Four problems related to steering failed have been reported for the 2005 Toyota Tacoma. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2005 Toyota Tacoma based on all problems reported for the 2005 Tacoma.
Intermediate steering shaft failure. Caused stiff steering.
Intermediate steering shaft rusted and binding my steering was becoming tough to steer and then it would be fine. It felt like the power assist was stopping assisting then it would behave normally during a turn. This caused loss of proper steering during turning are any speed. Sometimes it would be tough to steer, (as if you had manual steering) and halfway through the turn, the steering feel would go back to normal (power assist working) which caused back and forth motions to keep the vehicle in the proper lane. The dealer inspected the truck and " found steering intermediate shaft rusted and binding". I had to replace the intermediate shaft, have a four wheel alignment and have the power steering fluid flushed. Total bill was $796. 89 this also seems to be related to inadequate rust preventative measures, possibly similar to the rusting frame issues. I believe Toyota should recall these vehicles due to safety concerns and reimburse anyone who has already had this repaired at the dealer. This should be recalled before serious accidents or death due to steering failure at high or slow speeds.
2005 Tacoma pickups and others are included in a pending settlement regarding excessive rusting. Now my steering is freezing up which I find is a well documented complaint on the internet. The reason seems to also be related to a failure to adequately protect against rusting. Sudden steering failure has been reported. I cannot safely drive my vehicle due to this fault. Toyota should immediately be forced to recall all these dangerous vehicles before there are serious accidents and deaths.
Purchased new 2005 Toyota Tacoma pickup, 4 cylinder, automatic, 4x2. On first drive of new truck a shake or shimmy was noticed at any speed above 20 mph, but most notable in the 45 to 70 mph range. Returned truck to dealer. Was told that this is a defect known to Toyota, but that Toyota has been unable to determine the cause or provide a fix. Bobby rahal Toyota in mechanicsburg refuses to refund money, cannot fix the problem and refuses to work on this defect citing no cure. Concern is that a constant front end vibration of this sort will lead to suspension and / or steering failure resulting is a crash.