Best & Worst Toyota Tacoma Years: Model Years To Avoid

From its launch in 1995 until its release today, we have categorized the Toyota Tacoma’s best and worst years.

Using all generations of the Toyota Tacoma, I have identified the best years to buy Tacomas and the worst years to avoid.

Based on trusted sources such as the NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and VehicleHistory, the chart below shows Toyota Tacoma’s reliability scores and owner complaints.

Each Toyota Tacoma model is described in detail, including powertrain options, technological capabilities, and safety features.

It’s time to get started!

Toyota Tacoma Generations

Since 1995, Toyota Tacoma has been a leader in the competitive midsize truck market. As a result of its compact size, affordability, and ruggedness, the first generation attracted both casual drivers and enthusiasts.

To help you understand the Toyota Tacoma generations starting in 1995, here is a list:

Whether or not a potential buyer will purchase a product depends on technological advances, design changes, or performance tweaks between generations.

Toyota Tacoma Best, Neutral, and Worst Years

In ranking and categorizing the best and worst years of the Toyota Tacoma, we consider many factors, including the following:

• The owner’s reliability report (survey)
• An annual breakdown of maintenance costs
• Defining safety ratings
• According to Consumer Reports, they are reliable
• According to Consumer Reports, owner satisfaction is high
• NHTSA recalls, investigations, and complaints
• Ratings on Edmunds by owners
• JD Power’s ratings for owners
• The Kelley Blue Book’s owner ratings
• VehicleHistory owner ratings
• Reviews on Cars.com by owners

In the table below, we rank all Toyota Tacoma model years from best to worst.

The term refers to years that didn’t stand out as remarkably reliable or remarkably problematic. This is a comfortable middle ground between the Toyota Tacoma’s best and worst years.

Vehicle reliability can be negatively affected by certain factors, such as NHTSA recalls. The more complaints and recalls a car receives, the less trustworthy it becomes among consumers and experts.

The Toyota Tacoma has three best years, a neutral year, and a bad year (in this article).

Best & Worst Years for Toyota Tacoma 4th Generation [2024 to Present]

Introducing the fourth-generation Toyota Tacoma in May 2023, it combines rugged appearances with cutting-edge technology.

Tacomas are built on the same TNGA-F global body-on-frame technology that underpins Toyota Tundras (XK70s).

The Best Years: 2024

In the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, two engines are offered, the 2.4L turbocharged T24A-FTS engine and the 2.4L turbocharged T24A-FTS engine, depending on the trim level and transmission.

With 326 horsepower and 465 pounds-feet of torque, the hybrid version of the i-Force Max offers impressive power and torque. There are some trims with manual transmissions, but most engines are paired with automatic transmissions.

Customers can choose from a variety of trim options offered by the company. From the SR to the SR5, there are six models carried over, including the TRD Sport and Off-Road. Among the new trims are the Trailhunter, geared toward overlanding, and the TRD PreRunner, geared toward off-roading.

This model has IsoDynamic seats, Fox Factory racing shocks, and larger dimensions than the SR5. With its snorkel engine air intake and bronze accents, the Trailhunter’s suspension is formed by Old Man Emu suspension components. A rear-wheel drive XtraCab body is the only body type available for the TRD PreRunner.

This vehicle uses high-strength steel laser-welded for greater rigidity, and aluminum body panels for weight reduction.

Best & Worst Years for Toyota Tacoma 3rd Generation [2016 to 2023]

Tacoma’s third generation was developed in 2016, bringing technological advancements and improved safety and quality to its interior.

A third-generation Toyota Tacoma should not be purchased in 2016, but in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.

The Best Years: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023

What is the reliability of the most recent Tacoma models? Based on its latest powertrain options, technological advancements, and safety features, we conclude that Toyota Tacoma will be at its best between 2020 and 2023.

Besides the 2.7L 2TR-FE I4, an impressive 3.5L 2GR-FKS V6 was also available. V6-powered vehicles were capable of producing 278 horsepower at maximum.

A manual RC62F transmission or an automatic 6-speed transmission was available, offering fuel efficiency and performance.

On the advanced infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard.

Toyota’s Safety Sense P suite, which includes adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, emphasizes safety at all times.

The Tacoma engineering and safety functions, as well as consumer feedback, were demonstrated during these years.

The Neutral Years: 2017, 2018, 2019

From 2017 through 2019, Toyota Tacoma delivered a balanced performance.

Furthermore, these models included digital features such as touchscreen infotainment systems in addition to commendable engine options.

For safety, the vehicle also includes blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts.

The challenges continued despite this. Brake master cylinder seals were damaged in the 2018 and 2019 models, reducing braking performance.

Despite offering significant improvements and being far from problematic, these Toyota Tacoma model years cannot be considered “best.”

The Worst Years: 2016

There were engine, transmission, and electrical problems with the third-generation Tacoma despite its debut year.

What are the problems and recalls associated with the 2016 Toyota Tacoma? The timing chain cover leaks oil, the engine stalls, gears slip, and the vehicle jerks excessively, according to many owners.

The truck was subject to a number of recalls, including issues related to the crankshaft position sensor and oil leaks within the rear differential.

Despite its advanced features and redesigned exterior, I recommend steering clear of the 2016 Toyota Tacoma due to its recurring technical issues.

Best & Worst Years for Toyota Tacoma 2nd Generation [2005 to 2015]

The second generation Tacoma was introduced by Toyota in 2005, improving upon the strengths of its predecessor while correcting previous issues.

For the second generation Toyota Tacoma, 2005-2010 is a period you should avoid at all costs. There are few better and more reliable vehicles than a Toyota Tacoma of 2013-2015.

The Best Years: 2013, 2014, 2015

How do I know when to buy a Toyota Tacoma? It is undeniable that 2013, 2014, and 2015 were the best years for the second generation Tacoma. A combination of recalls, owner complaints, and resale values is used to determine this.

It was available with either a 2.7L 2TR-FE I4 with 159 horsepower or a more powerful 4.0L 1GR-FE V6 with 236 horsepower. Fuel efficiency ranged from 17 to 23 miles per gallon (4.0L and 2.7L).

There were also five-speed manual transmissions, six-speed manual transmissions, and four-speed automatic transmissions featured on these models.

Each trim level had advanced safety and infotainment features, as well as creature comforts.

As far as the Tacoma lineage is concerned, these years are among the best because of fewer recalls and better build quality.

The Neutral Years: 2011, 2012

Both 2011 and 2012 Tacomas received praise and criticism.

Its engine lineup from earlier years offered the same level of performance and versatility.

By updating the audio system and making minor interior changes, the user experience was enhanced. Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control are part of Toyota’s Star Safety System.

However, these years were not without challenges. In the 2012 Toyota Tacoma, the frame deteriorated further and the engine had problems, specifically with the secondary air injection system, which was evident mainly by the “Check Engine” light.

ABS and ESC were disabled by brake actuator failures in the 2012 and 2013 models.

Additionally, drivetrain vibrations were a concern. As reflected in these mixed reviews, there is a balance between reliability and challenges.

The Worst Years: 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010

What were the worst years for the Toyota Tacoma? Toyota Tacomas from the second generation, 2005 to 2010, had a lot of problems, so it is best to avoid them.

In 2005, 2006, and 2007, Toyota Tacoma models suffered from frame corrosion, resulting in suspension and steering problems. Leaf springs cracked due to corrosion, and accelerator pedals became stuck. Several recalls were required.

Transmission problems, including fractured driveshafts, were caused by corrosion in the 2007, 2008, and 2009 editions.

As a result of corrosion issues, the 2010 Toyota Tacoma was recalled for heated seats and tire pressure monitoring.

These have been the most challenging years for the second-generation Tacoma.

Best & Worst Years for Toyota Tacoma 1st Generation [1995 to 2004]

The Toyota Tacoma is a successor to the Toyota Hilux, which was released in 1995 and is one of the most recognizable trucks in the world today. Toyota’s reputation for durability is combined with modern aesthetics and functionality.

Due to their age and reliability issues, 1995 and 1996 are best avoided altogether.

The Best Years: 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004

In terms of owner complaints, recall history, and affordability, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 are undoubtedly the best years for the first-generation Toyota Tacoma.

A 2.4L 2RZ-FE I4 engine could deliver 142 horsepower, a 2.7L 3RZ-FE I4 could deliver 150 horsepower, and a 3.4L 5VZ-FE V6 could deliver 190 horsepower on Tacoma models from 2000 to 2004.

Transmission options may include a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual depending on the engine. Fuel economy for the 3.5L V6 variant was 17 city/22 highway.

In addition, the PreRunner trim level offered an additional amount of space, while the Xtra Cab trim level showcased a longer roofline ideal for off-roading.

Other technological and safety enhancements included anti-lock brakes and electronic brakeforce distribution.

Although these advancements have been made, several owners have still noticed frame corrosion, particularly in salty regions.

The Neutral Years: 1997, 1998, 1999

The performance of the first-generation Tacoma was balanced in 1997, 1998, and 1999.

In these models, there was an option for either a 2.4L I4 or 3.4L V6 engine. V6 models achieve 17 city and 21 highway mpg in terms of fuel consumption.

The Toyota Tacoma was available in four-wheel drive variants for off-road enthusiasts, and in SR5 trim levels for enthusiasts seeking a more luxurious interior.

Toyota’s vehicles now feature passenger-side airbags and improved side-impact protection.

Although this was the case, there were still issues. Various problems have been reported, including corroded subframes, inconsistent brake performance, and vibrations.

The Worst Years: 1995, 1996

Owner complaints and recalls on the first-generation Toyota Tacoma are highest in 1995 and 1996.

Teething problems plagued them. There was primarily a problem with the suspension – cracked lower ball joints and extensive corrosion made the vehicle quite unreliable.

Toyota Tacomas from 1996 have been reported to have failed head gaskets.

These models not only set the foundations for Tacoma, but also taught what improvements were needed.

Common Toyota Tacoma Issues

Model years that have more problems than average aren’t always the right choice for you. Identifying the problem and its severity is important before buying a new Tacoma. 

In the Toyota Tacoma years, follow these tips to avoid some of the most common problems.

Not Shifting Correctly

One of Tacoma’s biggest problems is its tendency to shift incorrectly. You can run into serious problems on the road if you suddenly switch to a more powerful vehicle or reverse. 

It appears that the 2016 and 2017 models had this issue, but more recent models appear to have resolved it. 

Sticky Accelerators

When driving on highways or roads with unplanned acceleration, you may experience sticky accelerator problems. We have encountered one of the most severe problems because that is pretty much all roads. 

Since the accelerator issue was most serious in 2007 models, it was mostly resolved a long time ago. You shouldn’t have any trouble buying an older or more recent Tacoma. 

Clear Coat Peeling And Cracking

For this common Tacoma issue, paint issues are usually cosmetic rather than functional. In most cases, peeling paint does not affect the operation of the vehicle; however, you may want to consider re-painting it if this occurs. 

An interesting aspect of this problem is the cracking or peeling of the clear coat. As a result, any issues with the body panel beneath the paint may be hidden by the paint, so the color may remain intact. 

This issue may turn into a functional problem instead of just cosmetic. You may need to address rust or other issues sooner rather than later if you later decide to paint your Tacoma. 

Excessive Driving Vibration

Even if the vibrations don’t seem serious, some situations can cause severe vibrations while driving. The driving vibrations of some Tacoma models can be so severe that the vehicle cannot be controlled in some cases. 

If you’re driving for a long period of time or over a long distance, excessive vibration can cause driver fatigue.

Issues With Lower Ball Joint

A number of Toyota Tacoma owners and forum users have complained about prematurely worn lower ball joints. Many customers have reported experiencing this problem, including uneven tire wear, cabin vibrations, loose steering, and irregular sounds. Tacoma’s lower ball joint may disengage from the suspension if it fails, resulting in a loss of control.

This particular issue was found to be caused by the lower ball joint between 1995 and 2007. Tacoma models were recalled from 2001 to 2004 by Toyota.

Faulty Air Flow Meter

Another common issue with Toyota Tacomas is mass air flow or MAF. Symptoms of a bad MAF on a Toyota Tacoma include poor acceleration, loss of power, engine hesitations, misfires, and poor exhaust emissions. On the Tacoma, dirt tends to accumulate on the MAF sensor. If the problem persists after cleaning, you might need a new sensor. Tacomas built between 1996 and 2013 are particularly affected.

The Best Toyota Tacoma Models To Buy Used

Buying a used vehicle can be challenging. It is best to buy a car that has a solid maintenance record, hasn’t been in any significant accidents, and is in less-than-ideal condition. There are, however, some used Toyota Tacomas that perform better than others. The following are some factors to consider when buying a used Tacoma. 

You can choose from a variety of first-generation Tacoma models from 1994-2005 if you don’t mind a little home maintenance. These trucks are still excellent choices for consumers today because of their durability and hardworking nature. 

Second-generation Tacomas are available in 2010 and 2008 at reasonable prices. Second-generation Tacomas have a few more problems than other models. Despite this, they have fewer problems reported and have good performance ratings compared to other models. 

For the most recent models of Tacoma, the 2018 and 2019 models both offer great value and modern features.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Toyota Tacoma Years to Avoid

Conclusion

Based on the extensive history of the Toyota Tacoma, we find that the 2013-2015 and 2020-2023 models are the most reliable and feature-rich models, making them ideal choices for buyers.

Considering what we found in our analysis, what would you rank as the best Toyota Tacoma years?

Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!

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