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2023 Toyota Tacoma Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·16 Critical Recalls
2023 Toyota Tacoma Report

Overall Score

6.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The driver airbag system is a primary concern, with significant recall activity and reports of non-deployment, demanding thorough inspection.
  • Electrical system issues, including rodent damage to wiring, are frequently reported and can lead to costly repairs and system failures.
  • Steering problems, ranging from vibrations to component failure, are a common complaint and warrant careful examination.
  • While rated average for reliability, the high number of recalls suggests potential for future repair costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 Toyota Tacoma

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma is a capable mid-size truck known for its ruggedness, but used-car shoppers should be aware of its reliability record. With 25 recalls and 57 complaints logged with NHTSA, there's a notable number of potential issues to consider. The truck earns a 4-star overall safety rating. High fuel costs are a factor, with a combined EPA rating of 18 MPG. The 3.5L V6 engine paired with a manual 6-speed transmission and part-time 4WD offers traditional truck capability.

Critical Failure Risk

Issues often stem from rodent damage to wiring harnesses, leading to system malfunctions and potential fire risks.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,800 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls25
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

57
Electrical System8
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
18
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
21
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.0/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a truck with strong off-road credentials and a reputation for holding value, who are willing to meticulously inspect for known issues and confirm recall completion.

Avoid if

Those prioritizing trouble-free ownership above all else or who are not prepared for potential repair costs associated with electrical, steering, or airbag system problems.

2023 Toyota Tacoma Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
Part-time 4-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Pickup
EPA Combined MPG
18

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Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 8 reports

2. Steering

Usage: 7 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $60 - $100

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full specs and trim-level context
25 recall campaign details & remedy notes
57 owner complaints by system
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2023 Toyota Tacoma reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma is 6.0/10. Reliability score is 6.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 25. Owner complaints: 57.

How practical is the 2023 Toyota Tacoma for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 Toyota Tacoma?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (typical at 55,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1500).

What engine is in the 2023 Toyota Tacoma?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2023 Toyota Tacoma use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma?▾

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Toyota Tacoma?▾

15 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What body style is the 2023 Toyota Tacoma?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma, body style is pickup.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Toyota Tacoma use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma, drivetrain is Part-time 4-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2023 Toyota Tacoma good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2023 Toyota Tacoma is a popular mid-size truck known for its ruggedness. However, for the US market, its tuning potential is significant... Popular platforms: Off-road, Utility.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2023 Toyota Tacoma?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (8 reports, 14% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Toyota Tacoma?▾

This model year has 25 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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