2012 Toyota Tundra Problems: 5 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2012 model year · 52,500+ owner reports · Updated April 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 52,500+ owner reports, the 2012 Toyota Tundra has 5 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak ($0-$1,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak with 20,000 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $4,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 5 Known Issues

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Community Reported

20,000 owners

On the 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra, toyota recalled 2007-2021 Tundra vehicles due to defects in the power steering gear assembly that can cause oil leaks. When power steering fluid leaks from the assembly, it can result in sudden loss of power steering assist while driving.

Common Symptoms

Power steering fluid leak
Increased steering effort
Sudden loss of power steering assist
Squealing noise when turning
Low power steering fluid warning

How to Fix

Toyota dealers will inspect and replace the power steering gear assembly as necessary, free of charge under recall 21V920. Out-of-recall replacement costs $800-$1,500.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 20,000+ owners who fixed this issue

TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $800-$1,500 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
NoteThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
UpgradeInner and outer tie rod ends for steering precision restoration (Moog Tie Rod End)
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UpgradeRemanufactured power steering rack for complete steering system repair (Cardone Remanufactured Steering Rack)
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Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,500

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20,000+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence20,000 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

12,000 owners

On the 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra 5.7L V8, the 5.7L iForce V8 engine is known for developing oil leaks at the cam tower due to Toyota's use of gray RTV silicone sealant instead of a proper gasket from the factory. The sealant degrades over time, particularly at the rear of the cam towers where the engine is slanted.

This issue also affects: BMW 8 Series, BMW i3, BMW M3

Common Symptoms

Oil residue visible in wheel wells
Burning oil smell
Oil spots on driveway
Low oil level between changes
Shiny wetness around cam tower area

How to Fix

Repair requires removing the top of the engine, timing chain, and cam tower to reseal with proper RTV. This is labor-intensive and typically costs $2,500-$4,000 at a dealer. DIY is possible for experienced mechanics.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 12,000+ owners who fixed this issue

TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $2,500-$4,000 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
TipSearch Toyota Tundra 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
UpgradeHigh-quality synthetic oil helps reduce consumption and protect worn engines (Mobil 1 Extended Performance Full Synthetic Motor Oil)
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UpgradePremium oil filter ensures proper filtration with high-mileage engines (Wix Oil Filter)
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Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $4,000

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12,000+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence12,000 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

8,500 owners

On the 2005-2013 Toyota Tundra, the secondary air injection pump is prone to failure due to water intrusion. The electric motor is located in the wheel well with moisture exposure, and the rubber boot covering the motor traps water, causing the pump to short circuit. This triggers check engine lights with codes P2440, P2443, P2445, P2447, P0418, or P0419. Some vehicles may enter limp mode.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Express, Dodge Dakota, Jeep Commander

Common Symptoms

Check engine light illumination
Jet engine noise on cold startup
Decreased fuel economy
Limp mode activation
Rough idle when cold

How to Fix

Toyota issued a service bulletin for 2007-2010 models covering replacement of the entire air injection system. Repair costs range from $2,000-$4,000 for OEM replacement. Some owners opt for aftermarket bypass kits with block-off plates.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 8,500+ owners who fixed this issue

TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $2,000-$4,000 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
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
UpgradeBluetooth OBD-II scanner for reading engine codes and monitoring live data (BlueDriver Bluetooth OBD2 Diagnostic Scan Tool)
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UpgradeQuality synthetic oil and filter combo for engine maintenance (Mobil 1 Full Synthetic Oil and Filter Bundle)
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Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $4,000

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8,500+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence8,500 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

7,500 owners

On the 2007-2019 Toyota Tundra, toyota Tundra V8 engines are prone to exhaust manifold cracking, particularly on the driver side where the air injection tube weld enters the manifold. Additionally, exhaust manifold bolts can corrode and break, causing exhaust leaks. The ticking noise is most noticeable at cold startup.

This issue also affects: BMW 5 Series, BMW 6 Series, BMW 7 Series

Common Symptoms

Ticking noise at cold startup
Exhaust smell in cabin
Hissing sound from engine bay
Reduced fuel economy
Failed emissions test

How to Fix

Repair options include welding cracks (temporary), replacing with OEM manifolds ($800-$1,500), or upgrading to aftermarket headers ($1,000-$2,500). Broken bolts require extraction. Total repair costs range from $500 to $3,000+.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 7,500+ owners who fixed this issue

TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $800-$1,500 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
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
UpgradeExhaust manifold gasket set seals exhaust leaks at the head (Fel-Pro Exhaust Manifold Gasket Set)
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UpgradeExhaust manifold stud kit replaces broken or corroded studs (Dorman Exhaust Manifold Stud Kit)
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Typical repair cost:$500 - $3,000

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7,500+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High Confidence7,500 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Community Reported

4,500 owners

On the 2007-2012 Toyota Tundra 5.7L V8, the 5.7L V8 water pump is prone to premature failure, often occurring between 40,000-70,000 miles. The water pump uses a spring-loaded seal that can fail, and internal bearing failure is common. If not addressed, this can lead to engine overheating and severe damage.

This issue also affects: Audi A4 allroad, Audi A7, Audi A8

Common Symptoms

Coolant leak under vehicle
Growling noise at idle
Engine overheating
Low coolant warning light
Sweet smell of coolant

How to Fix

Replace the water pump along with thermostat, coolant, and serpentine belt as preventive maintenance. OEM water pump replacement costs $400-$800 including labor.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 4,500+ owners who fixed this issue

TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $400-$800 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
TipReplace the water pump along with thermostat, coolant, and serpentine belt as preventive maintenance.
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
UpgradeReliable water pump replacement to restore proper coolant circulation (Gates Water Pump)
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UpgradePre-mixed coolant ready for top-off or full flush (Prestone Extended Life Antifreeze Coolant)
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Typical repair cost:$400 - $800

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4,500+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

Medium Confidence4,500 reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Toyota Tundra problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 52,500+ owner reports, the 2012-2012 Toyota Tundra has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak, Cam Tower Oil Leak, Secondary Air Injection Pump Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Toyota Tundra reliable?

The 2012-2012 Toyota Tundra has 5 known issues documented across 52,500+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Toyota Tundra problems?

Repair costs for known Toyota Tundra issues range from $0 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak, typically costs $0-$1,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak?

Toyota recalled 2007-2021 Tundra vehicles due to defects in the power steering gear assembly that can cause oil leaks. When power steering fluid leaks from the assembly, it can result in sudden loss of power steering assist while driving. Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra Cam Tower Oil Leak?

The 5.7L iForce V8 engine is known for developing oil leaks at the cam tower due to Toyota's use of gray RTV silicone sealant instead of a proper gasket from the factory. The sealant degrades over time, particularly at the rear of the cam towers where the engine is slanted. Repairs typically run $2,500-$4,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2005-2013 Toyota Tundra Secondary Air Injection Pump Failure?

The secondary air injection pump is prone to failure due to water intrusion. The electric motor is located in the wheel well with moisture exposure, and the rubber boot covering the motor traps water, causing the pump to short circuit. This triggers check engine lights with codes… Repairs typically run $1,500-$4,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2007-2019 Toyota Tundra Exhaust Manifold Cracking and Bolt Failure?

Toyota Tundra V8 engines are prone to exhaust manifold cracking, particularly on the driver side where the air injection tube weld enters the manifold. Additionally, exhaust manifold bolts can corrode and break, causing exhaust leaks. The ticking noise is most noticeable at cold… Repairs typically run $500-$3,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2007-2012 Toyota Tundra Water Pump Bearing and Seal Failure?

The 5.7L V8 water pump is prone to premature failure, often occurring between 40,000-70,000 miles. The water pump uses a spring-loaded seal that can fail, and internal bearing failure is common. If not addressed, this can lead to engine overheating and severe damage. Repairs typically run $400-$800. Severity: medium.

2012 Toyota Tundra Problems: 5 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 5 Known Issues

2007-2021 Toyota Tundra: Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2007-2021 Toyota Tundra: Cam Tower Oil Leak#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2005-2013 Toyota Tundra: Secondary Air Injection Pump Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2007-2019 Toyota Tundra: Exhaust Manifold Cracking and Bolt Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

2007-2012 Toyota Tundra: Water Pump Bearing and Seal Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

Research This Issue

Other Toyota Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Toyota Tundra problems?

Is the Toyota Tundra reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Toyota Tundra problems?

What is the 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak?

What is the 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra Cam Tower Oil Leak?

What is the 2005-2013 Toyota Tundra Secondary Air Injection Pump Failure?

What is the 2007-2019 Toyota Tundra Exhaust Manifold Cracking and Bolt Failure?

What is the 2007-2012 Toyota Tundra Water Pump Bearing and Seal Failure?