Additionally, while driving, the brake pedal had to be firmly depressed to stop the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was a brake booster leak inside the cab, and it was determined that the brake booster and brake master cylinder needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired and remained at the dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V888000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 19, 2024CA

I HAVE HAD BELOW ISSUE AT 57000 MILES ON MY TACOMA. I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT I AM NOT UNDER THE WARRANTY, AND COPORATE THAT THERE IS NO RECALL FOR MY TRUCK BY SEARCH VIN, BUT ITS CLEAR IM EXPERIENCING THE SAME ISSUES AS BELOW AND SEEING OTHER VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE EXPERIENCING THE SAME ISSUE, SO ITS CLEAR THIS TRUCK WAS BUILT WITH THE SAME DEFECTS. The Plano, Texas-based manufacturer sent a safety recall report to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stating they will recall 6,046 2018 Toyota Camry, 2018 Toyota Highlander, 2017 Toyota Sienna, 2017 Toyota Tacoma, and 2017 Lexus RX350 vehicles built between Oct. 2 and Nov. 3, 2017. Toyota stated in the report the affected vehicles contain brake booster vacuum pump assemblies with improperly machined oil galleys. The vacuum pump is supplied oil from the engine to seal and lubricate the pump vane’s movement. The defect can cause oil to not properly circulate through the system, eventually breaking the pump vane and causing potentially dangerous braking assist loss.

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 20, 2024VA

The brake system is leaking fluid in the cab of the truck creating a safety hazard; the brake fluid is a slick oily substance that can potentially inhibit the application of the braking system when the foot is applied to the pedal with the brake fluid on the pedal or picked up on the bottom of the foot.

Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control
Filed Jul 23, 2024PR

The Electrohydraulic Brake Booster leak a Brake Fluid in the driver side Cabin near to Brake pedal.. This brake Fluid leak touch de floor paint and cause rust on the metal floor… eventually make the warning light on on dash panel and canceling brake functions and another think on brake system .. is a brake fail dangerous.. to much tacoma owners report that fails but Toyota USA solution is replace a Part but out of warranty ..

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 18, 2024FL

Unknown it changed and I have not kept track of new or old details.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 25, 2024OH

Rodents ate through eleven soy base coated wires. These wires just so happen to go to the fob, my air conditioning, and one headlight. This is obviously a safety issue. I contacted Toyota and filed my concerns. They told me that there is nothing they could do. I at the least would like a reasonable explanation why they engineered food into their electrical system. Thanks for listening.

Engine
Filed Apr 1, 2024FL

Motor tensioner bearings. All of the motor tensioner bearings have completely failed on this vehicle at 70,000 miles. All have to be replaced in an effort to avoid motor seizure and or other grave safety issues

Service Brakes
Filed Jan 5, 2024OK

The brake system is leaking fluid in the cab of the truck creating a safety hazard; the brake fluid is a slick oily substance that can potentially inhibit the application of the braking system when the foot is applied to the pedal with the brake fluid on the pedal or picked up on the bottom of the foot.

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 28, 2023AR

2018 Tacoma DC TRD Off Road, V6, hydraulic brake master cylinder, 49,000 miles: Brake fluid leaking into the cab of the vehicle beneath the brake pedal. Brake fluid is leaking from the rear of the master cylinder, running down the push rod and dripping off of the brake pedal bracket. Brake pedal resistance is slightly reduced. First noticed something dripping on my floor mat in April of 2023. I wasn't sure what it was. It never occurred to me that it could be brake fluid. There shouldn't be any vehicle fluids under the dash. There is the possibility of the system losing enough pressure that the brake system could fail entirely causing an accident and possible injury. (same symptoms as the recall for the vacuum boosted master cylinder-internal seal failure) This part should last at least half the life of the vehicle. 5 years and 49,000 miles is very premature for this part to fail. Took vehicle to the dealership. The dealership was quick to inform me that there are no open recalls on my vehicle, and this is not the same issue as the recall. I have a different style of master cylinder that is not affected by the recall. Toyota will not cover the failure. I should replace the entire master cylinder ($2100) and reevaluate. There have been no warning lamps, messages, or DTC's.

Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings
Filed Dec 14, 2023PR

Display a message in screen "Pre-Collision System Malfunction", lost power and start blinking light in cluster

Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Catalytic Convertor
Filed Dec 8, 2023106,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to two independent mechanics, who determined that the catalytic convertor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where it was also diagnosed and determined that the catalytic convertor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.

Complaints 1-50 of 209, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2006
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202613000Routine
2025116521Fatalities reported
2024155510Routine
202354410Routine
202259300Routine
202181001Fatalities reported
202090100Routine
2019219410Above average
2018 — this page209300Above average
2017244560Above average
2016324440Above average
2015102420Routine
201493410Routine
2013125660Routine
2012295700Above average
2011186962Fatalities reported
20102941370Above average
200952013180Above average
20084501164Fatalities reported
20075411092Fatalities reported
20067821170High concern
20057071040Above average
2004415530Above average
2003360510Above average
2002333530Above average
2001396644Fatalities reported
2000211520Above average
1999249510Above average
1998300501Fatalities reported
1997131400Routine
1996253612Fatalities reported
1995177631Fatalities reported

Compare every Tacoma year →

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Nov 4, 2020. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.