How the 2023 compares
Too new to judge fully
It has been on the road 3 years, so complaints are still coming in. So far it has fewer than a typical older Tacoma year, which is normal for a newer car. The area owners report most so far is the electrical system.
Based on owner complaints to NHTSA, compared with other Tacoma years from 2012 to 2024. A good year can still be a bad car, so check the one you are looking at.
Owners have filed 54 complaints with NHTSA about the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The most reported problem area is the electrical system (12, 22% of complaints), followed by the engine and cooling and the steering. That is the fewest complaints of any Tacoma year from 2012 to 2024 on file. It has 4 recalls.
Complaints54filed with NHTSA
Recalls4for this model year
Crashes55 injuries reported
Fires1reported in complaints
1 of these complaints came from Utah owners.
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Start my car searchMost reported problems
Problem areas ranked by how many complaints mention them. One complaint can name more than one area. Open an area to see what to check on a 2023 Toyota Tacoma before you buy.
Electrical system
12 complaintsDead batteries, warning lights, failed screens and cameras, and electrical shorts.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- Test every switch: windows, locks, mirrors, seat heaters, the screen, the backup camera, Bluetooth and every USB port.
- Watch the dash at startup. Every warning light should come on briefly and then go out.
- Have the battery and charging system tested. A weak alternator or battery drain shows up here.
Tools that help
What owners said
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…Owner complaint, filed 2025, at 4,700 miles
The owner and operator of the vehicle, stated that they were driving the vehicle on the Interstate when they noticed white smoke and ashes emanating from the steering column. They pulled into the parking lot to investigate and opened the hood to see no smoke or fire. When they returned to the passenger compartment, the smoke turned black…Owner complaint, filed 2025
Engine and cooling
9 complaintsStalling, misfires, oil consumption, leaks, overheating and engine failure.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- Ask the seller not to warm the car up, and start it cold. Listen for ticking, knocking or a rough idle in the first minute.
- Pull the oil dipstick and the oil cap. Low oil, a gasoline smell or a milky film on the cap are reasons to walk away or get an inspection.
- Plug in an OBD2 scanner. Stored or pending codes matter, and so do readiness monitors that show "not ready", which usually means the codes were cleared right before the sale.
- Ask for oil change records. A gap in the records on a model known for engine complaints is a negotiating point at minimum.
Tools that help
What owners said
Oil cap went loosed and fell off after a few hundred miles of driving. This is a very common thing in 2023 Toyota tacoma.Owner complaint, filed 2026
Deep knocking noise they call the taco tick is actually the a problem with the motor. There is an issue valve train and timing chain, tensioners and pulleys. Toyota USA decide to tell all consumers it’s just the way they sound. So they do not have to repair millions of these trucks on recall they refuse to repair under manufacture…Owner complaint, filed 2026
Steering
9 complaintsLoss of power steering assist, wandering, play in the wheel and noises when turning.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- Turn the wheel lock to lock while parked and listen for groaning, clicking or binding.
- On a straight road the car should track straight with the wheel centered and no loose feeling.
- A power steering warning on the dash, even briefly, deserves a mechanic’s look before you buy.
Tools that help
What owners said
While checking wiper fluid levels for 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off Road, noticed power steering fluid was below minimum line. No leaks were noticed on the ground where the vehicle is normally parked, underneath the reservoir or along the hoses related to the power steering system. Upon inspecting the tie rod boots, it was noticed that they…Owner complaint, filed 2026
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while the vehicle was receiving maintenance by a local dealer, the technician became aware of a leak coming from the steering wheel. The technician stated that he needed to verify the vehicle a second time to confirm if the failure was a manufacturer’s defect. The vehicle was…Owner complaint, filed 2024, at 35,000 miles
Air bags
8 complaintsAir bag warning lights, air bags that did not deploy, and inflator recalls.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- The air bag (SRS) light should come on at startup and go out within a few seconds. If it stays on, the system may not work in a crash.
- Air bag recalls are some of the most serious. Check this exact VIN for open recalls and get proof any recall work was done.
Tools that help
What owners said
Only the side window airbags deployed during a collision. There was no protection from the front impact. Insurance representatives have the vehicle and we are waiting to hear about the outcome. While in the car pool lane traveling approximately 65mph, a Honda civic left the lane to the right of us and veered directly into our lane. I…Owner complaint, filed 2026
I got into a head-on collision with a cement center median going roughly 45-50MPH after fishtailing on black ice. My airbags did not deploy at that speed, I contact toyota corporate and they only removed the CDR information and did not assess the airbag sensors themselves. I was able to press the SOS button for EMS to arrive. My safety…Owner complaint, filed 2026
Transmission and drivetrain
7 complaintsHarsh or delayed shifts, slipping, shuddering, CVT whine, and drivetrain clunks.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- Drive it from cold if you can. Shifts should be smooth in every gear, including reverse.
- Feel for slipping (revs rise without the car speeding up), shudder at low speed and a delay when you put it in gear.
- Listen for whining, which is a common CVT complaint, and clunks when you go from drive to reverse.
- If it has 4WD or AWD, engage it on the test drive and ask when the transmission and differential fluids were last changed.
Tools that help
What owners said
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for the recall repair of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V152000 (Power Train). The contact became aware of a weld splatter and that the nuts were rusted. The dealer marked the vehicle repaired; however, the contact stated that the repair was not completed. The…Owner complaint, filed 2025, at 21,303 miles
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V152000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and…Owner complaint, filed 2024
Brakes and stability control
6 complaintsBrakes that feel soft or grab, grinding, ABS and stability control faults.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- The pedal should feel firm and the car should stop straight without pulling, grinding or a pulsing pedal.
- The ABS and stability control lights should go out after startup and stay out.
- Look through the wheels at the rotors. A deep lip on the edge means brakes are due soon, which is a fair thing to negotiate on.
Tools that help
What owners said
This vehicle has had judder issues since new when braking. It has been in the shop over 10 times for this issue with the last being this week. I conducted an internet search and see other new owners complaining about the same issue with no resolve. I was told I would be getting new rotors and when I picked my vehicle up from Toyota of…Owner complaint, filed 2024
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V152000 (POWER TRAIN). The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the steering wheel was firm, the brake pedal was firm, and the vehicle was violently vibrating. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The…Owner complaint, filed 2026, at 43,000 miles
Lights, wipers and visibility
5 complaintsHeadlights that dim or fail, wiper and washer failures, and windshield cracks.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- Check every light: headlights on low and high, fog lights, brake lights, turn signals and reverse lights.
- Run the wipers on every speed with washer fluid, and run the defroster front and back.
Tools that help
What owners said
Headlight tabs break causing housing to rub against body and crack. Additionally it makes headlights move which necessitates constant readjustment.Owner complaint, filed 2026
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…Owner complaint, filed 2025
Driver assist systems
3 complaintsPhantom braking, false collision warnings, and lane keeping or backup sensors that act up.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- Where it is safe, try the adaptive cruise and lane keeping on the test drive and watch for sudden braking or warnings with nothing there.
- Check the windshield in front of the camera and the bumper sensors for cracks, chips or poor repairs.
- Ask whether the windshield has been replaced. The camera has to be recalibrated afterward, and many shops skip it.
Tools that help
What owners said
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…Owner complaint, filed 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…Owner complaint, filed 2024
Suspension
2 complaintsClunks over bumps, broken springs, worn struts and uneven tire wear.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- Drive over a few bumps and potholes slowly with the radio off and listen for clunks or rattles.
- Check the tires for uneven wear on the inside or outside edges, a sign of alignment or suspension trouble.
- Look behind the wheels for oily, wet shocks or struts.
Tools that help
What owners said
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…Owner complaint, filed 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…Owner complaint, filed 2023
Cruise control and acceleration
2 complaintsHesitation, loss of power, sudden acceleration and cruise control problems.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- On the test drive, press the gas gently and firmly. The response should be smooth with no lag or surge.
- Set the cruise control, then use resume and cancel to make sure each one works.
Tools that help
What owners said
After initial start of engine and at idle there is surge of the engine and lunge forward while in drive. The danger is unexpected forward movement of the truck when pulling forward at idle by lunging forward with risk of hitting that which is directly in front such as a parked car or the front of my garage. This is an ongoing event.Owner complaint, filed 2026
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the transmission failed to operate properly while driving 35 MPH and attempting to accelerate. While driving uphill or downhill, the transmission was slow to shift into the intended gear, and the vehicle was slow to accelerate. Additionally, there was an abnormal sound while…Owner complaint, filed 2026, at 15,000 miles
Fuel system
1 complaintHesitation, stalling, fuel smell, fuel pump and injector failures.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- Smell around the engine bay and under the rear of the car for raw fuel.
- On the test drive, accelerate firmly from a stop and up a grade. Stumbling, surging or a flashing check engine light are red flags.
- Fuel pump recalls are common. Check this exact VIN for open recalls before you buy.
Tools that help
What owners said
On February 16 I started my vehicle to drive home from work and the vehicle threw multiple error codes and shutdown while driving and would not start again. It was towed to the dealership. The dealership advised the problem was remedied. 11 days later the same problem occurred, vehicle threw multiple error codes and shutdown while…Owner complaint, filed 2026
Seats and seat belts
1 complaintBelts that will not latch or retract, seat adjusters and passenger occupancy sensors.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- Pull out and latch every seat belt, and let each one retract on its own.
- Try every seat adjuster, and watch for a passenger air bag "off" light when an adult is in the seat.
Tools that help
What owners said
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…Owner complaint, filed 2024
Body, doors and structure
1 complaintRust, doors and liftgates that will not latch, leaks, and frame or structure concerns.What to check before you buy
What to check before you buy
- Look underneath with a flashlight. Utah road salt is hard on frames, brake lines and the bottoms of doors.
- Open and close every door, the hood and the liftgate, and lock and unlock each one.
- Use a paint thickness gauge and compare panels. A panel that reads very differently from the rest has likely been repaired.
Tools that help
What owners said
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…Owner complaint, filed 2025
Toyota Tacoma complaints by year
Compare the 2023 with other years before you choose one. Tap a year to see its problems.
Compare with similar 2023 midsize trucks
Each car is rated against its own other years, since popular models always get more complaints than rare ones.
| Car | Vs. its other years | Recalls |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 Toyota Tacoma | Too new to judge | 4 |
| 2023 Chevrolet Colorado | Too new to judge | 3 |
| 2023 Ford Ranger | Too new to judge | 4 |
2023 Toyota Tacoma recalls
This is every recall issued for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma, not what is still open on one car. A recall that was fixed does not show up any differently here. Check a VIN at NHTSA to see what is still open on the car you are looking at, and ask the seller for proof any recall work was done.
Steering Column
- Risk
- A deactivated driver's air bag will not deploy as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect and replace the spiral cable assembly as necessary, free of charge.
Full recall summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, Lexus RX350, 2023-2024 NX250, and NX350 vehicles that may have been incorrectly repaired under previous NHTSA recall number 23V-480. An electrical connection inside the steering column's spiral cable assembly may be insufficiently welded, causing the connection to separate and deactivate the driver's air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Transmission and drivetrain Axle assembly
- Risk
- Axle shaft separation can cause a loss of vehicle stability and brake performance, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect the rear axle assembly, tighten the axle retaining nuts as necessary, and repair or replace any damaged components, free of charge.
Full recall summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturer (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Tacoma vehicles. The axle shaft sub-assembly may separate from the axle housing due to debris causing improperly secured fasteners.
Steering Column
- Risk
- A deactivated driver's air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect and replace the spiral cable assembly, if necessary, free of charge.
Full recall summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Corolla, Corolla Cross, Corolla Cross Hybrid, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Tacoma, 2023 Lexus RX350, RX350 Hybrid, RX500 Hybrid, 2023-2024 Lexus NX250, NX350, and NX350 Hybrid vehicles. An electrical connection inside the steering column's spiral cable assembly may be insufficiently welded, causing the connection to separate and deactivate the driver's air bag. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Child seat Vehicle latch anchor
- Risk
- An insufficient weld may prevent the child seat from being anchored properly, allowing the seat to move during a sudden stop or crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Fix
- Dealers will inspect the upper child seat anchors and reweld the child seat anchors, as necessary.
Full recall summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Tacoma vehicles. One or more of the individual welds in the upper child seat anchors may be insufficient. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage System."
2023 Toyota Tacoma questions
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Toyota Tacoma?
The most reported problem areas on the 2023 Toyota Tacoma are the electrical system (12 complaints), the engine and cooling (9 complaints) and the steering (9 complaints).
Is the 2023 Toyota Tacoma a good year to buy?
Too new to judge fully. It has been on the road 3 years, so complaints are still coming in. So far it has fewer than a typical older Tacoma year, which is normal for a newer car. The area owners report most so far is the electrical system. Based on owner complaints to NHTSA, compared with other Tacoma years from 2012 to 2024. A good year can still be a bad car, so check the one you are looking at.
How many recalls does the 2023 Toyota Tacoma have?
NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The most recent, from Jan 2025, covers the column. Recalls cover the whole model year, so check the VIN of the car you are looking at to see which are still open.
Which Toyota Tacoma years should I avoid?
The Tacoma years with the most complaints compared with the rest are 2016. Years with clearly fewer complaints are 2014, 2020 and 2021. Years from 2022 on are too new to rate fairly yet.
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These problems are for the model year as a whole. Here is how to find out about the one you are looking at.
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Where these numbers come from. Complaints are reports that owners filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), counted from NHTSA’s complaint database as of November 5, 2026. Owners do not have to prove a problem to file one, so a complaint is a report, not a confirmed defect. Models that sell in big numbers get more complaints, and newer model years have had less time on the road, so compare years of the same model rather than different models. Recalls come from NHTSA’s recall database and cover every vehicle of that model year, not one particular car. Quotes are trimmed, and anything that looks like a VIN is hidden.
- Check a specific car for open recalls at NHTSA
- Decode a VIN to see recalls, safety ratings and complaints for that exact year, make and model