RoadVitals

2006 Toyota Tacoma

Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
782
Latest Apr 22, 2026
Safety recallsA safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or NHTSA determines that a vehicle has a safety-related defect or does not comply with a federal motor vehicle safety standard. Recall repairs are free. Whether a specific vehicle is covered depends on its VIN — a recall listed for a model year does not necessarily apply to every vehicle of that year.
11
Latest Jun 2, 2016
InvestigationsNHTSA opens an investigation to examine whether a safety defect may exist. An open investigation is not a determination that a defect exists, and many investigations close without a recall. Investigations can, however, lead to one.
1
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
73
31 injuries, 0 deaths reported

Overview

Our database contains 782 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2006 Toyota Tacoma, most frequently naming the body & structure, suspension and driver assistance categories. 11 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; 1 NHTSA investigation names it; and 329 manufacturer communications are on file.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

What owners report

Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Safety recalls

11 campaigns cover this model year

Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.

Check a VIN on NHTSA.gov

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER

Jun 2, 2016
7,749 units potentially affected
The defect: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2005-2011 4Runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla vehicles equipped with aftermarket accessory seat heaters with a copper strand heating element. The electrical wiring in the seat heaters may be damaged when the seat cushion is compressed.
The risk: If damaged, the copper strand heating element may short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
The remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the seat heaters, free of charge, and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory. The recall began on July 14, 2016. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226. SET number for this recall is SET16B.
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLCManufacturer number SET16BView on NHTSA.gov

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER

Nov 19, 2014
3,233 units potentially affected
The defect: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain model year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4x2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4x2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4Runner. The affected vehicles may experience compression of the seat cushion which may damage the seat heater wiring.
The risk: Damage to the seat heater wiring could cause the wires to short, increasing the risk of the seat burning and causing personal injury to the occupant.
The remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will disconnect the heaters with copper strand heating elements and refund the purchase price of the seat heater accessory, free of charge. The recall is expected to began in January 2015. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-866-405-4226.
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLCView on NHTSA.gov

SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS:LEAF SPRING ASSEMBLY:LEAF

Sep 29, 2014
710,711 units potentially affected
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2005-2011 Toyota Tacoma Pre-Runner and 4x4 vehicles manufactured September 14, 2009, to October 11, 2010. In the affected vehicles, one of the leaf springs may fracture due to stress or corrosion. While being driven, the broken leaf could move out of position and contact surrounding components including the fuel tank, possibly puncturing the tank and causing a fuel leak.
The risk: If the fuel tank leaks fuel from being punctured, there is an increased risk of a fire.
The remedy: Toyota will notify owners and dealers will install new rear leaf spring assemblies. The recall began on January 29, 2016. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331.
Toyota Motor Engineering & ManufacturingView on NHTSA.gov

Safety investigations

NHTSA inquiries naming this vehicle. An investigation is not a finding of a defect.

DP08001ClosedDefect Petition

SUDDEN AND UNCONTROLLED ACCELERATION

Opened Jan 31, 2008
Closed Aug 27, 2008

THE PETITIONER OWNS A MODEL YEAR (MY) 2006 TOYOTA TACOMA EQUIPPED WITH A V6 ENGINE AND AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION.IN A PETITION SENT TO NHTSA'S OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) DATED JANUARY 10, 2008, HE ALLEGES HE EXPERIENCED TWO INCIDENTS OF UNWANTED ACCELERATION WHILE DRIVING HIS TACOMA.THE PETITIONER REPORTED THAT DURING BOTH INCIDENTS, WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKE, THE ENGINE SPEED INCREASED OF ITS OWN ACCORD (WITHOUT ACCELERATOR APPLICATION), CAUSING SUDDEN AND UNCONTROLLED ACCELERATION.THE PETITIONER REQUESTED THAT THE AGENCY COMMENCE A PROCEEDING TO DETERMINE THE EXISTENCE OF A DEFECT RELATED TO MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY INVOLVING THE ELECTRONICALLY ACTUATED THROTTLE CONTROL SYSTEM.ODI REVIEWED THE PETITION, ASSESSED VOQS, INTERVIEWED PERSONS WHO FILED VOQS, TESTED THE VEHICLE, AND REVIEWED TOYOTA'S RESPONSE TO AN AGENCY INFORMATION REQUEST.THE COMPLAINTS FELL INTO THREE GROUPS.A MAJORITY OF THE COMPLAINTS MAY HAVE INVOLVED THE TACOMA'S THROTTLE CONTROL SYSTEM.SOME COMPLAINTS DID NOT INVOLVE A FAILURE OF THE THROTTLE CONTROL SYSTEM.FOR THE REMAINING REPORTS, ALTHOUGH THERE MAY HAVE BEEN AN ISSUE WITH THE THROTTLE CONTROL SYSTEM AS ONE POSSIBLE EXPLANATION, WE HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO DETERMINE A CAUSE RELATED TO THROTTLE CONTROL OR ANY UNDERLYING CAUSE THAT GAVE RISE TO THE COMPLAINT.FOR THOSE VEHICLES WHERE THE THROTTLE CONTROL SYSTEM DID NOT PERFORM AS THE OWNER BELIEVES IT SHOULD HAVE, THE INFORMATION SUGGESTING A POSSIBLE DEFECT RELATED TO MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY IS QUITE LIMITED.ADDITIONAL INVESTIGATION IS UNLIKELY TO RESULT IN A FINDING THAT A DEFECT RELATED TO MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY EXISTS OR A NHTSA ORDER FOR THE NOTIFICATION AND REMEDY OF A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT AS REQUESTED BY THE PETITIONER.THEREFORE, IN VIEW OF THE NEED TO ALLOCATE AND PRIORITIZE NHTSA'S LIMITED RESOURCES TO BEST ACCOMPLISH THE AGENCY'S SAFETY MISSION, THE PETITION IS DENIED.PLEASE SEE THEFEDERAL REGISTER NOTICE FOR FURTHER DETAILS.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

Recent owner complaints

Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words

Body & structure
Filed Apr 22, 2026

I received a Toyota recall notification in Dec 2015 for a frame rust inspection, RO Number 307016. I have since noticed fairly major frame rust, with a long 2-inch by 7-inch opening on the inside of the frame below the driver-side seat. I took the vehicle to Toyota on 20 APR 2026 for a leaf spring recall #302870. I asked them to take a look and was told the recall 307016 had expired. The original recall inspection for rust either failed to identify it or the inspector was inadequate at identifying it.

NHTSA ID
11732953
Incident
Dec 8, 2015
Suspension
Filed Feb 22, 2026

Voss Toyota would not perform the recall of new leaf springs that has not been completed on my truck. The frame is rusty and they will not touch my truck. There should be an existing recall or customer satisfaction program on the frame of this truck that needs done as well.

NHTSA ID
11719698
Incident
Feb 20, 2026
Body & structureSuspension
Filed Nov 28, 2025

I took my 2006 Toyota Tacoma ext cab 4x4 v6 to have diagnostic run on it . "EXACT PERFORMANCE " Johnson drive . KCK The differential was shot . However , that was not the final . They did not do full diagnostic . They informed me that my frame was rotted and rusted through and would not last till spring and was a safety hazard. That was Dec. 2024 . The truck has been parked since . Ive had no transportation and can not run right out and buy another truck . I am also not willing to give up the truck either . I have put a lot of hard earned money into this truck believing it to last forever . The motor and train are sound . I do not want to junk the truck . Please , tell me what I can do . Yes . My vehicle is available for inspection upon request.

NHTSA ID
11701881
Incident
Dec 17, 2024
Body & structureSteeringSuspension
Filed May 9, 2025

The frame of my 2006 Toyota Tacoma (VIN: [XXX] ) is severely corroded and compromised. I recently acquired the vehicle and discovered that it was part of a past Toyota recall/program for frame corrosion inspection and replacement. However, it appears the previous owner did not take the vehicle in for the service. The frame now shows advanced rust and structural weakness, which puts my safety and the safety of others at risk. I am concerned that the recall program was not adequately communicated or tracked, and I am requesting that the NHTSA review this issue for potential reopening or expansion of coverage for affected vehicles like mine. The vehicle is available for inspection if needed. Thanks. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID
11660044
Incident
May 9, 2025
Body & structure
Filed Apr 11, 2025

The contact owns a 2006 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard a loud noise coming from the rear of the vehicle with no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed that the rear subframe of the vehicle was fractured. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the rear subframe of the vehicle failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 230,000.

NHTSA ID
11654146
Incident
Apr 11, 2025
Mileage
230,000 mi
Airbags
Filed Mar 20, 2025

The contact owns a 2006 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V092000 (Air Bags), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 220,000.

NHTSA ID
11649601
Incident
Mar 20, 2025
Mileage
220,000 mi
Body & structure
Filed Feb 4, 2025

The contact owns a 2006 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the vehicle failed the State Inspection because there was a hole approximately 3 inches wide on the driver's side of the vehicle near the catalytic converter. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who confirmed that the hole was caused by extensive rust and needed to be repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was a recall issued twice; however, the recall had expired. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

NHTSA ID
11640578
Incident
Jan 16, 2025
Mileage
130,000 mi
Suspension
Filed Jan 29, 2025

The truck's frame has severely rusted. The frame has deteriorated. It is unsafe to drive as the frame is breaking in half. According to Toyota, this was a huge problem with the 2006 Tacoma. They will not fix the frame or offer any solution. My son can not safely drive this vehicle.

NHTSA ID
11639471
Incident
Jan 19, 2025

Manufacturer communications

A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.

T-SB-0055-24 Rev2

Some 2005 – 2026 Toyota vehicles that have undergone water intrusion may exhibit a condition in which a musty odor is present. Follow the procedures in this bulletin to remediate the odor and address this condition. The purpose of this Service Bulletin is to provide general guidelines and procedures for odor remediation. This Service Bulletin provides a guide on how to prepare and treat the interior of the vehicle for odor remediation. Refer to the applicable model and model year Repair Manual and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) website for the most up-to-date safety and precautionary guidelines.

T-SB-0035-24 Rev2

STRUCTURE:BODY

Acid rain results from rainwater or other airborne moisture that become acidic due to industrial chemical impurities in the atmosphere. If these acidic compounds settle on an exposed vehicle, especially the horizontal areas such as the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage to the painted surfaces can occur. Acid rain damage can typically be identified on vehicles by the presence of stains on the paint surface that resemble hard water spots. Unlike water spots however, acid rain damage cannot be removed by regular washing procedures. Also, because acid rain can etch and soften the paint, normal buffing or polishing repair procedures should not be attempted. This can cause further damage and result in visible depressions in the paint surface. The following are the three major categories of acid rain damage: •Minor damage: requires only buffing to repair. •Moderate damage: usually requires neutralizing, color sanding, and buffing. •Severe damage: extending beyond 1/2 mil of clearcoat on a pearl, metallic, or solid color, requires neutralization, sanding, and repainting. In cases where acid rain damage is minor, neutralization and buffing with a liquid-type paint finessing product may provide an adequate repair. Only specially formulated products outlined in this bulletin should be used for that purpose. Unfortunately, other than minor damage, there is no simple method of determining the actual extent (depth) of acid penetration other than color sanding a representative affected area until there is no visible etching or depressions, followed by measuring the amount of paint removed with either a magnetic or digital-type film thickness gauge. The procedures in this bulletin are intended for use by qualified body/paint technicians and should not be attempted by inexperienced personnel. It is the dealer’s responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicle’s paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. Perform frequent vehicle washing, as often as daily, during high heat and humidity periods to minimize the potential for paint damage due to acid rain exposure. This is especially important in geographical areas known for high frequency and concentration of acid rain and industrial fallout.

T-SB-0039-24 Rev2

STRUCTURE:BODY

The condition known as acid rain is caused by airborne chemicals or particles in the atmosphere, which mix with rainwater, nighttime dew, or high humidity to form acidic compounds. If these contaminants settle and remain on a painted vehicle surface, especially the horizonal areas of the hood, roof, and decklid, significant damage can occur. This damage is the result of actual etching of the paint and appears as pitting or water spots. As acid rain droplets on the vehicle surface evaporate, the concentration strength of the acid increases, causing deeper and more rapid damage. This evaporation and corrosive action also occur more rapidly on dark colored cars as direct sun heat increases. It is the dealer’s responsibility to protect and maintain the quality of the vehicle’s paint finish after receipt at the dealership prior to the first sale. In areas known for high frequency and/or concentration of acid rain, frequent vehicle washing during high heat or humidity periods will minimize the potential for paint damage caused by acid rain. It is further recommended that either reverse osmosis or deionized water be used to prevent water spotting.

T-SB-0038-24 Rev2

STRUCTURE:BODY

To prevent brake rotor rust from forming during transportation and storage, wheel film will be used instead of a cardboard type of anti-rust cover. The purpose of the wheel film is to shield the disc brake rotor from weather elements and initial rust before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Consequently, the film should remain on the wheel for as long as possible.

T-SB-0061-23 Rev2

STRUCTURE:BODY

Toyota vehicles are currently protected with RapgardTM protective film designed to protect the horizontal painted surfaces. This material protects from acid rain, environmental fallout, and rail contamination. Follow the Removal Procedure in this bulletin to remove the RapgardTM protective film within 90 days from initial application.

T-SB-0062-23 Rev2

STRUCTURE:BODY

Vehicles may occasionally be subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles shed from railroad tracks, train wheels, exposure to heavy machinery facilities, grinding, welding, etc. This type of contamination can be identified by the presence of small, red or brown particles on the paint surface. These particles are often difficult to see on dark color paints but can be easily felt when brushing a hand across horizontal body surfaces such as the hood, roof, or deck lid. Follow the Repair Procedure in this bulletin to clean vehicles that may have been subjected to contamination by airborne iron particles such as rail dust during rail transportation or extended storage near industrial areas.

Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.

Compare model years

Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model

Toyota Tacoma by model year
YearComplaintsRecallsInvestigationsIssue Index
2026500
2025794060.5
20241424054.2
2023514060.7
2022573060.2
2021780049.5
2020861047.4
20192124156.4
20182023156.9
20172375160.6
20163234153.8
20151004165.0
2014934160.9
20131246164.8
20122947154.9
20111849055.9
201029113054.1
200951813054.2
200844511057.7
200754010161.5
2006Viewing78211158.7
200570710052.5
20044145052.9
20033595054.2
20023335052.6
20013966056.3
20002105057.4
19992495056.6
19983005056.2
19971314054.4
19962536156.5
19951776161.0

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.