Toyota Tacoma Years To Avoid - 8 Worst Years

The Toyota Tacoma has been a reliable and trusted pickup truck since its introduction in 1995. Its success can be attributed to the various features that make it an ideal choice for off-road journeys. With a powerful engine, six-speed manual transmission, and durable construction, the Tacoma will suit all your needs when going off-road.

However, when choosing which year model you should purchase, Dashboardwarning is here to help ensure you pick the best used Tacoma year model for your needs. Plenty of options are available depending on what you need from this vehicle, starting as a compact size in its first generation and then transforming into a midsize pickup in its second and third generations.

Toyota Tacoma is a popular choice for drivers, but some several-year models should be avoided due to the high number of reported issues. In 2006, 2007, and 2008, Tacomas had significant problems with paint, body, and engine defects. The 2009 model's interior accessories are faulty and often malfunctioning, along with many lights, body, and engine faults.

The 2011 Toyota Tacoma has widespread complaints regarding nearly every component, while the 2012 Tacoma has mainly drivetrain and engine issues. The 2016 and 2017 models also have various transmission problems, making driving hazardous. Furthermore, the repair costs associated with the 2007 model are costly, making it an unwise option.

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Toyota Tacoma Years To Avoid List

Individuals want to explore the outdoors when searching for a reliable and powerful Toyota Tacoma. The right model can provide confidence in its performance while easily navigating off-road trails. However, certain year models may have significant flaws that make them unfit for purchase; thus, it is important to be aware of these if considering any specific models. Human Content does not recommend purchasing these year models due to their unreliable nature.

The list of Tacoma years to avoid:

• 2006 Toyota Tacoma
• 2007 Toyota Tacoma
• 2008 Toyota Tacoma
• 2009 Toyota Tacoma
• 2011 Toyota Tacoma
• 2012 Toyota Tacoma
• 2016 Toyota Tacoma
• 2017 Toyota Tacoma

2006, 2007, and 2008 Toyota Tacoma year models have all been known to have problems with chipping paint and some concerning transmission and engine failures. Most commonly, at an average of 100,000 miles on the 2006 model frame, rusting or breaking completely is a common issue that can cost upwards of $3,500 to repair. The 2007 year model has received reports of sticky accelerators and peeling coats, which can incur costs ranging from $5,000-$10,000 for repairs to be done.

On the other hand, a 2008 or 2009 Toyota Tacoma may suffer from early issues such as sudden acceleration and clutch slipping; these are less expensive but potentially more dangerous than their predecessors. Models from 2011 onwards experience many headlight issues, such as flickering lights, cracking covers, and repetitive clicking sounds. In 2012, models often encountered engine defects and heavy vibrations when driving around 30k miles after purchase.

Finally, 2016-2017 models present many safety concerns, including dozens of reports on transmission flaws observed in both years - especially the 2016 model, which also suffers from a faulty engine resulting in it wandering off track and failing to shift properly even under cold weather conditions making them particularly unsafe purchases overall. One should avoid purchasing any of these specific year models due to their numerous faults mentioned above.

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Common Toyota Tacoma Problems

1. The Toyota Tacoma is one of the most trusted compact trucks in the U.S.. Still, unfortunately, it has some reliability issues you should be aware of — such as peeling paint and faulty transmissions.
2. Paint on the roof of a Tacoma can inexplicably start to peel, costing up to $3,000 for repainting. High-mileage Tacomas between 1995 and 2015 may have faulty transmission systems due to an incorrectly adjusted throttle position sensor or defective solenoid.
3. Lower ball joint issues have been common in Tacomas from 1995 to 2007; they cause steering wheel difficulty and self-centering problems with extra noise from the front suspension.
4. If your Tacoma's engine isn't engaging properly, it could be due to a faulty starter — an issue that usually affects high-mileage vehicles and requires replacement rather than repair.

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Which Year Models of Toyota Tacoma Are Safe to Buy Used?

The Toyota Tacoma provides a memorable off-road experience for those who purchase one of its many reliable year models. Avoiding the faulty year models and opting for any recommended ones is advised to ensure optimal performance. The following year models are deemed safe when purchasing used: 2005, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2017.

The most reliable year models of Tacoma:

• 1995 Toyota Tacoma
• 1996 Toyota Tacoma
• 1997 Toyota Tacoma
• 1998 Toyota Tacoma
• 1999 Toyota Tacoma
• 2000 Toyota Tacoma
• 2001 Toyota Tacoma
• 2002 Toyota Tacoma
• 2003 Toyota Tacoma
• 2004 Toyota Tacoma
• 2005 Toyota Tacoma
• 2010 Toyota Tacoma
• 2013 Toyota Tacoma
• 2014 Toyota Tacoma
• 2015 Toyota Tacoma
• 2018 Toyota Tacoma
• 2019 Toyota Tacoma
• 2020 Toyota Tacoma

Toyota Tacomas manufactured between 1995 and 2004 are renowned for their reliability. Most reported issues are minor defects that appear only after the car has been driven 100,000 miles. With proper maintenance and regular check-ups, these vehicles can be relied upon to provide an excellent service life.

Moving on to later models, 2014, 2018, and 2019, Tacomas offer similar levels of reliability but with some minor glitches appearing sooner than expected, such as premature seat wear or A/C unit failure under 40,000 miles. The 2013 model is more susceptible to drivetrain and vibration problems, while the 2005 model faces paint-chipping issues over 80,000 miles. There is also a chance of running into the engine or brake-related malfunctions in 2010 or 2015 year models; however, this is unlikely if normal maintenance procedures are followed. Finally, the 2020 version comes completely free from complaints due to its recent production date. Dashboard warning recommends all Toyota Tacoma models listed above as sound investments regardless of age.

Final Reviews

Owners of Toyota Tacoma vehicles have reported a range of issues on platforms such as several websites. The most common problems reported include transmission failures, paint chipping, and engine malfunctions. Owners have widely documented these issues, which can severely affect the vehicle's overall performance if not addressed promptly.

The Toyota Tacoma is one of the most popular trucks in the United States. It has earned its status as the best-selling midsize pickup truck through its off-road capabilities and reliable performance over time. However, some important things to consider before purchasing a used Toyota Tacoma.

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Although older models may have an outstanding reliability score, they don't pass the test due to their outdated exterior design and engine technology. Of course, you should expect to pay more for a pre-owned Tacoma since they tend to hold their value quite well despite being behind on modern advancements in their field. Ultimately, buying a used Toyota Tacoma isn't your best bet if you're looking for a midsize truck that passes the tests of time and can keep up with current trends.