Last updated: 2026-05-15

Rivian R1t vs Toyota Tundra: Reliability Compared

Rivian R1t reliability comparison

Rivian R1t

66
GoodReliability score: 66 out of 100, rated Good
VS
More ReliableToyota Tundra reliability comparison

Toyota Tundra

68
GoodReliability score: 68 out of 100, rated Good

Choosing between the Rivian R1t and the Toyota Tundra? This page compares their reliability scores, NHTSA recall history, owner-reported complaints, and estimated annual repair costs so you can make a confident long-term ownership decision between these two full-size trucks.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Toyota Tundra currently leads with an average score of 68/100 compared to 66/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

How Do the Rivian R1t and Toyota Tundra Generations Compare?

As of 2026, the Toyota Tundra is in its third generation (XK70), which debuted in 2022. This generation is still relatively new, suggesting it might experience typical first-year issues as Toyota works to refine its platform. In contrast, the Rivian R1T is currently in its second generation, introduced in 2024. This rapid transition from its first generation, which began in 2022, indicates Rivian's effort to address early model challenges quickly. Generally, mature platforms like the Tundra's previous generations have demonstrated reliability due to their refinement over time, whereas newer platforms such as the R1T's may initially encounter more teething issues.

Verdict

The Toyota Tundra is more reliable than the Rivian R1t, scoring 68/100 vs 66/100.

The Toyota Tundra and Rivian R1t both exhibit similar reliability scores, with the Tundra at 68/100 and the R1t at 66/100. However, the Tundra has a higher recall count over nine years, totaling 90, compared to the R1t's 21 recalls in just three years. The R1t fares slightly better in owner complaints, with 10 per 10,000 sold versus the Tundra's 11.9, but it lacks available data on repair costs. The Tundra's lower estimated annual repair cost of $606 may appeal to those prioritizing predictable maintenance expenses, making it a more established choice for reliability despite its broader range of common issues.

Key Differences

  1. 1Rivian R1t has 69 fewer total recalls
  2. 2Toyota Tundra scores 2 points higher in reliability
  3. 3Rivian R1t has 1.9 fewer complaints per 10k sold

Category Scoreboard

2Rivian R1t
—
1Toyota Tundra
Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Rivian R1t vs Toyota Tundra: Which Is More Reliable?

Rivian R1t vs Toyota Tundra at-a-glance reliability comparison
MetricRivian R1tToyota Tundra
Reliability Score66/10068/100
Years Tracked39
Total Recalls2190
Complaints per 10k Sold1011.9
Year Wins21

What Are the Common Problems With the Rivian R1t and Toyota Tundra?

The Toyota Tundra has a significantly higher volume of complaints compared to the Rivian R1t, with notable issues in the power train (240 complaints), engine (215 complaints), and electrical system (118 complaints), some of which are crash-linked. The Rivian R1t, while having fewer overall complaints, shows a concentration in air bag issues (14 complaints) and has a concerning number of crash-linked complaints in service brakes (2 complaints). Both vehicles have reported problems with their power trains and electrical systems, but the Tundra's issues in these areas are more prevalent and linked to crashes. The Rivian R1t's fewer complaints might be attributed to its newer market presence, yet the crash-linked service brake complaints warrant attention.

Rivian R1t vs Toyota Tundra common problem areas comparison
ComponentRivian R1tToyota Tundra
AIR BAGS2.8Low0.1Very Low
POWER TRAIN0.6Very Low2.3Low
ENGINE—None2Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM0.8Very Low1.1Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER0.8Very Low0.9Very Low
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL0.4Very Low0.7Very Low
SERVICE BRAKES0.4Very Low0.7Very Low
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM—None0.9Very Low
STEERING0.4Very Low0.3Very Low
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING—None0.7Very Low
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE0.4Very Low0.1Very Low
FUEL SYSTEM—None0.2Very Low
SEATS—None0.1Very Low
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)—None0.1Very Low
SUSPENSION—None—None
STRUCTURE—None—None
VISIBILITY/WIPER—None—None
EXTERIOR LIGHTING—None—None
LANE DEPARTURE—None—None

Complaints per 10,000 units sold, aggregated across all tracked model years from NHTSA owner reports.

Which Is Cheaper to Maintain: Rivian R1t or Toyota Tundra?

The Toyota Tundra has an annual repair cost of $606, with drivers visiting the repair shop about once every three years and an 18% chance of facing a major repair. While specific data for the Rivian R1T isn't available, electric vehicles like the R1T typically have fewer moving parts, potentially leading to lower maintenance frequency and costs. However, the lack of historical data makes it challenging to predict major repair risks for the Rivian. For cost-conscious buyers, the Tundra presents a known and moderate risk profile with predictable costs, making it a safer bet for those prioritizing budget certainty over the potential benefits of owning an electric vehicle.

How Does Rivian R1t vs Toyota Tundra Reliability Compare by Year?

Rivian R1t vs Toyota Tundra year-by-year reliability scores
YearRivian R1tToyota TundraEdge
202565/1008R / 8C73/1006R / 88CToyota Tundra
202467/1006R / 7C65/10014R / 235CRivian R1t
202365/1007R / 35C59/10022R / 321CRivian R1t

Best years to cross-shop: The 2024 Rivian R1t scored 67/100 and the 2025 Toyota Tundra scored 73/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Rivian R1t vs the Toyota Tundra?

If you prioritize reliability and predictable maintenance costs, the Toyota Tundra is a solid choice. With a reliability score of 68 and an estimated annual repair cost of $606, it offers a clear picture of what to expect financially. Although it has a higher number of recalls at 90, the Tundra's repair frequency of 0.3 times per year and owner complaints of 11.9 per 10,000 sold suggest consistent performance. However, be aware of its top issues with the power train and engine systems. On the other hand, if you're excited about innovative technology and are willing to embrace some uncertainties, the Rivian R1T might appeal to you. Despite its slightly lower reliability score of 66, it has significantly fewer recalls at 21 and fewer owner complaints at 10 per 10,000 sold. While specific repair costs and risks aren't available, this electric truck is ideal for those who value cutting-edge features and are less concerned about traditional reliability metrics.

Rivian R1t vs Toyota Tundra: Common Questions

Is the Rivian R1t more reliable than the Toyota Tundra?
Based on our data, the Toyota Tundra is more reliable with an average score of 68/100 compared to 66/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.
Which has more recalls, the Rivian R1t or the Toyota Tundra?
The Toyota Tundra has more recalls (90) compared to the Rivian R1t (21). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.
Which has fewer owner complaints, the Rivian R1t or the Toyota Tundra?
Adjusted for sales volume, the Rivian R1t has a lower complaint rate at 10 per 10,000 vehicles sold versus 11.9 for the Toyota Tundra. Normalizing by sales gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Related Reliability Comparisons

Decided between Rivian R1t and Toyota Tundra? Run a VIN check before you buy — uncover hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

See incorrect data? Report an issue