Body Problems of Toyota Tacoma - part 1

The 3rd generation Tacomas rear cabin vents (2 vents) allow water to enter the cabin because they are not tight to the body or sealed properly. The water leaks down the back wall and forward onto the floor soaking the carpet and padding underneath. The water in the carpet/padding has yielded mildew/mold throughout (water goes all the way to the front of the truck). The water also leaks through a floor grommet into a section where the cab mount bolts are and significant rust develops. Not only is the exposure to mold a health hazard, but the corrosion/rust on the cab mount bolts is a significant structural concern. There are many online posts with this problem, and I have just recently found this on my Tacoma. My vehicle has had the 3rd brake light recall, and this issue is completely separate from that recall. Toyota has a history on these vehicles not sealing them as they should. 1. The 2 rear cabin vents fail to keep water from entering the cab. I am happy to provide the vehicle for inspection. 2. Exposure to toxic mold is a health concern. Significant structural damage to the cab mount bolts is a concern if the vehicle were to be in an accident. 3. Numerous people online have confirmed this issue, and they have indicated dealerships are well aware of the issue. I put a garden hose to the back of my truck myself and saw water entering the vehicle. 4. Vehicle has not been inspected by manufacturer, police, insurance, etc. 5. Unknown when water leak first started. In the past 2 years I have started to notice a mildew smell after a rainy day. I am happy to provide additional photos, but the internet is full of this very issue. Please see the following sites with photos/videos/descriptions of other Tacoma owners having the exact same issue. Thank you very much for your time. [xxx] [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2018 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

While driving at both high speeds (highway) and local road speed limits, Toyota Tacoma's rear passenger side frame split completely in half. While performing maneuvers such as right turns, vehicle wobbled and I, driver, lost temporary control of vehicle. Upon further inspection, rear driver side frame also contains stress fractures which are symmetric to the rear passenger side of truck. Potential for accident has increased exponentially. Pictures provided. Brought evidence of clear safety hazard to local metro detroit dealership at 773 s rochester rd unit b, rochester hills, mi 48307 on 04nov25, and called Toyota corporate on 05nov25. Toyota corporate neglected my concerns about safety hazard and potential harm to myself and family. Safety recall needs to be issued immediately. This issue stems from a well known recall from Toyota of Toyota Tacoma's, 1996-2004, which contained an oem defect of excessive corrasion to the frames, causing premature failure of the frames due to excessive rust build up which impacts frame integrity and increases probability of failures such as observed in my case.

See all problems of the 2003 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

I have a well cared for, garaged 2007 Tacoma. It had a recall for a known frame corrosion issue. I had it inspected by Toyota and they chose not to replace the frame, choosing instead to apply a crc spray in 2016. I have learned that my vehicle was sprayed by a formula that was later known to Toyota to harbor water and accelerate rusting. My vehicle has just failed state inspection and was identified to have a cracked frame in two places. Both left and right sides of the frame, behind the cab, and directly across from one another. The fact that Toyota now chooses not to honor any warranties, or provide consumer help, (I just spoke with their "brand engagement center"), when I am the recipient of 2 known and compounding failures seems a dereliction of responsibility. I have a vehicle that should have a lot of service life left but for inadequate steel being used in production, that was then given an inadequate remedy which was later discontinued by Toyota after being found to accelerate corrosion. This seems like an obvious case of manufacturer responsibility but I'm being told I'll receive no assistance from the Toyota corporation. I wonder whether the inspection done in the first place was adequately and responsibly performed.

See all problems of the 2007 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

Paint chipping where the bed meets the cab.

See all problems of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

The door handle mechanism which is made of plastic broke on the inside of the door. It was the piece the cable connects to which pulls to release the door latch for opening. Only way to get out of door is to roll window down and open from outside the vehicle. Truck has 7k miles currently and no heavy use. Under proper circumstances this could be very dangerous.

On 10/9/25 said vehicle was brought to central florida Toyota (cft) for the investigation of water intrusion into the rear passenger compartment. The cause of water intrusion was due to a defective duct (vent) assy (62930-04040. There are 2 vents located at the rear of the passenger cab. ). The cost for the repair was estimated to be $15,153. 39. This exorbitant fee includes the replacement of the entire carpeting system and the need to remove the vehicle bed to access the vents. Based on a musty smell cft assumed that the carpet had been damaged by molds. Subsequently, cft was requested to have the 2 vents replaced, only, and not the carpeting. In return, cft stipulated that I must sign a health hazard waiver due the assumed (no evidence) moldy condition. Now, not only can 2 simple mechanical vents cause such an exorbitant fee to repair it has now evolved into a potential health safety issue. Yet, Toyota has failed to provide any caution/warning to the effect of water intrusion into the rear of the passenger area. No caution/warning in owner's manual that vehicle owner must periodically inspect the rear passenger for water, no warning tags/labels inside vehicle. On the other, my Toyota oem floor mats have all sorts caution/warning plus installation instruction. It is recommended, as a minimum, Toyota must issue a recall to confirm the integrity of all vents in circulation. On my vehicle, the defective vent was due to bad seal which implies poor manufacturing. Secondly, the location of the vents is simply poor engineering. Even, if there's no damage to the carpeting the cost to replace the 2 vents would be $2,500 due to the need to vehicle bed removed.

See all problems of the 2019 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

The frame had rust a lot,had one spot was repaired,still have some need fix.

See all problems of the 2005 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

The frame on my 2010 Toyota Tacoma has developed severe perforation and rust-through. There are large holes in the frame, and the exhaust hanger has broken completely off the frame rail. The corrosion is spreading across multiple points, making the vehicle unsafe and at risk of structural failure while driving. I purchased the truck in may 2020 and brought it to a Toyota dealer for a paid multi-point inspection that included the undercarriage. At that time, Toyota’s zh6 frame corrosion program was still active. No frame concerns were reported, and the program was never disclosed to me. Toyota has since denied assistance, even though the condition now represents a clear safety hazard. This frame corrosion is not cosmetic. It is structural and has already caused parts of the vehicle to detach.

See all problems of the 2010 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

The rear cabin pressure vent leaks water into the cabin creating an unsafe vehicle to drive during rainy days. I took the vehicle to sarasota Toyota and was told that my claim to get it fixed thru the Toyota warranty was denied because it is considered trim. I contacted the warranty company and Toyota about this issue but was told the same. Not covered. I am also concerned that the water intrusion can affect the safety and health hazard of more drivers with this problem if not addressed by Toyota as soon as possible.

The frame broke.

See all problems of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

After a couple of years of owning my truck, the paint started on my hood and roof started to turn white and fade. I don’t understand why Toyota uses this type of paint that’s going to get messed up after a couple of years. Also after 4 years of owning the truck, the suspension is all messed up (never took the truck off road or driven it anywhere else but the streets and now they make noises like crazy.

Report a paint defect on my 2008 Toyota Tacoma, painted in super white (040). Over time, I have noticed significant paint peeling on multiple areas of the truck, including the roof, hood, and door frames. The paint is deteriorating down to the primer, and in some places, the metal is now exposed. I am aware of Toyota’s customer support program t-sb-0162-19, which extends warranty coverage for similar paint issues on various Toyota models using the same super white (040) and blizzard pearl (070) paints. However, I am disappointed to learn that the Tacoma—despite having identical paint and similar defects—was excluded from the original program. This paint failure is clearly not due to age or wear, but rather a manufacturing defect that has been documented by thousands of Tacoma owners nationwid.

See all problems of the 2008 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

The clear coat on the exterior paint of the truck has failed. This has left the base coat paint exposed which means the metal frame is susceptible to rusting now.

Pressure release vents mounted on rear of the cab are leaking water during rain storms causing mold build up in carpet.

See all problems of the 2020 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

I have a 2008 Tacoma with a severely rusted frame. I just bought it a few months ago but didn’t know the frame was this bad. It’s unsafe to drive in its current state. Toyota will not honor their now expired recall for their faulty frames. Their frames were not coated properly from the factory and almost all Tacomas had this issues that were in the cooler states of the us, and around the world for that matter.

My 2007 Toyota Tacoma has an open recall on the rear leaf springs due to the risk of fuel tank puncture and fire. However, Toyota and their authorized dealership are unable to perform this safety recall because the vehicle’s frame is too severely rusted. The dealership informed me that attempting the repair could further damage the vehicle, and they requested I sign a waiver releasing Toyota of liability if harm occurs during the recall process. They also informed me that replacement frames are no longer available, so the recall cannot be completed as I was interested to pay for this to get the recall safely completed this leaves me with a vehicle that presents a known, life-threatening safety hazard, which Toyota cannot resolve. The frame corrosion is due to a previously acknowledged defect for which Toyota offered limited-time frame replacements that expired before I owned the vehicle. I believe Toyota is violating its obligation to provide a remedy for this open recall. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue, as it appears Toyota is leaving customers with dangerous, unrepaired vehicles and no available remedy.

Vehicle: Toyota Tacoma (2024 model year) component: factory-installed plastic bed cap rail covers I am reporting a recurring and potentially hazardous issue with the factory-installed plastic bed cap rail covers on the 2024 Toyota Tacoma. These covers separate from the truck body, especially at the corners, during normal use. This is not caused by aftermarket accessories, but appears to result from the flawed design and attachment method. A significant number of 4th generation (2024+) Tacoma owners are experiencing similar problems with lifting and separation of these factory-installed covers. Owner forums, complaint boards, and dealer interactions reveal this is a widespread defect affecting many vehicles. Owners report frustration with the lack of a permanent solution from the manufacturer, and many have sought dealership repairs or warranty replacements, only to have the issue recur within days or weeks. The factory-installed (and warranty replacement) rail covers are attached using double-stick tape and a single row of plastic clips, which does not provide sufficient security, especially at highway speeds. The covers flex and flutter, increasing the risk of detachment while the vehicle is in motion. Detached rail covers may create a road hazard for other vehicles or pedestrians. Multiple warranty claims and dealership interactions have been pursued, but the problem persists. Replacement rail covers show the same tendency to separate within days of installation. Given the widespread nature of this defect and growing owner dissatisfaction, I respectfully request that NHTSA review and address this matter. A more robust solution is needed immediately to ensure the safety and reliability of these factory-installed components for all affected vehicles.

Toyota has had a long history of excessive frame rust. This truck has excessive frame rust. There was a recall to fix this frame rust and my truck has not been fixed. Toyota will not fix the current recall for the spring replacement because of the frame rust. My life and my children’s lives are in danger due to the possible leaf suspension failure that may puncture the gas tank.

This complaint is about the rear passenger side window on the vehicle. It is available for inspection upon request. This was a huge safety risk for me today. I had the rear passenger side door open (with the window rolled all the way up) gathering my things from the back seat. I closed the door with a normal amount of force and the window completely shattered causing me to be covered in glass shards. Luckily, no one was sitting in the back seat and at least I didn't get glass in my eyes. However, this is quite concerning. I don't believe the glass was under any stress or pressure. The temperature was 78 degrees and cloudy outside today, which doesn't seem extreme to me. The window was in perfect condition as I just bought the truck 2 months ago. After the window broke, I went directly to the dealership I bought it from, where they inspected it, and taped a trash bag over it. They told me there was a recall on windows for the new Toyota tundra models, however, not yet the Tacoma. I believe this is a potential danger to many people and it should investigated.

The underside of my 2011 Toyota Tacoma is experiencing tremendous rust. Dealer said since there was not perforation, nothing to be done. Brackets holding wiring, body panels and now gas tank have rusted and failed. The gas tank strap is a major concern. It is available for inspection. The gas tank is held up now by one unrusted strap and rubber bungee cords I applied. Dealer or independence service center has not seen it. Nearest dealer is a ferry ride away, I live on an island. No inspection by manufacturer etc. No warning lights or messages.

See all problems of the 2011 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

The frame of my 2006 Toyota Tacoma (VIN: [xxx] ) is severely corroded and compromised. I recently acquired the vehicle and discovered that it was part of a past Toyota recall/program for frame corrosion inspection and replacement. However, it appears the previous owner did not take the vehicle in for the service. The frame now shows advanced rust and structural weakness, which puts my safety and the safety of others at risk. I am concerned that the recall program was not adequately communicated or tracked, and I am requesting that the NHTSA review this issue for potential reopening or expansion of coverage for affected vehicles like mine. The vehicle is available for inspection if needed. Thanks. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2006 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

The frame was “repaired” by the spray foam, not replaced. This foam has been falling off since I purchased the vehicle and there is much rust on the frame. I have gone into Toyota for this to be inspected and they said that the foam that was applied to the frame and was sufficient enough to meet the standards. I don’t find this to be safe especially on vehicle that is 12 years old. There was rust that was clearly repainted in spots.

See all problems of the 2013 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

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.

See all problems of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

Purchased my 2 Tacoma in 11/24 second party learned of leaf spring tested and failed sent me home in rent a car demanding it back 2 min upon my arrival home due to the frame was damaged. Said they put it up on lift but didn't it was too dangerous. Had to he my vehicle out of their shop Saturday morning without the fix. Driving it off the lot from Toyota pittsfield massachusetts. Called another Toyota she sees in 16 it was inspected with recall but never fixed. I know if a pervious owner was aware who wouldn't get a fix for free? it came from an auction, a. Dealership according to history. With no reports of it ever being fixed. I believe from much research this is the second recall for leaf springs. It was never explained to be except via text that it was terrible w insulation shoved in parts. Who had done it I'm not sure. Ct. Toyota is amazed by the treatment I endured from pitts Toyota. Noone spoke to me. Of alternatives, danger, cost to fix but just let me drive away unsafe. I'm appalled that Toyota gets away with this when so many people are at risk. New tires oil change and this test noone saw?? until it was being cared for but refused. No. It should be fixed all of this issue. The truck as many is in great shape engine everything for this is why I purchased it also knowing thinking how great totota is/was would be fixed being a federal recall. There are 10s of thousands of consumers still with this issue that most were unaware of. I was never personally told except a message.

The frame has been rusting real bad and seen other Tacomas same year and style have the recall. Especially rusting where the running boards were attached too.

Hood bounces up and down while driving and gets worse at highway speeds. I am concerned that the hood will open up and block visibility which would be dangerous.

I have a 2022 white Toyota Tacoma trd4x4. The paint is chipping in the inside fender on the left side. I did some research and looks like there was a recall for this very issue and that Toyota was reimbursing for the repairs. I called Toyota today and they said that I’m VIN doesn’t fall in that recall. A vehicle that is less that 3 years old new shouldn’t have the paint chipping. I don’t drive the vehicle much and don’t use it in extreme conditions. They refused to help and stated I’m out of warranty. The recall was for the same issue I am having on all white Tacomas on the inner fender and window areas. They didn’t want to help because my white is not the same code. But thought it was funny because it’s the same issue, same color and defective in the same place. On top of that, paint shouldn’t chip in 3 years from new to now when the vehicle has been garage kept and has only 20k miles. I would really appreciate you guys opening an investigation on this please. Thank you!.

See all problems of the 2022 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

Paint starting to peel on exterior of both passenger and rear passenger side doors above window frame. Apparently Toyota is aware of the problem in models with the super white paint color and has issued a recall for their vehicles with certain VIN's. My VIN is not included in the recall although the paint peeling is identical to other vehicles that are included in the recall. Thank you.

See all problems of the 2015 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

The contact owns a 2006 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the vehicle failed the state inspection because there was a hole approximately 3-inches wide on the driver's side of the vehicle near the catalytic convertor. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who confirmed that the hole was caused by extensive rust and needed to be repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was a recall issued twice; however, the recall had expired. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

The vehicle has an open recall (NHTSA recall #12v542) for the spare tire carrier lift plate. I brought the vehicle to a Toyota dealership to have the recall addressed, but the dealership refused to perform the repair, stating that the frame is too rusted to proceed safely. They recommended a full frame replacement due to severe rust damage, which includes holes and significant structural weakening. Toyota has refused to provide a replacement frame under any existing recall or warranty program. This means the recall cannot be completed, and the vehicle remains unsafe to drive. Additionally, I cannot locate a replacement frame for this vehicle through Toyota or the aftermarket, leaving no practical solution to address the safety risks. The refusal to honor the recall and the lack of available replacement parts put me and others at significant risk. The problem has been confirmed by the Toyota dealership during inspection, and the rust damage makes the vehicle structurally unsound. The unresolved recall, combined with the excessive frame rust, has created a double safety hazard that needs urgent resolution.

Recently had routine service done on my 2010 Toyota Tacoma. Mechanic noted a lot of corrosion of the frame, including where leaf springs and axles are connected. He said that he had difficulty putting the vehicle on the lift for service due to the amount of corrosion and that he could not assure me that the vehicle is safe to drive.

The chassis/ frame work of the pickup is rusted, corroded/ rotted. This is a known issue in there was a settlement on a lawsuit related to the problem for this year model and make vehicle and Toyota was responsible to fix the problem at no cost to the customer. I called the Toyota dealership and is being told that there is no outstanding recall for this issue for this VIN#. The fact remains that the vehicle has this safety issue and I’m asking for the repairs to be done at no cost to me. Thanks for your attention to this matter.

Some of the interior door light switches don't light @ night. I can probably take the door panel off & fix it. . . (buy bulbs). . . ? door hinge on the gas cap breaks way to easily. Could fly off & hit someone\thing. . . Clunking sound coming from the rear end & I can't find where it's coming from. . . Gas cap gets loose & throws a p0333 code knock sensor bank 1 or 2 or both. Who put them under the manifold. . . ? scary to get the code. That's a hr+ job that's doing it myself. $ expensive from a shop $ nothing to serious. 2nd owner. Runs strong for the miles on it. Thank you, [xxx] , information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

I just learned from my mechanic that the frame corrosion is bad. The frame was inspected by vanderstyne (now west herr) Toyota on 06/20/2020. It passed the inspection at that time, so they did not do anything. But within 4. 5 years and only a little more than 6,000 miles driving since then - this corrosion shows up. I think the Toyota specs for the corrosion inspection were not sufficient. Toyota should be held accountable for their negligence. I only have 72,900 miles on this Tacoma. I would have liked to keep it for another 5 years or so, but now I cannot and Toyota washed their hand when I contacted them.

See all problems of the 2009 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

Two of my three 2019 Tacoma’s drivers side door hinges broke clean off the door frame.