Wheel Related Problems of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma

Wheel problem

The rear leaf spring broke on my 2024 Toyota Tacoma at approximately 16,000 miles during normal highway driving. The vehicle drove without issue on the way to my destination. On the return trip, I noticed a creaking sound, loud clunks, particularly when going over bumps or turning, and also increased sway. Given how new the vehicle is, a catastrophic suspension failure was not something I anticipated. The failure was confirmed on February 12th by my authorized Toyota dealer, Toyota of muskegon in muskegon, mi as a manufacturer defect. The vehicle is currently at the dealership awaiting a replacement part and is available for inspection upon request. A broken leaf spring compromises the structural integrity of the rear suspension, affecting vehicle stability, handling, and control - particularly at highway speeds or during braking. A failed leaf spring can also contact the fuel tank, creating a potential fire hazard. This is a documented risk, as Toyota issued a recall on 790,000 Tacomas from model years 2005–2011 for this same failure. When I called my authorized dealership, the service manager told me to get the truck off the road immediately. Based on my description, he identified it as a likely broken leaf spring and that it was an extremely dangerous situation. He even suggested that I get the truck towed into the dealership. The dealer has documented it as a manufacturer defect and submitted a warranty claim. A replacement part has been ordered but is currently on an extended backorder with no confirmed availability date. The vehicle was inspected by an authorized Toyota dealer, who confirmed the leaf spring failure as a manufacturer defect. Toyota corporate has been notified and a case has been opened (case #: 260303000171) there were no warning lamps or messages prior to the failure. The leaf spring failed without any prior symptoms or indication of a problem.