2023 Toyota Tacoma Owner Complaints

Over the past several months, I have encountered the Vehicle Stability Control system engaging approximately 6 times when cornering and braking on dry pavement. It is a startling event that I feel causes a hazard. If I encountered a problem while this was happening, I am not sure I could control the vehicle. I have taken the truck to the dealer three times. The first time they turned the rear drums, stating that was the cause of the vibration I reported. After it happened again and took it back a few weeks later, they replaced the rear brakes and both axles. When it happened again, I was able to record the event and noticed the VSC system light flash on the dashboard when it occurred. The dealer then reported that this was a normal characteristic of the vehicle. Additionally, the dealer installed a 2 inch lift on the truck prior to the sale. I have researched Tacoma forums and found others reporting similar incidents. The solutions including resetting the VSC system to calibrate for the lift, replacing the speed sensors, or replacing the wiring to the speed sensors. Some noted that if the wiring was not disconnected when the lift was installed but instead stretched, that could damage the wires. I asked the dealer to investigate and they declined. I then contacted Toyota headquarters, and they also declined.

8/11/2023

2023 Toyota Tacoma's doors are not holding in the open position on a 10 degree pitch of our driveway, slamming shut on the legs of the driver. Passenger side doors are holding open fine, but the driver side doors are closing on me in the driveway. When I took it to the Toyota dealership, I am told that this perfectly fine. Meanwhile, we have never had this problem with any of our other vehicles, since we've lived in this home from 2005. Can you please tell me what is the pitch that the doors are required to hold by law? The dealership is of no help, and my left leg is constantly covered in bruises. This has been happening since I bought the car in late May.

8/22/2023

This Toyota Tacoma's soy based wiring attracts rodents and I have had to have repairs for the wiring. My 2 other older vehicles in the same location that does not have the soy based wiring there no problem. This is a world wide issue and no one has done nothing about. This is a safety issue that can be potentially dangerous, if some of the safety systems fail due to soy based wiring attracting rodents.

12/5/2023

Bearing failure inside heater blower motor causing fan motor to burn out and filling the cabin with toxic electrical smoke

1/18/2024

Experience steering wheel vibrations between speeds of 60 mph and 80 mph - have taken vehicle to dealership and they have confirmed problem but said it was a characteristic condition of the suspension on vehicle. It is highly distracting when operating a motor vehicle at freeway speeds and with out warning the steering wheel starts shaking back and forth. Dealership has rebalanced and rotated tires 5 times and performed vehicle alignment - recently they changed the tire and loading information decal which changed the air pressure from 36psi down to 29 psi (did not tell me about that) vehicle rides better but steering wheel vibration still happens unannounced at speeds between 60 mph & 80 mph.

8/3/2023

The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V480000 (Steering) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

9/22/2023

Wiring harness on the vehicle is being completely replaced due to "rodent damage" according to the dealer. I am not an automotive engineer but if compromised wiring finally fails while driving I suspect a number of systems could be affected. There was no indication of this problem during vehicle operations. My insurance company agreed to pay for this about $7200. I have owned the vehicle for ten months.

2/17/2024

When starting the truck and warming up a minute or so and then putting in reverse to back out or forward to pull into a carport, idling in gear with your foot only on the brake, the engines surges/revs up with just the slight turn of the steering wheel causing an unintended speed increase. I believe that this could cause a minor accident. It does not appear to be caused by the engine having a fast idle when cold as the idle drops when you shift into a gear. What appears to be happening is the ECU over compensates for the slight strain caused by the power steering pump when you turn the wheel. My carport is narrow and does not align exactly with the driveway, you have to jog left a foot or two and then right to pull in or back out. At the second service visit on 12/12/23 the dealer then checked and observed this behavior and reported "This is normal operation and directly related to power steering pump activation when wheel is turned in any direction" The vehicle was purchased new last May and currently has 3,995 miles on it. I think it probably had this problem from new but I had mostly just pulled straight in and out of the driveway until the fall when it was mostly parked in the carport as it was not being driven as regularly. I don't think it does it as bad when fully warmed up which takes quite a while for this engine.

4/21/2024

I received a recall notice saying that welding debris on the rear axle could cause bolts to loosen resulting in parts falling off the truck and crashing. I have called servco Toyota Honolulu service department 3 separate times. Talked to a number of managers and representatives. The first time they said they cannot do the recall yet and are waiting for parts and procedures, would not give me a date and said I cannot schedule a service appointment. In the recall it is clearly laid out to inspect and retighten bolts, and replace any damaged parts. I asked why they cannot inspect my truck and retighten the bolts now, and they don’t have an answer. They said I would receive a call back so I waited from last week 2/27 and did not hear anything back. After calling again today I was told there is nothing they can do because they don’t have parts. However the recall clearly states that the truck needs to be inspected and the bolts need to be tightened. There are no additional parts necessary unless components have become damaged. Servco has shown Hawaii customers countless times that they truly do not care about their customers as this is the only dealership on island and people do not have any other choice but to return for terrible service. This recall is a safety issue and I do not feel “wait till April” is an acceptable solution to this problem as my truck is driven daily

3/4/2024

The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle in the morning, he heard an abnormally loud clicking sound coming from the rear end of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was shifted into drive(D) and the front wheels would roll but the rear wheels would seize. The contact engaged and disengaged the 4WD function for the vehicle to respond as needed. Additionally, the contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost stability and started swaying from right to left in the rear of the vehicle. The contact stated the rear wheels would independently seize as if the brake pedal was depressed, causing instability and steering control difficulty. Additionally, the contact observed that while braking while following a curve in the roadway to the right or to the left, there was excessive vibration in the steering wheel and with the vehicle. The contact stated that the vibration was accompanied by an abnormal throbbing noise. The contact stated that once the steering wheel was straightened the abnormal sound stopped. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the vehicle needed to be re-aligned. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact drove the vehicle back to the same dealer and was advised that the failure could not be duplicated. The contact researched online and related the stability failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V152000 (Power Train). The contact had not yet received the notification but observed that the VIN was associated with the recall. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 19,436.

3/5/2024

My vehicle was T-boned while driving through an intersection. After being hit, my vehicle continued moving forward, but the brakes would not engage or work. I pressed them several times and as firmly as possible, but the vehicle would not stop or slow down. As I approached a nearby curb, I pulled the emergency brake, which slowed down my vehicle slightly before colliding head-on with a fire hydrant and utility pole. The impact completely totaled the vehicle, yet the airbags did not deploy. Bottom line, in period of a few seconds, the brakes completely failed and the airbags did not deploy. The end result could have been devastating, but fortunately was not. The vehicle is set to be released to the insurance representative soon, but no analysis has been completed. A police report was filed. The vehicle is brand new (less than 2 months old) and no indications of fault or malfunction occurred prior to the incident.

4/29/2023

The contact owned a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 75-80 MPH, he fell asleep behind the wheel when the vehicle proceeded through a wired fence and crashed into a tree. The air bags failed to deploy. The contact sustained soreness to his neck. No medical attention was required however, the contact stated that he went to see a doctor the following day. A police report was filed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot and deemed a total loss by the insurance company. The dealer nor the manufacturer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 18,844.

9/5/2023

My vehicle was T-boned while driving through an intersection. After being hit, my vehicle continued moving forward, but the brakes would not engage or work. I pressed them several times and as firmly as possible, but the vehicle would not stop or slow down. As I approached a nearby curb, I pulled the emergency brake, which slowed down my vehicle slightly before colliding head-on with a fire hydrant and utility pole. The impact completely totaled the vehicle, yet the airbags did not deploy. Bottom line, in period of a few seconds, the brakes completely failed and the airbags did not deploy. The end result could have been devastating, but fortunately was not. The vehicle is set to be released to the insurance representative soon, but no analysis has been completed. A police report was filed. The vehicle is brand new (less than 2 months old) and no indications of fault or malfunction occurred prior to the incident.

4/29/2023

Twice, while backing out of my driveway, the brakes have locked up. The brakes stay locked until you tap them repetitively for a few minutes. Then the brakes will slowly release while going forward, but only lock up again when put in reverse. The vehicle cannot be driven until the next day, then it performs normally. luckily this happened in my driveway before I got on to the street. When the brakes lock, it is violent, throwing me against the seat back. The vehicle has been to two different dealers, but they could not duplicate the issue. When this happens multiple brake warning messages pop up on the dash. The manufacture has not inspected the vehicle. In fact, when I reported it to them, and sent pictures of the warning messages, they insinuated that the pictures were not from my vehicle. The manufacture stated that they do not consider this a safety issue. I do not feel safe driving this vehicle. If the brakes lock while out on the hi-way it could cause an accident.

9/15/2024

Experience steering wheel vibrations between speeds of 60 mph and 80 mph - have taken vehicle to dealership and they have confirmed problem but said it was a characteristic condition of the suspension on vehicle. It is highly distracting when operating a motor vehicle at freeway speeds and with out warning the steering wheel starts shaking back and forth. Dealership has rebalanced and rotated tires 5 times and performed vehicle alignment - recently they changed the tire and loading information decal which changed the air pressure from 36psi down to 29 psi (did not tell me about that) vehicle rides better but steering wheel vibration still happens unannounced at speeds between 60 mph & 80 mph.

8/3/2023

I received a recall notice saying that welding debris on the rear axle could cause bolts to loosen resulting in parts falling off the truck and crashing. I have called servco Toyota Honolulu service department 3 separate times. Talked to a number of managers and representatives. The first time they said they cannot do the recall yet and are waiting for parts and procedures, would not give me a date and said I cannot schedule a service appointment. In the recall it is clearly laid out to inspect and retighten bolts, and replace any damaged parts. I asked why they cannot inspect my truck and retighten the bolts now, and they don’t have an answer. They said I would receive a call back so I waited from last week 2/27 and did not hear anything back. After calling again today I was told there is nothing they can do because they don’t have parts. However the recall clearly states that the truck needs to be inspected and the bolts need to be tightened. There are no additional parts necessary unless components have become damaged. Servco has shown Hawaii customers countless times that they truly do not care about their customers as this is the only dealership on island and people do not have any other choice but to return for terrible service. This recall is a safety issue and I do not feel “wait till April” is an acceptable solution to this problem as my truck is driven daily

3/4/2024

The camera system is sub par. The video is grainy fuzzy and jumpy. It looks as though you are looking through a dark tunnel. Much worse that my 2021. Service advisor agrees the clarity and quality was unacceptable. The head unit was replaced but nothing changed. TAS case [XXX] was opened. Tech states quality was the same as other 2022 Tacomas when compared. I guess if everyone’s is the same that makes it ok. I feel the quality of the video might be 200x300 and is unsafe at this quality. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

10/26/2023

Passenger side windshield washer nozzle sprays the lower part of the hood. Only a little of the stream reaches the windshield. Outcome is that dust, grime, debris typically smear on passenger side of the windshield. This causes reduced visibility. Truck is a Toyota Certified Pre-Owned (TPO) delivered 18Mar24 at 13K miles. Washer nozzle problem has been existent since delivery. Repair request was made at first oil change. Unlike many other brands & makes, the nozzle can't be re-aimed by simple bending. Problem could be solved by using a nozzle with a lower "aim," or some sort of adjustment. Nozzle part is difficult for car owner to remove and replace.

7/24/2025

Passenger Side windshield wiper fluid sprayer. It sprays the top of the vehicle hood during operation preventing fluid from the sprayer reaching the windshield. Prevents potential debris from being cleared off the windshield whether dirt, mud, and bugs or Ice and snow in the winter. The dealer confirmed that 2/3 2023 Toyota Tacoma's on the lot had a similar problem and Toyota had no available fix. A fix was attempted by Maguire Toyota on Grand Island NY. Unsuccessful they attempted to contact a Toyota Rep and have no solution available. No warning lamps or messages illuminate.

7/13/2023

Wiring harness on the vehicle is being completely replaced due to "rodent damage" according to the dealer. I am not an automotive engineer but if compromised wiring finally fails while driving I suspect a number of systems could be affected. There was no indication of this problem during vehicle operations. My insurance company agreed to pay for this about $7200. I have owned the vehicle for ten months.

2/17/2024

The front driver's seat is loose and has movement/play. Described by dealer service tech as a 'wobble'. Seat is not fully secure/stable. Vehicle was taken to original delivery dealer (Dublin Toyota, 4321 Toyota Dr, Dublin CA 94568) for inspection, RO#[XXX]. The vehicle was returned without the issue being corrected. Received verbal response that the dealer was not able to do anything about it (incl replacement of components, etc. and was told other 2023 Model Year Tacomas exhibit the same behavior of the loose driver's seat). Called and spoke with Toyota Brand Engagement (800) 331-4331 as instructed by the service advisor. Ticket was recorded as case [XXX] and was closed without solving the issue. I was advised by the Toyota case in that case [XXX], where the agent recommended I speak with another dealer (Livermore Toyota) to get a second opinion before the case could get escalated. The vehicle was not repaired and I was sent home with the loose seat. Per the description from Repair Order [XXX], on [XXX]: "Cause: DRIVER'S SEAT SEEMS LOOSE AND WOBBLES.REMOVE SEAT ASSEMBLY AND CHECK ALL HARDWARE.EVERYTHING CHECKED OK.REINSTALL SEAT AND TIGHTEN MOUNTING BOLTS.CHECK WITH ANOTHER 2023 TACOMA VIN [XXX] . DRIVER'S SEAT OPERATION IS THE SAME. THANK YOU 2426" I strongly believe that a loose driver's seat that exhibits 'wobble' is unsafe and also causes discomfort / lack of confidence for the driver. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

3/26/2024

The camera is horrible. Very gritty and grainy I took it to the dealership they agreed. Tried replacing but it is still bad. I previously owned a 2020 Rav 4 and the camera was very crisp and clear. Camera should be just as good if not better for a truck. They have more blind spots. This has been an issue since I purchased the vehicle in December 2023 which is only about 5 months.

4/3/2024

The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while reversing, the RPM and engine surged while turning the steering wheel. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who informed the contact that there was no coverage for the failure of the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to TSB: 0125-18. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 300.

5/29/2024

Twice, while backing out of my driveway, the brakes have locked up. The brakes stay locked until you tap them repetitively for a few minutes. Then the brakes will slowly release while going forward, but only lock up again when put in reverse. The vehicle cannot be driven until the next day, then it performs normally. luckily this happened in my driveway before I got on to the street. When the brakes lock, it is violent, throwing me against the seat back. The vehicle has been to two different dealers, but they could not duplicate the issue. When this happens multiple brake warning messages pop up on the dash. The manufacture has not inspected the vehicle. In fact, when I reported it to them, and sent pictures of the warning messages, they insinuated that the pictures were not from my vehicle. The manufacture stated that they do not consider this a safety issue. I do not feel safe driving this vehicle. If the brakes lock while out on the hi-way it could cause an accident.

9/15/2024

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.

4/20/2025

The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that upon refueling, the fuel gauge indicated that there was 1/8 tank full, even though the fuel tank was full. There was no warning light illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 4,700.

7/10/2025