2021 Toyota Tacoma
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 80 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 23rd highest complaint count among 26 Tacoma model years with reports.
Of the 2021 reports, 9 involved a crash. 15 people were injured and 1 person died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
No safety recalls on file.
Representative owner complaints
80 reports, newest first.
Power train, Feb 21, 2025
1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The "coolant bypass hose/joint" (Part #: 16356-31051) located at the rear of the engine, connecting the two heads, failed. This part is made of plastic and is known to be a weak point in the 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) engine. The failed component is still in the vehicle and can be inspected upon request. 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? A coolant leak from this component can lead to engine overheating, which could cause sudden engine failure while driving, increasing the risk of an accident. Since the leak is not easily visible under the hood, a driver may not notice the issue until significant overheating occurs, potentially leaving them stranded in unsafe conditions. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, the issue was confirmed by the dealership after an inspection. They identified the coolant bypass hose/joint as the source of the leak. Many users on the forum TacomaWorld have also experienced the same issue with their vehicles. 4. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? The vehicle was inspected by the dealership, but it has not been inspected by Toyota directly, the police, or an insurance representative. 5. Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? There were no warning lamps or dashboard messages indicating a problem. The only symptom was a small puddle of coolant on the ground a week after purchasing the vehicle. Upon further inspection, a trail of coolant was observed running down onto the passenger side of the transmission bell housing. Would've costed me 1,000 dollars if didn't have warranty.
Engine, Dec 3, 2024
2021 Toyota Tacoma OR coolant bypass joint leaks at only 47800 miles. The cost of repair is $1490.36
Service brakes, Oct 16, 2024
When stopping vehicle (for instance, at a stop light), vehicle would stop normally when pressing the brakes, but after a few seconds, the vehicle would start forward again. The brake pedal would give way and press down further, stopping briefly before starting forward again - so I had to use the emergency brake or else vehicle would move into oncoming traffic. I consulted a mechanic, and it was diagnosed as a bad brake master cylinder. This vehicle has only 51,000 miles on it, being a 2021 model. The brake pads themselves were checked and they are fine. I replaced the master cylinder and it fixed the issue, but I wouldn't expect this unsafe condition to already be happening to this vehicle, especially this early in life. Toyota must have defective brake master cylinders.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 30, 2024
This vehicle stalled while driving. It would totally shut off. Once at 75 mph no warning just shut off. Had a cylinder misfire according to dealership. On 2 other occasions it shut off while driving. On those occasions I was backing up out of a driveway and driving slow on a drive. So very slow speeds. On those 2 occasions it had engine stall codes according to dealership. I filed a lemon law claim and because it didn’t stall in the 58 miles the tech drove it Tamara Clear from gulf states determined there’s no evidence it stalls despite the local Toyota dealership having stall codes in their notes. Tamara clear also didn’t comply with Arkansas lemon law and respond within 40 days. She took longer because she’s overwhelmed with cases according to her. Each time the vehicle totally shut off while driving it had master warning lights, charging system lights, oil fluid temp lights, all of it. I took pics but Toyota didn’t care about that either Potentially fatal. And they expected me to drive around with a 6 year old in it
Structure, Aug 15, 2024
Toyota addressed this issue with the frame paint peeling off long ago but they have not launched a customer support program to solve the problem yet. When we reached their Brand Engagement center line (1-888-270-9371) and they do not provide a hard or estimated date to launch the repair program. The vehicle was already inspected by Round Rock Tx Toyota service (PDF page) certifying the issue is a manufacturer responsibility. Please take care of this situation promptly.
Steering, Jul 3, 2024
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The vehicle was driven to the destination. The contact checked the power steering fluid reservoir and discovered that the power steering fluid reservoir was empty. In addition, the contact became aware that the rubber boots on each side of the power steering rack were soaked with power steering fluid. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with steering rack failure. The contact was informed that the steering rack needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 47,000.
Power train, Jul 1, 2024
I was idling in line for food when I noticed my thermostat gauge going slightly higher in temp. All of a sudden I hear a loud hissing sound and smoke coming off of the engine as well as a chemical burn smell. I pulled over to the side in fear that a fire could potentially start. After some research I’ve concluded that it is the rear coolant bypass joint. It was a high stress situation where my family was in my vehicle. Please look into this!
Structure, May 24, 2024, crash
My vehicle was hit on the door frame and rear door on the driver's side by someone who ran a red light.
Electrical system, Structure, May 16, 2024
The cabin vent system appears to have a design defect, specifically the passenger-side vent located in the back of the cabin. This component is available for inspection upon request. The dealership, Santa Cruz Toyota, has declined to replace the part despite acknowledging the issue. The concern lies in the vent's design, as it allows water to enter the cabin instead of just expelling air. The water intrusion caused by this malfunction poses a safety risk in two ways. First, the presence of water on the floor increases the chance of an electrical fire due to the numerous electrical wires running underneath. Second, mildew spores can grow on the wet undercarpet padding, creating a health hazard. This problem has been confirmed by Santa Cruz Toyota, and we have video evidence to support the claim. While Santa Cruz Toyota has inspected the vehicle, our request for a direct inspection from the manufacturer, Toyota, has not been successful. There weren't any warning lights or messages prior to the failure. However, the issue became apparent after the heavy rains of 2023 in California, when we discovered water accumulated under the passenger-side carpet padding.
Suspension, Mar 25, 2024
Rear spring excessive wear at 66,000 miles and needed to be replaced. Both sides worn but left more than the right
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Feb 28, 2024
Driving at approximately 55 mph and dash lights started flickering, radio went off, reset to 530 (am radio). Vehicle started sputtering and slowing down in traffic and completely shut down. Lost all power and coasted to side of road. I had no or little control of vehicle. I have "connected services" that was to warn me about mechanical and electrical failures and no warning of this happening. This enrollment was to give me "services designed to help keep you safe, secure and in control of your Tacoma from almost anywhere". "brand engagement center" not concerned of the incident. Apparently two and half year old battery failed. Replaced by myself.
Tires, Jan 27, 2024
Firestone Destination Le2 P245/75R16 On February 20, 2021 just 15 days after I purchased my brand new truck the rear passenger side tire dramatically exploded while I was driving in to my neighborhood. I was traveling at approximately 35 mph when out of nowhere a sound similar to a shotgun interrupted my driving and immediately forced me off the road in between two trees. I was narrowly missed by oncoming traffic and scared for my life. My side step of my brand new car was damaged as well as the rim and driver side wheel well where my car brushed the tree. I called Toyota and they said I didn't have tire coverage so I called my insurance company next. USAA sent a tow truck to pick up the vehicle and they brought it to Tire Choice. The associate said the tires were known for exploding and indicated that I needed to at least replace the damaged one and the driver side front for my own safety. The associate also said he didn't think these specific tires were even in circulation anymore. I went to Toyota and they said this was a manufacturers issue. No one was able to help me and I was forced to replace two brand new tires out of pocket. I was lucky I was in the neighborhood and not the interstate. There was absolutely no sign this was going to happen nor did I hit anything in the short time I had the car before the accident.
Other or unspecified, Jan 19, 2024
The paint is starting to peel on the passenger fender. It is on the inside of where the hood gap is in a area that is not exposed to rock chips or would be susceptible to external damage. It is also located right next to where the rubber bump stop is to prevent the hood from contacting the fender so it would be impossible for the hood to cause the issue and since the hood has no signs of chipping or rubbing in that area.
Service brakes, Dec 25, 2023
While driving on a freeway I step down on the as needed I got a message on my dash board that my braking power is low Stop in a safe place and see Owen's manual, A few seconds later I lost my brakes I have to use my hand brak to stop, came to a complete stop and called a tow truck, upon arrival the tow truck driver inspected my truck and realized there were brake fluid leaking out of my back drum, I took it in for a check up and I was told that my brake fluid is coming out of my braking cylinder, I checked for a recall I don't see it for my truck year but see it a the truck that's a few year older.
Fuel/propulsion system, Dec 17, 2023
High-pressure and low pressure fuel pumps. Yes it is available for inspection. The truck cannot maintain posted, speed limit, causing a potential rear end collision. I reported the problem they replaced the high-pressure fuel pump for free and then said the low pressure fuel pump needs replaced the truck only has 40,000 miles. I think there’s a defect in this part that could cause lots of accidents. Check engine light is flashing and the ATC light comes on, the engine starts to sputter and cannot maintain speed.
Service brakes, Dec 4, 2023, crash
I was about to park. press the break pedal in order to move gear to Parking. However, My Tacoma accelerated and I was unable to control it. Finally, it stop after hitting a tree.
Air bags, Seat belts, Seats, Nov 18, 2023
Could feel and hear the front passenger seat (including the supplemental restraint system airbag) and seat belt move side to side and making a noise. I took the vehicle to Toyota of Denton, in Denton Texas for evaluation. Here is what they found from the service manager's email "Yours will need the seat frame replaced. The seat was removed, we found the seat track has play in it and is non serviceable meaning it comes as an assembly and you can not get individual parts for it. The estimate is $2234.28 and the part would take 3-4 weeks to come in as it is on back order. Keep in mind, that time can change along the way, but that is the current ETA. If you want to proceed with the repair, you would need to pre pay for the part and the diagnostic. The total repair would be reduced by the amount prepaid. I did reach out to Toyota and there would be no goodwill offered for this repair. It was just purchased and the selling dealer is who I would recommend you ask them for assistance. Please let me know how you would like to proceed." This same type of issue is found on from multiple owners. How many passenger seat frames have been replaced on 2019-2023 Tacomas, thousands? This is a huge safety issue effecting the safety of the seatbelt and airbag of the front passenger occupant. What is worse TOYOTA Motor Corp. refuses to honor their own SRS fully transferable 5 year - 60,000 mile warranties. leaving owners of these vehicles to pay for the cost on their own or worse driving a vehicle with loose seats, airbags, airbag sensors, and front passenger seat belts. The NHTSA needs to conduct an immediate full safety recall of all 2019-2023 Toyota Tacoma loose passenger seats due to factory defect faulty seat frames, which directly bolt the front passenger seat belt, airbag, and safety sensors to the vehicle. The NHTSA additionally needs to investigate SRS warranty fraud conducted by Toyota Motor Corp, for failing to uphold their own published SRS warranties
Service brakes, Lane departure, Aug 2, 2023
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving at unknown speeds, the brake message and alarm were displayed on the infotainment screen. While driving, the blind spot warning light illuminated, and the brake seized. The contact stated that the vehicle was pulling to the left. While driving and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle was slow to respond. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure, but the contact was informed there was a code for a caliper malfunction. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was started; however, no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 1,200.
Forward collision avoidance, Apr 10, 2023
Auto Emergency Braking has gotten extremely dangerous and locking breaks when nothing is in front of me. Always while in cruise control mode. On long extended highways, the truck will randomly slam on the brakes and skid the back tires. It has happened 6 times now. This most recent one made us slide into the next lane and I had to turn the truck into a field (~20mph) after the truck brakes went off. To avoid on coming traffic. There was a car turning around half a mile ahead and was nowhere close. Additionally, a severe issue of premature rust and degradation is occurring on the truck. 13,000 miles and the bottom looks like it's been on the road for several years.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Forward collision avoidance, Mar 23, 2023
My vehicle stalls (won't accelerate and rough idle) forcing you to roll off the highway without warning. This has happened multiple times while in cruise control going up steep hills. It shows engine misfire and check engine. I took it to the dealer multiple times and it was determined to be bad gas. I and my insurance company paid for this dealer (Hatch Toyota Show Low AZ) for complete clean and replacement of the entire fuel system. Now 5 months later it is doing it again. The safety issue is the stalling in the middle of the highway where there is no way to get out of the way of traffic. I made sure I bought good gas by paying extra money at a new Chevron gas station with new in ground tanks. But dealer claims bad gas again. That is a separate issue.
Other or unspecified, Mar 22, 2023
I went to my regular Maintenace appt at my local Toyota dealer Newton, NJ on 3/10/2023. They told me that it would be about $700 or more for my 2021 Toyota Tacoma boot leak and an alignment. I was told that it was due me hitting potholes. I did not agree with their opinion, and i was annoyed. They acted weird as well. But i told them to fix it anyway. So they ordered the parts. Much later they said boot leak was under warranty, but just to pay for alignment. I was not happy with the pothole accusation. Thank God the boot leak was covered! I have been taking in my Toyota Tacoma in every 5,000-6,500 miles as suggested. Please keep me informed of any recalls. They fixed boot and alignment on March 15 2023.
Visibility/wiper, Feb 8, 2023
Defect in windshield consisting of thousands of tiny bubbles in the laminate which cause the windshield to become slightly opaque in direct sunlight or bright oncoming headlights. Dealer insists this is rock strikes. Toyota says the windshield is out of warranty. This defect began to appear at about 40,000 miles and is getting worse. (Vehicle is now at 54,000 mi.) I have seen other Toyotas (a RAV4 for one) with this defect. A definite safety issue, especially in bright sunlight.
Air bags, Seats, Jan 11, 2023, crash
The subject vehicle left roadway and impacted a tree in a pure frontal impact. The front seat passenger airbag failed to deploy. An 11 year old child was seated and properly belted in the front passenger seat. The child was killed as a result of blunt force trauma to his head when his head struck the front dash structure. In addition, the belted occupant seated behind the front passenger seat, while properly belted, impacted the rear of the front passenger seat and the seat deformed forward, limiting the ride down space for the front passenger seat occupant. The other three occupants in the subject Toyota Tacoma suffered non-life threatening injuries.
Vehicle speed control, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jan 9, 2023
- Engine throttle went into wide open throttle causing the Unintended acceleration in traffic - The truck was doing about 45mph the passing gear came on and a second I was doing 60mph I quickly applied full pressure on the brakes and the car did not slow down at all, the truck failed to STOP or slow down and was getting closer to the vehicle in front, it was in the Expressway. My only thought was too press the ON OFF button and instantly shut down the passing gear and slowed down. _ The vehicle was dropped of at the dealer for 2-weeks and was inspected no problem found. - There were no warning lamps messages on the screen or voice message at all. I am afraid to drive this vehicle it became a runaway wild horse. If I didn`t react in milliseconds i would of hit the car in front at a high rate of speed causing damage to everyone. I took pictures after right after having full control of the truck. All the record of my complaints of the Tacomas drive train started more than 1 1/2 years ago the records are the facts of Toyotas negligence. I have total fear and don`t trust this truck with my life. Please check the recorded dealer is Doral Toyota and you can speak with the Service manager [XXX]. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Vehicle speed control, Dec 28, 2022
I have experienced short periods with my Tacoma accelerating when my foot wasn't on the gas pedal. The floor mat was pinned down correctly and not in the way. I was turning left and my truck started to speed up like the gas was being pressed. I had to hit the brakes as a red light was coming and vehicles were stopped at the Red light. I have also had another issue with the truck not responding when the pedal was pressed all the way down and the truck wouldn't speed up at all for a few seconds.