RoadVitals

2011 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.
184
+1 complaint in 30 days
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.
9
Latest Jul 3, 2017
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.
0
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.
14
7 injuries, 2 deaths reported

Overview

Our database contains 184 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2011 Toyota Tacoma, most frequently naming the suspension, exterior lighting and electrical categories. 9 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; and 375 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

9 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

EQUIPMENT; STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS

Jul 3, 2017
3,547 units potentially affected
The defect: Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (SET) is recalling certain 2011-2016 Toyota Tacoma and 4Runner vehicles equipped with accessory hood scoops installed by SET or SET dealers. The adhesive attaching the hood scoop may weaken, allowing the hood scoop to detach from the vehicle.
The risk: If the hood scoop detaches, it may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
The remedy: SET will notify owners, and dealers will mechanically fasten the scoop to the hood, free of charge. The recall began on September 1, 2017. Owners may contact SET customer service at 1-954-429-2000. SET's number for this recall is SET17B.
Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLCManufacturer number SET17BView 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

Recent owner complaints

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

Airbags
Filed Jul 21, 2026

The contact owns a 2011 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that over time the horn intermittently became inoperable; however, the horn operated while in the middle of making a turn. The contact was concerned about the failure because the horn and the air bag in the steering wheel were connected by the clockspring. No warning lights were illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired because the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The local dealer confirmed that the VIN was not included in a recall related to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 88,000.

NHTSA ID
11751917
Incident
Oct 1, 2025
Mileage
88,000 mi
Body & structureSuspension
Filed Jul 6, 2026

The contact owns a 2011 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while performing a routine engine oil change, extensive corrosion was observed across the entire undercarriage. The severe rust damage fully compromised the vehicle's structural frame, control arms, and several underbody components. The dealer was not notified of the failure, but the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 200,000.

NHTSA ID
11748620
Incident
Jul 6, 2026
Mileage
200,000 mi
Filed Jun 9, 2026

Chassis recall under Toyota Recall Program ZKA/LSC K0D. While the window of this recall closed in 2017, my vehicle was sold to me several years after 2017. The vehicle chassis is in a critical state and is likely to snap in half. I have sent a letter and photos to: Toyota Motor Corp., Federal Highway Admin, Toyota Clearwater, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, FL House of Rep and BBB Natl Programs. All of the above were sent via trackable and signature required USPS. The vehicle should have been prohibited from any resale if the recall can be closed. As i understand it, technically there should be no expiration date on a significant failure. I do not have $13,000 to get a new vehicle and I do not want to resell to shift the risk to someone else. At minimum Toyota should be forced to buy back the vehicle , replace the chassis or offer a safe used replacement option. Please help me understand where I go from here. Looking for your support and resolution.

NHTSA ID
11742973
Incident
Apr 29, 2026
Suspension
Filed Jun 3, 2026

2011 Tacoma, 4x4. Leaf spring is broken on the passenger side. 130,000 miles. According to Toyota my vin is not included under recall 14V-604. I do believe this is either an error or deliberate oversight to avoid responsibility. Manufacturer date 05/11 so according to the recall notice it falls within the date range but not the effected Vins.

NHTSA ID
11741784
Incident
Jun 1, 2026
BrakesSuspension
Filed Jan 24, 2026

I purchased the truck December 6th 2025 within a thousand Miles within the end of the year I experienced brake failure on the highway I laid under the truck to patch the brake failure and found a cracked leaf spring suspension component which there's already a recall for that exact make and model just not my VIN number for that cracked leaf spring there was a recall for frame rust and just rust in general and my brake lines rusted out but a certified technician from the used car dealership said it was safe and road Worthy I experienced a brake fire on the front calipers shortly after this brake failure the fire caused 7800 worth of damage I got quoted from Toyota to fix it and that doesn't cover the $2,000 worth of leaf springs which there was already an exact recall for this exact model of truck for the exact damage depicted but somehow my VIN is not applicable for this repair.

NHTSA ID
11713113
Incident
Dec 29, 2025
Body & structure
Filed Oct 29, 2025

The contact owns a 2011 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while attempting to have an inspection completed on the vehicle, the contact was informed by the mechanic that the inspection could not be completed due to several holes in the underbody frame of the vehicle. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 168,000.

NHTSA ID
11696284
Incident
Oct 22, 2025
Mileage
168,000 mi
Electrical
Filed Aug 26, 2025

Blower Fan had been cutting off. Only running intermittent on High. Took to Toyota dealer June 2025. Was told it was a Cabin Air Filter Clogged. Paid for replacement and clean out of system. Continued to not work. Called a mechanic and asked for a diagnostic. Was told it was a “known issue” with Toyota Tacomas. Had been a recall in later years. I ordered the blower motor resistor and wiring harness from Toyota parts department. It was on back order due to the issue being widespread. July 2025 parts came in. Returned truck to the shop. The techichian replaced the motor blower resistor and the new wiring harness. However, he cut the burnt wires off and spliced the new wires into old wires back to the motor. Aug 2025 motor has stopped working again. Back to the Toyota shop. The truck needs a new blower motor. The labor will be 1200. Plus the labor I’ve already paid for three other shop visits plus parts. The motor blower is on back order till mid September. The motor has been let unplugged due to “risk of fire”. But I’ve been given the vehicle again to drive. It has had a risk of fire since June. The wires have been overheating and smelling. This should have been a recall in 2011. Just as it was in the later Toyota Tacoma. Pleas investigate

NHTSA ID
11683275
Incident
Jun 12, 2025
Body & structureFuel system
Filed Jun 11, 2025

The underside of my 2011 Toyota Tacoma is experiencing tremendous rust. Dealer said since there was not perforation, nothing to be done. Brackets holding wiring, body panels and now gas tank have rusted and failed. The gas tank strap is a major concern. It is available for inspection. The gas tank is held up now by one unrusted strap and rubber bungee cords I applied. Dealer or independence service center has not seen it. Nearest dealer is a ferry ride away, I live on an island. No inspection by manufacturer etc. No warning lights or messages.

NHTSA ID
11666324
Incident
Jun 11, 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
2011Viewing1849055.9
201029113054.1
200951813054.2
200844511057.7
200754010161.5
200678211158.7
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.