The Best (and Worst) Toyota Tacoma Years

Let’s start with the bad news. Here are the worst years for the Toyota Tacoma:

• 2001 - 2003

• 2005 - 2009

• 2012

• 2014 - 2017

Here are the Toyota Tacoma model years you should avoid, ranked worst to not-as-bad:

• 2006

• 2007

• 2009

• 2012

• 2016

• 2017 

These model years are on this list because of widespread issues that affected many vehicles. 

Here are the Toyota Tacoma generations and what they’re most known for:

• Generation One (1995-2004): A basic, sturdy, small pickup truck.

• Generation Two (2005-2015): A touch larger with more features.

• Generation Three (2016-2023): More emphasis on comfort and in-cabin technology.

• Generation Four (2024 – Present): A plusher ride and more tech.

The Best Years for Toyota Tacoma

Many consider the 2011, 2014, and 2015 Toyota Tacoma the best model years to buy used. Here are some other great years for the Toyota Tacoma:

• 1995 - 2000

• 2004

• 2008

• 2010 - 2011

• 2013 - 2015

• 2018 - 2022

The first-generation Toyota Tacoma is an excellent bet if you want a rock-solid pickup truck and aren’t concerned with frills. We like it for its reliability and simplicity. That said, the 2002 and 2003 model years had automatic transmission complaints, so do your due diligence if one of those years catches your eye.

Toyota Tacoma Problems by Model Year

Every model year has its issues. Those problems may not affect every vehicle, but widespread issues tend to be known. You should also be aware that any Tacoma manufactured from 2012 onward may have soy-based wiring sheaths that attract rats, mice, and other rodents. This known issue has wreaked havoc and rendered many vehicles useless due to rodents chewing through wiring. Buyer beware.

Here is a list of other significant issues the Toyota Tacoma has by model year:

• 2005: Rusting of frame, paint flaking and chipping.

• 2006: There was severe frame and suspension rust with many reports of the frame breaking around the motor mount. Random acceleration and paint flaking were also reported.

• 2007: The accelerator was reported to be sticky, and random acceleration without driver engagement, rusting, and evident coat cracking were also reported.

• 2008: Premature rusting, flaking paint and clear coat, engine not starting, and sudden unexpected acceleration were all noted.

• 2009: Premature rusting and corrosion were reported, primarily in the frame and suspension. The radio came on randomly, clutches slipped, paint flaked, and loss of power from a leaking fuel pulsation dampener.

• 2011: A/C issues and some interior accessories are faulty.

• 2012: It won’t accelerate past a certain speed, there is a sudden loss of power, and the check engine light comes on randomly for no apparent reason.

• 2016: Transmission issues, including often delayed engagement in cold weather, engine noise, and excessive vibration were also reported.

The 2008 and 2011 model years didn’t have widespread issues, so they were found on the “best model years” list. We’ve included them here so you know what to look for if you’re interested in purchasing either model year.

The Highest Rated Toyota Tacoma Model Years

Even the worst model years for the Tacoma have some gems, but here are the model years that are most likely to give you the best ownership experience:

• 1997

• 2000

• 2011

• 2013 - 2015

• 2017

• 2019

• 2020 - 2023

These model years are not without their issues - no model year is perfect - but they have fewer complaints and fewer major issues than other model years. 

If there’s one key takeaway, it is that Toyota has come into its own in later model years. The newer you buy, the better your chances of having an excellent Tacoma.

The Most Common Toyota Tacoma Issues

Here are the most common issues with Toyota Tacoma. We suggest you look for these issues no matter which model year you plan to buy, but be especially mindful of issues with earlier model years.

Engine Stalling and Sputtering

Several reports have been made over the years that the Tacoma is not as powerful as it should be. Even at higher speeds, some report engine sputtering and rough vibrations.

Random, Unexpected Acceleration

Along with the aforementioned engine troubles, some Tacomas would randomly accelerate for no reason. This is the last thing you want to have happen in any scenario.

Paint/Finish Flaking and Fading

You want a great looking truck, and the Tacoma usually is - but some model years have poor paint and clear coats that flake prematurely.

Rust and Corrosion

If a Tacoma has frame rust, run away. Body rust isn’t wonderful, but any rust or corrosion affecting the structural integrity of your truck is problematic.

FAQs

Here are some common questions Tacoma buyers have:

Is the Tacoma a Reliable Truck?

Absolutely. Before buying, you should always have a vehicle inspected by a third party, like your mechanic, and alert them to issues you know are common on Tacomas. Overall, though, the Tacoma is an incredibly reliable vehicle.

Are Issues Easy to Fix on a Tacoma?

Many of the Tacoma’s reported issues are minor and may not “need” a fix. However, significant issues like frame rust and engine issues are challenging to fix.

What Should I do Before Buying a Tacoma?

Whenever you purchase a used vehicle, we advise having it inspected by an independent third party. If you’re buying from a dealership, understand their warranty period and your window for returning the vehicle. Some dealerships won’t let you take a vehicle to a mechanic for inspection and may require you to purchase it first. If your mechanic finds major problems, returning the vehicle may be your best option.

If you’re buying from an independent seller, you should not have any issues with having a mechanic inspect the car before completing the sale.