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2023 Toyota Tacoma Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

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.
51
Latest Aug 10, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
12
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.
6

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2023 Toyota Tacoma, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

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

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

  • Electrical1117.5%
  • Steering914.3%
  • Engine914.3%
  • Airbags812.7%
  • Powertrain (other)711.1%
  • Brakes69.5%
  • Visibility34.8%
  • Driver assistance34.8%
  • Exterior lighting23.2%
  • Interior & seats23.2%
  • Suspension23.2%
  • Fuel system11.6%

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

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

11
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V152000 (POWER TRAIN). The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the steering wheel was firm, the brake pedal was firm, and the vehicle was violently vibrating. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The message “Pull Over – Do Not Drive” was displayed before the vehicle lost automotive power. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and was towed back to the dealer. The vehicle was inspected; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the battery and alternator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 43,000.

NHTSA ID 11754727 · filed Aug 4, 2026

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 ID 11722923 · filed Mar 9, 2026
All 11 reports naming electrical

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

9
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V152000 (POWER TRAIN). The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the steering wheel was firm, the brake pedal was firm, and the vehicle was violently vibrating. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The message “Pull Over – Do Not Drive” was displayed before the vehicle lost automotive power. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and was towed back to the dealer. The vehicle was inspected; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the battery and alternator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 43,000.

NHTSA ID 11754727 · filed Aug 4, 2026

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 the steering rack seals failed and power steering fluid was dripping into the tie rod boots. Vehicle was out of the 3 year / 36,000 mile warranty and this known issue is not covered by the power train warranty, so 100% of the cost to repair falls upon the owner. Dealer stated that this is a known issue but could not state why a recall was never initiated to alleviate the issue and prevent this costly repair from falling upon the vehicle owners. If not repaired the issue could cause sudden, dramatic increases in steering effort and total loss of vehicle control. Low fluid can also damage internal pump components if not caught early enough.

NHTSA ID 11744147 · filed Jun 15, 2026
All 9 reports naming steering

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

9
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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 ID 11721783 · filed Mar 3, 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 ID 11710839 · filed Jan 14, 2026
All 9 reports naming engine

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

8
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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 few feet. Only the airbags on the doors/windows deployed. There was very little reaction time to apply the brakes due to the speed and closeness of the Honda coming into our lane. The airbags in the front console would have protected us from the whiplash we received.

NHTSA ID 11747822 · filed Jul 1, 2026

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 ended in a ditch after going over a T-Intersection. Air bags went off and vehicle was drivable after. Submitted a claim to insurance and here we are.

NHTSA ID 11732718 · filed Apr 21, 2026
All 8 reports naming airbags

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

7
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the transmission failed to operate properly while driving 35 MPH and attempting to accelerate. While driving uphill or downhill, the transmission was slow to shift into the intended gear, and the vehicle was slow to accelerate. Additionally, there was an abnormal sound while turning the steering wheel. While driving in the left lane with another vehicle in the right lane, the vehicle stopped suddenly. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, and the failure was associated with the gear shaft. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.

NHTSA ID 11755950 · filed Aug 10, 2026

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 nuts. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 21,303.

NHTSA ID 11703876 · filed Dec 9, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

6
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V152000 (POWER TRAIN). The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the steering wheel was firm, the brake pedal was firm, and the vehicle was violently vibrating. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The message “Pull Over – Do Not Drive” was displayed before the vehicle lost automotive power. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and was towed back to the dealer. The vehicle was inspected; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the battery and alternator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 43,000.

NHTSA ID 11754727 · filed Aug 4, 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 order to avoid entering a busy roadway without adequate braking capability, the driver applied maximum steering input, fully loading the left side of the steering wheel with as much force as possible in an attempt to redirect the vehicle. Any reduction in speed occurred primarily due to the change in direction and tire to road friction, not effective braking. The vehicle was towed to a Toyota dealership. Dealer intake records document a PCS warning and no brakes upon arrival. Event Data Recorder (EDR/CDR) data shows continuous brake pedal application for approximately 5 seconds prior to the event, accelerator at 0%, and brake system hydraulic pressure reaching approximately 12.14 MPa (maximum recorded). Despite this, the vehicle did not stop as expected. No frontal crash pulse recorded. Toyota Motor North America later denied responsibility, asserting incorrect vehicle speed and stating that a CARFAX report indicated prior front-end damage. The CARFAX vehicle history report, dealer purchase disclosures, and service records show no reported accidents or damage. Toyota declined to provide brake system ECU logs (ABS/VSC/brake control modules). This incident raises concerns regarding a potential safety defect involving electronically controlled braking and its interaction with PCS stability control systems. Supporting documentation available. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5

NHTSA ID 11705080 · filed Dec 15, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Visibility

Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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. Nozzle part is difficult for car owner to remove and replace.

NHTSA ID 11675828 · filed Jul 24, 2025

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 ID 11551985 · filed Oct 26, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the transmission failed to operate properly while driving 35 MPH and attempting to accelerate. While driving uphill or downhill, the transmission was slow to shift into the intended gear, and the vehicle was slow to accelerate. Additionally, there was an abnormal sound while turning the steering wheel. While driving in the left lane with another vehicle in the right lane, the vehicle stopped suddenly. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, and the failure was associated with the gear shaft. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.

NHTSA ID 11755950 · filed Aug 10, 2026

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 up on the dash. The manufacture has not inspected the vehicle. In fact, when I reported it to them, and sent pictures of the warning messages, they insinuated that the pictures were not from my vehicle. The manufacture stated that they do not consider this a safety issue. I do not feel safe driving this vehicle. If the brakes lock while out on the hi-way it could cause an accident.

NHTSA ID 11614713 · filed Sep 15, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Exterior lighting

Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Headlight tabs break causing housing to rub against body and crack. Additionally it makes headlights move which necessitates constant readjustment.

NHTSA ID 11750712 · filed Jul 15, 2026

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 ID 11572480 · filed Feb 17, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Interior & seats

Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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 safety risk to the driver and others.

NHTSA ID 11655670 · filed Apr 20, 2025

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 as instructed by the service advisor. Ticket was recorded as case [XXX] and was closed without solving the issue. I was advised by the Toyota case in that case [XXX], where the agent recommended I speak with another dealer (Livermore Toyota) to get a second opinion before the case could get escalated. The vehicle was not repaired and I was sent home with the loose seat. Per the description from Repair Order [XXX], on [XXX]: "Cause: DRIVER'S SEAT SEEMS LOOSE AND WOBBLES.REMOVE SEAT ASSEMBLY AND CHECK ALL HARDWARE.EVERYTHING CHECKED OK.REINSTALL SEAT AND TIGHTEN MOUNTING BOLTS.CHECK WITH ANOTHER 2023 TACOMA VIN [XXX] . DRIVER'S SEAT OPERATION IS THE SAME. THANK YOU 2426" I strongly believe that a loose driver's seat that exhibits 'wobble' is unsafe and also causes discomfort / lack of confidence for the driver. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11579543 · filed Mar 26, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Suspension

Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

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 retighten the bolts now, and they don’t have an answer. They said I would receive a call back so I waited from last week 2/27 and did not hear anything back. After calling again today I was told there is nothing they can do because they don’t have parts. However the recall clearly states that the truck needs to be inspected and the bolts need to be tightened. There are no additional parts necessary unless components have become damaged. Servco has shown Hawaii customers countless times that they truly do not care about their customers as this is the only dealership on island and people do not have any other choice but to return for terrible service. This recall is a safety issue and I do not feel “wait till April” is an acceptable solution to this problem as my truck is driven daily

NHTSA ID 11575419 · filed Mar 4, 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 rides better but steering wheel vibration still happens unannounced at speeds between 60 mph & 80 mph.

NHTSA ID 11536202 · filed Aug 3, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

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 ID 11722923 · filed Mar 9, 2026

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

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.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .