Toyota Tacoma Problems: 7 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2016-2023 model years · Based on 5,214+ owner reports · Last updated March 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 5,214+ owner reports, the 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma has 7 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is 6-Speed Automatic Rough Shifting with 1,200 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $5,000. Full technical analysis and DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 7 Known Issues
The 6-speed automatic transmission can exhibit rough or hesitant shifting, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear at low speeds. Some owners describe it as lurching or jerking. This is related to the transmission's adaptive learning and torque converter behavior.
Common Symptoms
- Rough 1-2 shift at low speeds
- Lurching when accelerating gently
- Hesitation from stop
- Clunk when shifting
- Jerky driving in traffic
How to Fix
Ensure transmission software is updated. Transmission may need adaptive learning reset. Regular transmission fluid changes help. Toyota has issued TSBs with software updates for some model years.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 1,200+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipRegular transmission fluid changes help.
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
- TipSearch Toyota Tacoma forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
- TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
The 6-speed manual transmission can exhibit grinding when shifting, particularly into 2nd or 3rd gear, and generally notchy shift feel. This is often related to the synchros or the clutch system hydraulics.
Common Symptoms
- Grinding into 2nd or 3rd gear
- Notchy shift feel
- Difficulty shifting when cold
- Clutch pedal inconsistent
- Metallic grinding sound
How to Fix
Change transmission fluid with Toyota genuine fluid. Bleed clutch hydraulic system if pedal feel is off. Some owners report improved shifting with aftermarket transmission fluid. Synchro replacement in severe cases.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 720+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipConsider OEM parts for critical components like sensors and electrical parts - aftermarket can be unreliable
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
- TipSearch Toyota Tacoma forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
- TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
The Entune infotainment system can experience lag, freezing, and connectivity issues. Bluetooth pairing may be unreliable, and the touchscreen can become unresponsive. Navigation can crash or display outdated information.
Common Symptoms
- Touchscreen lag
- System freezes
- Bluetooth won't connect
- Navigation crashes
- Random reboots
How to Fix
Update Entune software to latest version. Perform system reset. Delete paired Bluetooth devices and re-pair. Some owners report improvement with aftermarket head units. Check for Toyota service campaigns.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 680+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipConsider OEM parts for critical components like sensors and electrical parts - aftermarket can be unreliable
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
- TipSearch Toyota Tacoma forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
- TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
The A/C system can develop a musty or moldy smell when first turned on. This is caused by moisture accumulation and mold/bacteria growth on the evaporator. Common in humid climates and vehicles that use A/C infrequently.
Common Symptoms
- Musty smell when A/C starts
- Mold or mildew odor
- Smell goes away after a few minutes
- Worse in humid weather
- Allergic reactions possible
How to Fix
Use A/C evaporator cleaner spray through the cabin air filter opening or vents. Replace cabin air filter regularly. Run A/C on fresh air mode for a few minutes before turning off to dry evaporator. Professional evaporator cleaning available.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 620+ owners who fixed this issue
- UpgradeUse A/C evaporator cleaner spray through the cabin air filter
- TipReplace cabin air filter regularly.
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
Tacomas in northern/salt belt climates can develop frame rust, similar to issues on older Tacomas and Tundras. While Toyota improved their frame coating, trucks exposed to road salt still experience accelerated corrosion.
Common Symptoms
- Visible rust on frame
- Flaking or scaling metal
- Rust around welds and joints
- Failed inspection in some states
- Structural concerns
How to Fix
Apply rust prevention coating annually before winter. Wash undercarriage regularly to remove salt. Inspect frame yearly for rust progression. If severe, frame replacement or professional rust treatment may be needed.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 580+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipApply rust prevention coating annually before winter.
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
- TipSearch Toyota Tacoma forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
- TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
Some Tacomas experience a shudder or vibration during low-speed acceleration, traced to the rear driveshaft and U-joints. Toyota issued a TSB recommending driveshaft replacement with an updated design.
Common Symptoms
- Shudder during 10-25 mph acceleration
- Vibration from rear of truck
- Clicking or popping from driveshaft
- Worse when cold
- Vibration under light throttle
How to Fix
Toyota TSB-0077-17 recommends replacing the rear driveshaft assembly with updated part. Check with Toyota dealer for warranty coverage. Aftermarket fix: Replace U-joints with Spicer units and ensure proper grease. For lifted trucks, consider a CV-style driveshaft to handle the steeper angle.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 534+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipConsider OEM parts for critical components like sensors and electrical parts - aftermarket can be unreliable
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
- TipSearch Toyota Tacoma forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
- TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
The rear leaf springs can develop a squeaking or creaking noise, especially when going over bumps or when the bed is loaded. This is caused by the leaf spring leaves rubbing against each other and is common on trucks.
Common Symptoms
- Squeaking from rear suspension
- Creaking over bumps
- Noise worse with load
- Noise in hot or cold weather
- Sounds like old bed springs
How to Fix
Lubricate leaf springs with silicone spray or dedicated leaf spring lubricant. Install aftermarket leaf spring pads/insulators. Some owners apply grease between leaves. This is typically more annoying than harmful.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 880+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipConsider OEM parts for critical components like sensors and electrical parts - aftermarket can be unreliable
- TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
- TipSearch Toyota Tacoma forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
- TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Toyota Tacoma problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 5,214+ owner reports, the 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma has 7 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Frame Rust (Northern Climates), Rear Driveshaft Shudder / U-Joint Failure, 6-Speed Automatic Rough Shifting. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
Is the Toyota Tacoma reliable?
The 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma has 7 known issues documented across 5,214+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Toyota Tacoma problems?
Repair costs for known Toyota Tacoma issues range from $0 to $5,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Toyota Tacoma is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Toyota Tacoma. Based on owner reports, issues are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma with 7 documented issues from 5,214+ owner reports.
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