2023 Toyota Tacoma Problems & Owner Complaints

Electrical System 10 1 fire

“The owner and operator of the vehicle, stated that they were driving the vehicle on the Interstate when they noticed white smoke and ashes emanating from the steering column. They pulled into the parking lot to investigate and opened the hood to see no smoke or fire. When they returned to the passenger compartment, the smoke turned black in color, and they observed fire emanating from the steering column. I am the Lead Fire Investigator on this incident for the Edmond Fire Department. The electrical components in the area observed with fire contained electrical arc sites and melting. No othe…”
NHTSA complaint #11661898, 2025 · fire

“On February 16 I started my vehicle to drive home from work and the vehicle threw multiple error codes and shutdown while driving and would not start again. It was towed to the dealership. The dealership advised the problem was remedied. 11 days later the same problem occurred, vehicle threw multiple error codes and shutdown while driving. Vehicle needed to be towed again to the dealership.”
NHTSA complaint #11722923, 2026

“On June 20, 2025, my 2023 Toyota Tacoma (VIN [XXX] ed a sudden loss of effective braking during normal driving conditions (dry roadway, clear weather). The vehicle was being driven by my adult son. While slowing for a turn, the instrument cluster displayed a Pre-Collision System (PCS) malfunction warning and a Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) warning. The Driver applied the brake pedal continuously, but the vehicle did no decelerate as expected. ABS did not activate, and braking effectiveness was insufficient. During braking, the driver experienced reduced steering responsiveness. In or…”
NHTSA complaint #11705080, 2025

Unknown Or Other 9 1 crash 1 injury

“2023 Toyota Tacoma's doors are not holding in the open position on a 10 degree pitch of our driveway, slamming shut on the legs of the driver. Passenger side doors are holding open fine, but the driver side doors are closing on me in the driveway. When I took it to the Toyota dealership, I am told that this perfectly fine. Meanwhile, we have never had this problem with any of our other vehicles, since we've lived in this home from 2005. Can you please tell me what is the pitch that the doors are required to hold by law? The dealership is of no help, and my left leg is constantly covered in b…”
NHTSA complaint #11540191, 2023 · 1 injury(ies)

“Air Bags (Driver and Passenger Curtain Airbags) no other airbags deployed. Been in repair since 3/8/26. Currently 4/21/26. Insurance already sent Body Shop money. Parts on National Backorder and Manufacturer Switch has not been determined yet by Toyota. Truck will not be released back to me until the repair is completed per email. I need adequate transportation provided to continue going to and from work. My insurance has maxed its coverage and cannot extend. I should not be out of pocket more than I already am while waiting on a part that is not in my control. Accident: I hydroplaned and…”
NHTSA complaint #11732718, 2026 · crash

“61/2 INCH SCREEN WENT BLANK on start up. Did not reappear until I got home and stopped and restarted car engine. Have on occasions there is no tire pressure showing when i checked that screen.”
NHTSA complaint #11689165, 2025

Air Bags 8 5 crash 4 injury

“Only the side window airbags deployed during a collision. There was no protection from the front impact. Insurance representatives have the vehicle and we are waiting to hear about the outcome. While in the car pool lane traveling approximately 65mph, a Honda civic left the lane to the right of us and veered directly into our lane. I applied the brakes as hard as I could, but did not swerve due to fear of rolling into the opposite direction of traffic. His back driver side came into my front passenger side at the immediate collision and then we flipped onto the driver side and slid for quite a…”
NHTSA complaint #11747822, 2026 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“The contact owned a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 75-80 MPH, he fell asleep behind the wheel when the vehicle proceeded through a wired fence and crashed into a tree. The air bags failed to deploy. The contact sustained soreness to his neck. No medical attention was required however, the contact stated that he went to see a doctor the following day. A police report was filed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot and deemed a total loss by the insurance company. The dealer nor the manufacturer were notified of…”
NHTSA complaint #11542736, 2023 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“My vehicle was T-boned while driving through an intersection. After being hit, my vehicle continued moving forward, but the brakes would not engage or work. I pressed them several times and as firmly as possible, but the vehicle would not stop or slow down. As I approached a nearby curb, I pulled the emergency brake, which slowed down my vehicle slightly before colliding head-on with a fire hydrant and utility pole. The impact completely totaled the vehicle, yet the airbags did not deploy. Bottom line, in period of a few seconds, the brakes completely failed and the airbags did not deploy.…”
NHTSA complaint #11519541, 2023 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Engine 8

“Oil cap went loosed and fell off after a few hundred miles of driving. This is a very common thing in 2023 Toyota tacoma.”
NHTSA complaint #11721783, 2026

“Deep knocking noise they call the taco tick is actually the a problem with the motor. There is an issue valve train and timing chain, tensioners and pulleys. Toyota USA decide to tell all consumers it’s just the way they sound. So they do not have to repair millions of these trucks on recall they refuse to repair under manufacture warranty or power train warranty they wait until it becomes the consumers problem”
NHTSA complaint #11710839, 2025

“Engine began making abnormal ticking noise, heard primarily on the passenger side of vehicle. Upon removal of valve cover for inspection, found that there are chunks of camshafts breaking off causing the noise. Appears to be a manufacturing defect. Local dealer said they have seen this issue before. This issue could result in catastrophic engine failure and/or loss of power and cause a crash. My truck has 70k miles on it, regularly maintained and operated.”
NHTSA complaint #11665637, 2025

Steering 8

“While checking wiper fluid levels for 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off Road, noticed power steering fluid was below minimum line. No leaks were noticed on the ground where the vehicle is normally parked, underneath the reservoir or along the hoses related to the power steering system. Upon inspecting the tie rod boots, it was noticed that they appeared to be holding fluid, due to signs of moisture on the exterior of the boots. Vehicle was taken to the dealership where purchased. Vehicle was purchased November 2022 and now has approximately 52,000 miles). The dealership service department determined…”
NHTSA complaint #11744147, 2026

“On June 20, 2025, my 2023 Toyota Tacoma (VIN [XXX] ed a sudden loss of effective braking during normal driving conditions (dry roadway, clear weather). The vehicle was being driven by my adult son. While slowing for a turn, the instrument cluster displayed a Pre-Collision System (PCS) malfunction warning and a Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) warning. The Driver applied the brake pedal continuously, but the vehicle did no decelerate as expected. ABS did not activate, and braking effectiveness was insufficient. During braking, the driver experienced reduced steering responsiveness. In or…”
NHTSA complaint #11705080, 2025

“The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being serviced, the contact was informed that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced due to an oil leak. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the speedometer gauge failed to function as intended. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the instrument panel had a factory defect. The vehicle was repaired. In addition, the contact was informed that the rear axle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was…”
NHTSA complaint #11676732, 2025

Power Train 6

“The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for the recall repair of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V152000 (Power Train). The contact became aware of a weld splatter and that the nuts were rusted. The dealer marked the vehicle repaired; however, the contact stated that the repair was not completed. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, where the nuts and bolts were replaced. The contact stated that the torque spec was incorrect. The dealer provided a video of the work order for the repair. The dealer informed the contact that rust could develop on the…”
NHTSA complaint #11703876, 2025

“The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being serviced, the contact was informed that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced due to an oil leak. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the speedometer gauge failed to function as intended. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the instrument panel had a factory defect. The vehicle was repaired. In addition, the contact was informed that the rear axle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was…”
NHTSA complaint #11676732, 2025

“This concerns a non-complete recall #24V152. The dealership has had the vehicle for over 60-days.”
NHTSA complaint #11603525, 2024

Service Brakes 5 1 crash 1 injury

“My vehicle was T-boned while driving through an intersection. After being hit, my vehicle continued moving forward, but the brakes would not engage or work. I pressed them several times and as firmly as possible, but the vehicle would not stop or slow down. As I approached a nearby curb, I pulled the emergency brake, which slowed down my vehicle slightly before colliding head-on with a fire hydrant and utility pole. The impact completely totaled the vehicle, yet the airbags did not deploy. Bottom line, in period of a few seconds, the brakes completely failed and the airbags did not deploy.…”
NHTSA complaint #11519541, 2023 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“On June 20, 2025, my 2023 Toyota Tacoma (VIN [XXX] ed a sudden loss of effective braking during normal driving conditions (dry roadway, clear weather). The vehicle was being driven by my adult son. While slowing for a turn, the instrument cluster displayed a Pre-Collision System (PCS) malfunction warning and a Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) warning. The Driver applied the brake pedal continuously, but the vehicle did no decelerate as expected. ABS did not activate, and braking effectiveness was insufficient. During braking, the driver experienced reduced steering responsiveness. In or…”
NHTSA complaint #11705080, 2025

“Brake booster failure. When pressing and holding onto brake, it makes a buzzing/clicking noise. Just like the toyota prius brake booster recall/failure. Toyota claimed to be normal.”
NHTSA complaint #11650622, 2025

Exterior Lighting 2

“Headlight tabs break causing housing to rub against body and crack. Additionally it makes headlights move which necessitates constant readjustment.”
NHTSA complaint #11750712, 2024

“Wiring harness on the vehicle is being completely replaced due to "rodent damage" according to the dealer. I am not an automotive engineer but if compromised wiring finally fails while driving I suspect a number of systems could be affected. There was no indication of this problem during vehicle operations. My insurance company agreed to pay for this about $7200. I have owned the vehicle for ten months.”
NHTSA complaint #11572480, 2024

Suspension 2

“I received a recall notice saying that welding debris on the rear axle could cause bolts to loosen resulting in parts falling off the truck and crashing. I have called servco Toyota Honolulu service department 3 separate times. Talked to a number of managers and representatives. The first time they said they cannot do the recall yet and are waiting for parts and procedures, would not give me a date and said I cannot schedule a service appointment. In the recall it is clearly laid out to inspect and retighten bolts, and replace any damaged parts. I asked why they cannot inspect my truck and ret…”
NHTSA complaint #11575419, 2024

“Experience steering wheel vibrations between speeds of 60 mph and 80 mph - have taken vehicle to dealership and they have confirmed problem but said it was a characteristic condition of the suspension on vehicle. It is highly distracting when operating a motor vehicle at freeway speeds and with out warning the steering wheel starts shaking back and forth. Dealership has rebalanced and rotated tires 5 times and performed vehicle alignment - recently they changed the tire and loading information decal which changed the air pressure from 36psi down to 29 psi (did not tell me about that) vehicle…”
NHTSA complaint #11536202, 2022

Visibility/Wiper 2

“Passenger side windshield washer nozzle sprays the lower part of the hood. Only a little of the stream reaches the windshield. Outcome is that dust, grime, debris typically smear on passenger side of the windshield. This causes reduced visibility. Truck is a Toyota Certified Pre-Owned (TPO) delivered 18Mar24 at 13K miles. Washer nozzle problem has been existent since delivery. Repair request was made at first oil change. Unlike many other brands & makes, the nozzle can't be re-aimed by simple bending. Problem could be solved by using a nozzle with a lower "aim," or some sort of adjustment.…”
NHTSA complaint #11675828, 2024

“The camera system is sub par. The video is grainy fuzzy and jumpy. It looks as though you are looking through a dark tunnel. Much worse that my 2021. Service advisor agrees the clarity and quality was unacceptable. The head unit was replaced but nothing changed. TAS case [XXX] was opened. Tech states quality was the same as other 2022 Tacomas when compared. I guess if everyone’s is the same that makes it ok. I feel the quality of the video might be 200x300 and is unsafe at this quality. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)”
NHTSA complaint #11551985, 2023

Back Over Prevention 1

“The camera is horrible. Very gritty and grainy I took it to the dealership they agreed. Tried replacing but it is still bad. I previously owned a 2020 Rav 4 and the camera was very crisp and clear. Camera should be just as good if not better for a truck. They have more blind spots. This has been an issue since I purchased the vehicle in December 2023 which is only about 5 months.”
NHTSA complaint #11580912, 2024

Engine And Engine Cooling 1

“The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while reversing, the RPM and engine surged while turning the steering wheel. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who informed the contact that there was no coverage for the failure of the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to TSB: 0125-18. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 300.”
NHTSA complaint #11591263, 2023

Forward Collision Avoidance 1

“Twice, while backing out of my driveway, the brakes have locked up. The brakes stay locked until you tap them repetitively for a few minutes. Then the brakes will slowly release while going forward, but only lock up again when put in reverse. The vehicle cannot be driven until the next day, then it performs normally. luckily this happened in my driveway before I got on to the street. When the brakes lock, it is violent, throwing me against the seat back. The vehicle has been to two different dealers, but they could not duplicate the issue. When this happens multiple brake warning messages pop…”
NHTSA complaint #11614713, 2024

Fuel/Propulsion System 1

“On February 16 I started my vehicle to drive home from work and the vehicle threw multiple error codes and shutdown while driving and would not start again. It was towed to the dealership. The dealership advised the problem was remedied. 11 days later the same problem occurred, vehicle threw multiple error codes and shutdown while driving. Vehicle needed to be towed again to the dealership.”
NHTSA complaint #11722923, 2026

Latches/Locks/Linkages 1

“Driver's door unlatched during the winter (January 2025) while stopping at an intersection. The incident repeated yesterday April 19, 2025, while driving on the freeway and turning right. The door partially opened and a warning light appeared on the dashboard. Reduced speed / stopped, to be able to completely open the door and close again. The vehicle has approximately 25,200 miles. Vehicle is being taken to a Toyota dealer to have the door latch inspected and to try to reproduce the failure mode. No explanation needed on why a door unlatching on its own, while cruising on a freeway, is a safe…”
NHTSA complaint #11655670, 2025

Seats 1

“The front driver's seat is loose and has movement/play. Described by dealer service tech as a 'wobble'. Seat is not fully secure/stable. Vehicle was taken to original delivery dealer (Dublin Toyota, 4321 Toyota Dr, Dublin CA 94568) for inspection, RO#[XXX]. The vehicle was returned without the issue being corrected. Received verbal response that the dealer was not able to do anything about it (incl replacement of components, etc. and was told other 2023 Model Year Tacomas exhibit the same behavior of the loose driver's seat). Called and spoke with Toyota Brand Engagement (800) 331-4331 a…”
NHTSA complaint #11579543, 2024

Visibility 1

“Passenger Side windshield wiper fluid sprayer. It sprays the top of the vehicle hood during operation preventing fluid from the sprayer reaching the windshield. Prevents potential debris from being cleared off the windshield whether dirt, mud, and bugs or Ice and snow in the winter. The dealer confirmed that 2/3 2023 Toyota Tacoma's on the lot had a similar problem and Toyota had no available fix. A fix was attempted by Maguire Toyota on Grand Island NY. Unsuccessful they attempted to contact a Toyota Rep and have no solution available. No warning lamps or messages illuminate.”
NHTSA complaint #11532114, 2023