Suspension Problems of Toyota Tacoma - part 1

I purchased the truck December 6th 2025 within a thousand miles within the end of the year I experienced brake failure on the highway I laid under the truck to patch the brake failure and found a cracked leaf spring suspension component which there's already a recall for that exact make and model just not my VIN number for that cracked leaf spring there was a recall for frame rust and just rust in general and my brake lines rusted out but a certified technician from the used car dealership said it was safe and road worthy I experienced a brake fire on the front calipers shortly after this brake failure the fire caused 7800 worth of damage I got quoted from Toyota to fix it and that doesn't cover the $2,000 worth of leaf springs which there was already an exact recall for this exact model of truck for the exact damage depicted but somehow my VIN is not applicable for this repair.

See all problems of the 2011 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

The brakes on my 2008 Toyota Tacoma were failing so I took it to a mechanic, who said that the brake lines had failed and needed to be replaced. However, he said that it wasn't worth putting any money into the truck, as the leaf springs were corroded along with the frame, which could crack apart at any time. As we only purchased the truck one year ago, he advised us to take it to the dealership where we purchased it, and informed us of the recalls on both of these issues. I spoke with the mechanic at the dealership because when we purchased the vehicle, they did the inspection and said that everything was fine. When I asked the mechanic about this, he said that he didn't have anything to do with sales and we needed to speak to the owner (who is out on medical leave). The mechanic said that when the dealership purchased the vehicle at auction, the frame must have been undercoated and so they missed it. When I mentioned the recall, he told me to call Toyota. I have checked the VIN and it is not showing an open recall for this vehicle. However, it is experiencing the exact same safety issues as the recalls for leaf spring corrosion and frame rust and cracking. I have only had this truck for a little over one year and do not know what to do. It is too dangerous to drive as it could cause a serious accident. Neither the dealership nor Toyota want to take responsibility and offer a solution.

See all problems of the 2008 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

I was driving to work when after running across a minor pothole I heard a clunking sound. It turns out it's the top cap for the front coil-over bilstein shocks had broken allowing the shaft and the bump stop to protrude through the upper mounting plate. The coil did its job of keeping the vehicle suspended, but the shock piston has no ability to alleviate any stresses put upon the coil. Dealer states that because there was an outside contribution, I. E. A pothole, which had been driven around and over many times before, wasn't warrantable. There was no more than standard bump and sway than when driving around as usual. There was no shudder as though I was going too fast for the defect in the road. I dont know if there was pre existing stress damage from a recent collision(opposite corner of truck) or if the was a defect with the part. The top cap is made out of aluminum rather than steel, which I find disturbing after learning this is not the first to have broken. This vehicle has only been off pavement in gravel driveways and parking lots. I hope you can investigate this thoroughly.

See all problems of the 2025 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

Vehicle cannot be safely driven – structural / suspension defect suspected – dealer claims “repair completed” despite unequal wheelbase my vehicle is currently unsafe to operate, due to the following critical issues: ? 1. Left–right wheelbase inconsistency the front and rear wheelbase measurements are not equal side-to-side. This is a strong indicator of structural deviation, such •subframe misalignment •control arm mounting point displacement •deformed suspension components •manufacturing or assembly error in chassis geometry ? 2. Front caster angles remain abnormal •left caster: 3. 9° •right caster: 4. 9° •cross-caster difference: 1. 0° a 1° difference exceeds manufacturer tolerances and causes: •vehicle drifting •poor straight-line stability •uneven steering return •potential instability during emergency braking this is a safety-related steering geometry defect. ? 3. Real-world driving confirms unsafe behavior the vehicle cannot maintain straight-line travel, the steering wheel is off-center, and the car exhibits instability at normal speeds. This makes the vehicle unsafe to drive. ? 4. Despite these unresolved issues, the dealership insists the vehicle is “repaired” and demands that I pick it up. They refused to provide frame measurement reports or explanation for the unequal wheelbase. Returning a vehicle with unresolved steering and chassis geometry defects constitutes unsafe vehicle delivery. ? conclusion based on unequal wheelbase, abnormal caster geometry, and inability to drive safely, this vehicle likely contains a structural or assembly defect. I formally request investigation, suspension geometry verification, and required action from the manufacturer, as this is a matter of public road safety.

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 🔎.

When’s he start and you get gas it won turn off but don’t do it , and whend I hit a jump and I tuning he shake it wild.

See all problems of the 1997 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

Clunky sounds from the drive shaft it's hard to steer while in 4x4.

Lower ball joint separated from knuckle and it says 0 recalls repaired I want it replaced because there oem they were never replaced when recalled.

See all problems of the 2001 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 🔎.

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.

See all problems of the 2018 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

Turning a corner my left axle broke and I only have 3100 miles on this vehicle. Still is not fixed because of warranty issues. When I do get it back I don’t know how I’m suppose to feel safe driving it. Upon checking on youtube and internet I see there is a problem with this happing to others. Thank you for your time.

Frame is rusting. Badly.

The vehicle is unstable and easy to lose control! the vehicle height is asymmetrical! the vehicle body shakes! the tires are abnormally worn! the geometry deviation of the vehicle's rear axle is too large.

Supplemental safety description I am submitting this supplemental statement to provide a complete and consolidated description of the ongoing safety concern affecting my vehicle. Vehicle behavior and safety symptoms during normal driving conditions, the vehicle consistently exhibits directional instability, including pulling to one side and difficulty maintaining straight-line tracking. Steering control feels unstable, and the vehicle experiences abnormal harshness and vertical movement over the road surface. The vehicle often feels difficult to control and demonstrates behavior consistent with lateral misalignment, including a crab-walking sensation. During rapid left and right steering inputs, the vehicle exhibits abnormal and asymmetric body movement. One side of the vehicle body rises excessively while the opposite side compresses, resulting in excessive body roll and uneven suspension response. This abnormal dynamic behavior creates a strong perception of instability and increases the risk of loss of control or rollover during steering maneuvers. Additionally, overall traction appears reduced. Under wet or slippery road conditions, the wheels are more prone to slipping, further compromising vehicle stability and steering control. Repair history and dealer involvement the vehicle has been presented to four different Toyota authorized dealerships for the same steering and suspension-related concerns. Multiple wheel alignments, steering calibrations, inspections, and road tests were performed. Despite these repeated repair attempts, the condition persists. Each dealership reported that no abnormal condition was found and stated that the vehicle was operating normally. In at least one instance, a dealership declined to continue further repair attempts while the safety-related condition remained unresolved. Independent review and technical findings after repeated unsuccessful repair attempts, I conducted an independent review to better understand the cause of the on.

Rear leaf springs are flat and curving in opposite direction causing vehicle to bottom out with only 100 pounds in the truck bed. This is a potential safety issue as control problems to keep vehicle going straight.

See all problems of the 2019 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

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.

It was determined by the Toyota dealer where this vehicle was purchased that there are rust holes in the frame. This vehicle's mileage is less than 100,000 miles. I understand there was a recall at one time however the Toyota dealership advised that this truck was not one of the vehicles in the recall at that time. This truck has always been garaged, has low miles and well maintained. You would think it would be able to be driven another 150k miles. This is a safety issue and I don’t feel I should be penalized for taking good care of this vehicle. It is a known fact within the industry that Toyota used bad steel for their frames during this year if manufacture. Please advise what you can do to remedy this situation. Thank you.

See all problems of the 2007 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

I purchased a brand-new 2025 Toyota Tacoma trd off-road. From the first day, the steering wheel was off-center and the vehicle vibrated while driving. At around 500 miles, I noticed severe instability and abnormal tire wear. A wheel alignment report showed: thrust angle: +0. 15° (spec: 0° ± 0. 05°) rear toe: left 0. 23°, right -0. 10° (difference: 0. 33°, spec ? 0. 15°) front caster: both sides out of specification (shown in red on report) driving symptoms include: cannot maintain straight-line driving; requires constant steering correction. Excessive body roll during lane changes or turns. Continuous vibration of the vehicle and steering wheel on smooth roads. Vehicle bounces and momentarily loses control on uneven surfaces. Steering wheel rotation does not match front wheel steering angle. When stationary, turning the steering to full lock causes the body to rise; releasing it causes it to drop. Attempts to repair at Toyota of manhattan (June 2025 – August 2025) were unsuccessful. The dealership repeatedly refused to perform proper inspections, provide reports, or acknowledge the defect, despite multiple appointments and a case opened with Toyota corporate. The defect presents a serious safety risk: reduced vehicle stability, increased stopping distance, loss of steering control during maneuvers, excessive and uneven tire wear, and abnormal fuel consumption (13. 5 mpg with no load). The problem exists from new and has not been corrected.

I am the third owner of a 2011 Toyota Tacoma access cab 2. 7l. I purchased it in oct. 2024 in NY. At that time, there were no visible signs of frame rust. Within 6 months, it developed severe corrosion, including deterioration at the suspension mounts. The vehicle is no longer safe to drive and is available for inspection. Toyota previously recalled earlier Tacomas for the same issue, but for 2011–2017 models, they issued a limited service campaign (k0d) and customer support program (zka), which expired after only 12 years (vs. 15 years previously). This was not classified as a recall, despite serious safety concerns. The prior owner appears to have driven zero miles from 2020–2022, when the campaign was active. The vehicle was registered in vermont, where statewide covid restrictions closed dealerships and suspended non-essential services. No extension or accommodations were provided by Toyota. I discovered the corrosion on [xxx], during a frame inspection immediately after investing $4,800 in bodywork. The mechanic noted the corrosion was extensive and abnormal for a 2011 model—more consistent with a truck from the 1980s. Toyota’s decision to time this campaign at the height of covid and shorten the eligibility window appears negligent and possibly strategic. Now in 2025, many owners are finding catastrophic frame rot after Toyota's limited program has ended. I urge NHTSA to investigate this as a true safety defect, not a service courtesy. Owner testimonials of frame failure after expiration: [xxx] [xxx] [xxx] [xxx] [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

I was driving along and the top hat on my suspension blew out. Toyota used a cast aluminum top hat on the top of the coil over and the shock blew through the top of the top shock mount. They used a steel top hat on the 4runner so I believe they know it is an issue but haven’t had enough issues with it yet to do a recall. I uploaded a picture of what my coil over looks like after it happened and what it is supposed to look like. Stock trd offroad suspension.

See all problems of the 2024 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 🔎.

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? while driving over railroad tracks, the lower ball joint separated from its socket, which caused the cv axle shaft to break apart and led to the separation of the upper ball joint. As a result, the front driver's side tire folded under the fender, causing the truck to abruptly veer off the road and into the right shoulder all parts are available for inspection how was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? when the failure occurred, I was driving over a series of railroad tracks when the truck suddenly veered off the road onto the shoulder. This abrupt veering and stopping put my safety—and the safety of others—at risk, as the drivers behind me had to react suddenly to avoid a collision. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? the truck was serviced in 2006 in response to the recall, having the lower ball joints replaced, however the replacement parts may have failed has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? no were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? no.

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 contact owns a 2007 Toyota Tacoma. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 14v604000 (suspension); and the vehicle was taken to a local dealer for the recall repair; however, the dealer declined to service the vehicle because of the excessive rust to the sub frame of the vehicle. The contact was informed that the sub frame needed to be replaced before the recall repair could be performed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 198,000.

Frame is rusting.

My leaf spring(s) is noisy/loosened and to the best of my limited knowledge is at risk for breaking off and puncturing the fuel tank per repair shops. This issue is not covered under safety recall e02 (e12) by Toyota for the model year 2012 Tacoma. As a consumer, I don't understand the determination of when the recall is cut off for specific model years. I would like for NHTSA and Toyota to analyze this issue as the model year 2012 Tacoma could be at risk. I have case with Toyota customer resolutions that has been closed. Thanks for your attention into this matter.

See all problems of the 2012 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

The truck's frame has severely rusted. The frame has deteriorated. It is unsafe to drive as the frame is breaking in half. According to Toyota, this was a huge problem with the 2006 Tacoma. They will not fix the frame or offer any solution. My son can not safely drive this vehicle.

I took my 2006 Toyota Tacoma ext cab 4x4 v6 to have diagnostic run on it . "exact performance " johnson drive . Kck the differential was shot . However , that was not the final . They did not do full diagnostic . They informed me that my frame was rotted and rusted through and would not last till spring and was a safety hazard. That was Dec. 2024 . The truck has been parked since . Ive had no transportation and can not run right out and buy another truck . I am also not willing to give up the truck either . I have put a lot of hard earned money into this truck believing it to last forever . The motor and train are sound . I do not want to junk the truck . Please , tell me what I can do . Yes . My vehicle is available for inspection upon request.

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.

See all problems of the 2004 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

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.

In March of 2008, I purchased a new 2008 Toyota Tacoma (VIN: [xxx] ) from orleans Toyota in massachusetts. In July 2010 I re-located to new hampshire and registered the vehicle in that state in July 2010 where I have resided since. The odometer reading at that time was 21,220 miles. In September of 2014, I received a safety recall notice from Toyota regarding a potential frame corrosion problem. I scheduled an appointment with the local Toyota dealership in east swanzy nh on September 12, 2014 to address this issue. The odometer reading at the time was 82,068 miles. There were two remediation options, as set by Toyota: a. Inspect frame, clean, and apply crc if no perforations were found b. Inspect frame and if perforations found, replace the frame. Both of these options were intended to mitigate any and all risk of future corrosion of the frame that was a result of a known vehicle design flaw. Toyota chose to apply the crc. I therefore assumed that the frame was intact at that point in time and the issue had been resolved. Between September 2014 and December 2019, I drove the vehicle 62 miles a day on [xxx] in nh commuting between hillsboro and keene for all 12 months of the year. This represents a total mileage of 87,939 (36,054 of which can be considered winter driving during the months of November thru March). The Toyota dealership inspected and passed the vehicle in 2023 without mention of any issue regarding the frame. On [xxx] of this year, the Toyota dealership rejected the state inspection due to severe frame corrosion (to the point that the technician felt it was a risk putting the truck on a lift). It should be noted that this vehicle has only been driven 3,000 since it passed inspection in 2023, none of which were during winter months. In addition, there are no visible signs of rust or corrosion on the exterior of the vehicle. The above points to the fact that the crc application in 2014 was ineffective in mitigating the safety issue. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foi.

Found hole in frame (chassis).

See all problems of the 2002 Toyota Tacoma 🔎.

Tried to avoid a deer and the frame of truck felt unstable and felt like it was folding. I looked at the frame there are rust holes through out the whole frame. How could they design this and not back it up.

I recently lost both front wheels in two different incidents within a month. Early August drivers side ball joint failed on me. And on September 25th the passenger side failed on me on the freeway almost causing a collision with a mercedes and a semi truck.

The springs or decks are in poor condition, the material, I want to know if they have a warranty.