What model year Toyota Tacoma should you avoid when shopping for a used truck?
Are you considering buying a used Toyota Tacoma? With the Tacoma’s reputation for reliability and go-anywhere ruggedness, it is one of the best options for a used mid-sized truck. The used Toyota Tacoma market can be a bit crazy with sellers being a little TOO proud of their high milage used Tacos. Before you get serious about spending good money for a used vehicle, consider which years of the Toyota Tacoma have had the best reliability to ensure your purchase is good. We are here to guide you in choosing the most reliable years of the Toyota Tacoma trucks and also highlight the years that should be avoided. The Toyota Tacoma has a long history, starting from its debut in 1995, and has gained popularity due to its off-road capabilities and trusted reliability. However, not all model years are created equal when it comes to reliability and potential issues.
If you’re looking for a used Toyota Tacoma with minimal problems and a solid track record, I recommend focusing on the following model years:
Most Reliable Toyota Tacoma Model Years:
First Generation Toyota Tacoma
Most reliable years of production: 1996-2004
Second Generation Toyota Tacoma
Most reliable years of production: 2010, 2013-2015
Third Generation Toyota Tacoma
Most reliable years of production: 2018-2020
Tacomas from 1995 to 2004 have proven highly reliable, with very few reported complaints. Most issues that have been reported are minor defects and typically don’t become problematic until after reaching an average of 100,000 miles. There’s a slight chance of a flaw appearing within the first 50,000 miles, but if that happens, they are usually sub $500 minor issues to fix.
The 2014, 2018, and 2019 Tacoma models are still considered reliable options but are slightly less dependable than the earlier models. These years may have similar defect rates, but the issues tend to appear earlier in their lifespan.
On the other hand, certain Toyota Tacoma model years should be avoided due to reported problems and reliability concerns. I recommend steering clear of the following years:
Toyota Tacoma Least Reliable Model Years:
– 2006 Toyota Tacoma
– 2007 Toyota Tacoma
– 2008 Toyota Tacoma
– 2009 Toyota Tacoma
– 2011 Toyota Tacoma
– 2012 Toyota Tacoma
– 2016 Toyota Tacoma
– 2017 Toyota Tacoma
The 2006, 2007, and 2008 Tacoma models have issues with paint chipping and peeling and potential transmission and engine failures. The 2006 model is particularly prone to frame rust or breakage at around 100,000 miles, which can be a costly repair.
The 2007 model has been associated with various problems, including sticky accelerators, peeling coats, and more, resulting in repair costs ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 in many cases. The 2008 and 2009 Tacoma models may experience early issues that are less expensive but potentially more dangerous, such as sudden acceleration and clutch slipping.
The 2009 model year is known for interior accessories that are prone to faults and frequent malfunctions, along with various issues related to lights, body, and engine components.
Complaints about the 2011 Toyota Tacoma span across nearly every aspect of the vehicle, indicating widespread problems in various components. The 2011 Tacoma has frequent complaints regarding headlights, with issues like flickering, cracked covers, and a repetitive clicking sound. The 2012 models are known for engine defects and heavy vibrations while driving, with problems arising around 30,000 miles.
As for the 2016 and 2017 models, they share similar malfunctions, including unreliable transmissions, making them among the least desirable Toyota Tacomas to purchase. The transmission defects in these models can pose potential hazards while driving. The 2016 and 2017 Tacoma models should be avoided due to safety concerns. Both have numerous reports of transmission flaws, and the 2016 model is notorious for a faulty engine. These trucks have been known to exhibit wandering and improper shifting, especially in cold weather conditions.
The safest and most reliable Toyota Tacoma year models for a used purchase are the ones listed above. However, if you come across a 2020 Tacoma, it’s considered the safest overall as it has the fewest reliability issues noted. These trucks typically hold their value but if you can stretch to buy a low milage 2020 Toyota Tacoma it is an investment that will last you for years to come.