2016 Toyota Tundra

Routine

Owners filed 119 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the service brakes. It has been recalled 6 times.

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
15,000 milesMedian miles at failure

80 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 010,000 miles.

What fails
ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Service Brakes33
100
Electrical System19
000
Structure › Body17
002
Exterior Lighting9
000
Unknown or Other6
000
Steering6
000
Fuel/Propulsion System6
000
Air Bags4
100
Wheels3
000
Engine3
000

6 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Steering › Rack and Pinion21E103000
Filed Dec 23, 2021151 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain JTEKT power steering gear assembly service parts for 2007-2021 Tundra and 2008-2022 Sequoia, part numbers 44250-0C160, 44250-0C131, 44250-0C170, and 11250-0C121. The power steering gear assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in an oil leak.

Risk. An oil leak may cause a sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect and replace the power steering gear assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 17, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 21TH01.

Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist System21V920000
Filed Nov 23, 202122,462 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2022 Sequoia and 2007-2021 Tundra vehicles. The power steering gear assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in an oil leak.

Risk. An oil leak may cause a sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect and replace the power steering gear assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 21, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 21TB10 and 21TA10.

Air Bags › Knee Bolster17V416000
Filed Jun 29, 20175 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2016 Tundra vehicles. The affected vehicles have a passenger knee air bag module that was attached to the instrument panel mounting brackets with incorrect bolts.

Risk. The incorrect bolts may cause the air bag module to loosen over time, affecting the performance of the knee airbag, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy. All of the affected vehicles have been inspected and any incorrect knee air bag mounting bolts have been replaced, free of charge. The recall began on June 22, 2017. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is H0K.

Wheels › Lugs/Nuts/Bolts/Studs17V311000
Filed May 11, 20171,325 vehiclesSoutheast Toyota Distributors, Llc

Defect. Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2013-2017 Toyota Tundra and Sequoia vehicles accessorized with Southeast Toyota accessory 20-inch Rockstar wheels installed by Southeast Toyota or a Southeast Toyota dealer. The Rockstar wheels were installed with lugnuts that may crack and detach.

Risk. Lugnuts that crack and detach may cause the wheels to separate from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. SET will notify owners, and dealers will install new replacement lugnuts, free of charge. The recall began June 23, 2017. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET's number for this recall is SET17A.

Structure › Body › Bumpers17V051000
Filed Jan 24, 201772,847 vehiclesToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing

Defect. Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Tundra vehicles equipped with a resin rear step bumper and resin reinforcement brackets (vehicles with chrome step bumpers are not affected). In the event of an impact to the corner of the bumper, the resin bracket may be damaged but not be noticed.

Risk. If a person steps on the corner of the bumper that is damaged, a portion of the bumper may break away, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the resin rear bumper reinforcement brackets with steel ones, and replace the rear bumper tread, free of charge. The recall began on May 21, 2017. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is H0C.

Equipment › Other › Labels16V420000
Filed Jun 9, 20164,253 vehiclesSoutheast Toyota Distributors, Llc

Defect. Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2016 Toyota Camry and Highlander, 2015-2016 Toyota Tundra, Scion FR-S, and tC vehicles. The Load Carrying Capacity Modification Label may not reflect the correct added weight of the installed accessories. As a result, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims for Passenger Cars."

Risk. An incorrect label may lead an owner to overload the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. SET will notify owners, and provide a corrected label for placement over the inaccurate label, free of charge. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 23, 2026NM

2016 flex fuel toyota tundra with 118,00 miles was towed to toyota dealer in Las cruces with a no fuel issue. After the analysis it was determined the fuel pump over heated burning out conector and wiring ,but the pump was still working. According to toyota TSB 0166-19 this is a problem the can arise if the alcohol fuel density ID is not updated. I told the dealer to due repairs on vehicle even though a fuel pump was installed and reflashed at 114,000 miles. Viva toyota of las cruses advicate stated that a reflash is all the vehiles needs and does not desire to change the alchol fuel density to updated ID as per TSB-0166-19, so I am worried I will be operating a vehicle with a fuel pump that will over heat and burn out connectors again. I called Toyota complaints and they told me they cannot make a dealer do any repairs.

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 14, 2026MT

Bed is rusting out from the bottom in a fashion that looks very similar to a previous Tundra bed rusting issue that had a TSB and remedy from Toyota. On the driver's side bed bolt closest to the cab, the sheet metal tack welded to the bed has separated and is rusting out. Approximately 7 inches to the drivers side from that bolt. The seam sealer is also cracking. Additionally, the drivers side bed bolt closes to the tailgate has rust bubbling up from underneath approximately 1 inch to the passenger side from the bolt and also along where that sheet metal is tack welded onto the bed.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 22, 2026GA

The fuel pump component or system failed or malfunctioned the engine tried cranking but would not start. The problem has been reproduced to an independent service center, where I was notified of a safety recall on Toyota Tundra. No other inspections have been performed. There are no warning lamps messages visible on the vehicle in question. The vehicle will not start until repeated starts are performed. Vehicle idles roughly before regaining normal idle. One other past similar incident of this type has occurred. No other

Engine
Filed Apr 21, 202667,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2016 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated that while driving at slower speeds, the vehicle stalled while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the fuel pump and other fuel pump-related parts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired because the parts were on back order. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 67,000.

Steering
Filed Feb 19, 2026OR

The steering rack internal seal inside the steering rack failed/ "blew" per mechanic and is leaking. I could lose my ability to steer at any time while driving my vehicle and wreck. It is currently at the Toyota services center in Gladstone, OR and has been diagnosed. No other representatives have inspected the vehicle. There were no warnings or signs of failure. I had originally taken my truck in to have an oil change and have it checked for a "slow" start up.

Steering
Filed Dec 16, 2025ID

The power steering went out during routine around-town driving. One moment it was steering fine, the next moment it became extremely difficult and sluggish. There were no warning lights or warning of any sort until the steering wheel started jerking unevenly as I tried to turn. I was able to get control of the vehicle and pull it to the side of the road. There was no difference in the engine noise, and I couldn't see any noticeable fluid leak. I was able to drive the vehicle home, make an appointment with the Toyota dealer, and get the vehicle to the dealership for inspection. The dealership told me after inspection, that the rack and pinion steering was binding internally, and that there was seepage from the right boot. Initially, they told me that the pump should be fine. I authorized them to replace the rack and pinion steering. After which, they told me that the problem seemed to still persist some, and that the pump would have to be replaced also. My total bill came to $3,200, which seemed not unfair. But this whole issue seemed like something that should be noticed as part of a recall. I found the NHTSA recall number. 21V-920, and my truck seemed to match exactly the symptoms spelled out is this recall , but Toyota refused to acknowledge it. My VIN number did not fall within the specified VIN for this recall. I've driven several Toyotas, including another Tundra, a Tacoma, 2 Highlanders and a Sienna, and have been pleased with each vehicle. This Tundra is 10 years old w

Exterior Lighting
Filed May 24, 2025ND

My right front headlamp is getting moisture inside the headlamp assembly. It can be inspected any time. Chance that headlamp will not work. Did not take to a dealer.

Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed May 7, 2025250,000 milesNM

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2016 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated while going through prior service paperwork found in the vehicle, he discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. The contact also stated that the vehicle was once sold at a private auction. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 158,000; however, upon discovery of the service paperwork, the contact discovered that the vehicle mileage was once 250,000.

Structure › Body › Hood
Filed Mar 20, 2025AL

I have had multiple incidents where the front hood bulge has blown off going down the interstate and nearly hit other cars. It’s not been worth buying a new one with the risk of them flying off. It’s definitely a saftey concern and a hazard.

Service Brakes
Filed Feb 20, 2025PA

The trailer brake controller went out. It does not supply electronic braking and the truck no longer recognizes the controller on the dashboard. Multiple on line chats and forums, along with my trailer provider, show awareness of this defect. Online individuals learned of the issue during emergency stopping. This appears to be known and wide spread.

Structure › Body
Filed Feb 17, 2025LA

The frame of the truck is extremely rusted. I am unsure if it can be fixed. It is available for inspection. This 2016 Tundra has 71,000 miles and is used as a third car. It has been serviced at the same dealership (Northshore Toyota, Covington, LA) and we were never informed of the damage by the dealership. My safety is at risk because the extensive rust could cause the frame to fail. Previous Tundra models have been recalled because of the same issues. No warnings were issued even after the dealership serviced the truck on a lift numerous times (approximately 9 years). The only previous warning by the dealership was on 1/29/2025 when the dealership informed us of a rusty trailer hitch. The truck was brought to 4 body shops in the local area after the owner went to work on the trailer hitch and saw the damage. All 4 shops confirmed that the rust was extensive. 3 shops would not fix the damage because it would be an expensive/extensive fix. We are waiting on what shop #4 says.

Engine
Filed Nov 14, 2024AZ

Problem Parts?? At around 70,000 miles I was told that there was an engine oil leak ... camshaft area... and the engine needs to pulled out with a repair cost of about $5,000 dollars. (Reseal both cam towers, replace gaskets, etc.) A bit ridiculous. Is there now a possible engine fire risk? At 70,000 miles there was obviously a manufacturing mistake or a defective part used during assembly.

Structure › Body
Filed Nov 5, 2024VA

Peeling paint. White paint is separating from primer on hood, and adjacent to windshield on a pillars and the leading edge if the roof.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 5, 2024PA

1)Over 60 MPH with new tires the vehicle pulses & shakes on front end, checked alignment everything OK per Mechanic. Just started to occur 2)Bluetooth when on iPhone will at any time cut out guaranteed to occur when using at any time been occurring for 2 + years. 3)Trailer brake warning light (Idiot light) comes on dashboard does not recommend trailering due to electrical issue. occurring for 2+ years Bought vehicle used in 2017 with 13k on Truck now 2024 has 91K on truck love the truck but zero recalls for any of the above?

Structure
Filed Sep 7, 202399,000 milesNH

The contact owns a 2016 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle ran off the road during a thunderstorm, causing the driver's and passenger's side curtain air bags to deploy. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who informed the contact that the headliner needed to be replaced; however, the part to complete the repair was not available. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The failure mileage was approximately 99,000.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 6, 2023UT

Seat heater stopped working. Turns out there is a burnt connector leading to part number 87501-0C020, which appears to be a seat heater amp. One pin of the connector is completely melted. I've purchased this truck brand new from Toyota. Nobody has ever touched this part. Scared that it could have caught fire.

Steering
Filed Aug 9, 2023CA

I was stopped at a turn light to merge left onto freeway and the truck steering went out when trying to turn, it led me into oncoming traffic that was just coming to a stop light, I was able to crank my wheel with all my strength to get to the side of the uphill freeway merge ramp. There were no warning signs. It was so scary and thank goodness I hadn't merged onto the freeway. The component that failed was the power steering assembly, rack and pinion with inner and outer tie rods. I don't believe the parts will be available for inspection since the truck was towed to repair shop. Overall, I was lucky to be alive. My safety was put at risk being unable to properly steer, if I had been going any faster, or even on the freeway there would be no way to control the vehicle. Initially, I was put into oncoming traffic that was coming to a stop. It put myself and everyone around me in danger. The problem has been confirmed by an independent repair shop that truck was towed to. They immediately saw the problem and took several days to fix. Even questioned what I was doing at the time of this event, because something like this just doesn't typically happen. It concerned them so much, that United Wheels and Tires suggested I reach out to Toyota. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone but the dealer and the tow truck services. Insurance was notified of situation and services dispatched, since the truck was not drivable. There were NO warming lamps, messages or anything on truck. T

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 3, 2023OR

The integrated brake controller does not apply enough power to the trailer brakes.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 26, 2023CO

Gas tank no longer fills completely in a single squeeze. Each squeeze of the pump only fills up maybe a .25 gallon at a squeeze if I am lucky, but typically less. This results in a complete fill up taking close to a half hour. There are numerous posts on forums such as https://www.tundras.com/threads/gas-filling-problem.38449/, https://www.tundras.com/threads/gas-tank-roll-over-valve-stuck-causes-hard-fuelling-anyone-else.42535/, and many others regarding this issue, with no response from dealers other than sorry. This sounds like a pure manufacturing issue if so many people have issues with their tanks, in a similar fashion.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Feb 27, 2023CA

Fuel gauge provides false inaccurate reading, resulting in stranded situation when fuel runs out. Toyota is aware is issue and has only issued a TSB for limited years when the problem is more wide spread. My daughter has been stranded several times.

20 of 119 complaints, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2000
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202630100Routine
2025130500Routine
20243341030Above average
20234001350Above average
20224281300Above average
202124310Routine
202045510Routine
2019721020Routine
201899930Routine
201778600Routine
2016 — this page119600Routine
201548510Routine
201493510Routine
201385630Routine
2012155420Routine
20111341100Routine
20101631600Routine
2009381310Routine
20083271320Above average
20073901453Fatalities reported
20065451300Above average
20053741430Above average
20044661311Fatalities reported
20033991030Above average
2002482613Fatalities reported
2001415521Fatalities reported
20001,011751Fatalities reported
19991100Routine

Compare every Tundra year →

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

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: Dec 23, 2021. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.