2021 Toyota Tacoma Reliability Score & Common Problems

Owners report several electrical issues with the 2021 Toyota Tacoma, with a focus on malfunctioning components and potential safety risks. Complaints frequently mention electrical failures in heated seats, with burnt connections and a burning smell, and an incident where a cabin vent design flaw allows water intrusion, raising concerns about electrical fires due to wet wiring. Another common issue is the vehicle's dashboard and electronic systems, where owners describe flickering lights, radio resets, and complete power loss while driving, leading to a loss of vehicle control. Safety implications are notable, with one report of a pre-collision system malfunction causing unintended acceleration and a lack of control over brakes and gas. These issues arise at varying mileages, with some occurring as early as 8,557 miles, suggesting potential early onset of electrical system problems.

Owners of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma report several engine-related issues, with symptoms including coolant leaks, stalling, engine surges, and white smoke with a strong gas smell. A coolant bypass joint leak is noted at 47,800 miles, while stalling, particularly during cruise control on steep hills, is linked to engine misfires and potentially bad fuel, despite attempts to resolve the issue. Engine surges occur in traffic, with RPMs fluctuating from 1200 to 3500, and some owners mention an engine knocking noise. These problems raise safety concerns, particularly with stalling on highways, and typically appear early in the vehicle's life, as low as 3,000 miles. This information is pertinent for prospective buyers considering a used Tacoma from this model year.

Owners of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma report several structure-related issues. Complaints frequently mention frame paint peeling off and severe rusting and corrosion on the subframe, with one owner noting cracks in the frame welds at just 500 miles. Another common issue involves doors that do not close properly unless forcefully shut. One complaint involves a crash resulting from an external impact to the door frame and rear door, but no structural failure is indicated as a cause. These issues suggest potential concerns for buyers considering used models, particularly regarding frame integrity and door functionality.

Owners of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma report issues with the forward collision avoidance system, particularly with the auto emergency braking feature. Complaints frequently mention the system activating unexpectedly, causing the vehicle to brake harshly and skid, particularly when cruise control is engaged, as described by one owner experiencing this six times on highways. Another owner reports a failure of the pre-collision safety system to warn or assist during a front-end collision, despite being set to the most sensitive setting, resulting in a $7,000 repair. These issues occur at varied mileages, with one report noting 13,000 miles. Safety implications include a documented crash and instances of loss of control, such as skidding into another lane or off-road.

Owners of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma report issues related to the fuel system, primarily involving the fuel pump. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as stalling at highway speeds, extended cranking during cold starts, and unusual noises from the fuel pump. These issues are noted at various mileage points, with reports at approximately 24,000, 62,000, and 75,000 miles. One report describes a safety-related incident where the vehicle stalled on the highway, although no crashes or fires are reported. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential fuel system problems, particularly at higher mileages.

Owners of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma report issues related to steering, particularly involving power steering fluid leaks and steering rack failures. One complaint describes a complete loss of power steering functionality due to an empty power steering fluid reservoir, with fluid visibly leaking from the rubber boots on the steering rack, occurring around 47,000 miles. Another owner references a Toyota service bulletin about vibrations felt in the steering, seat, and floorboard, though this is linked to a power train issue more common in 4-wheel drive models. These issues suggest potential safety implications, such as loss of steering control, particularly if the vehicle is driven without addressing the fluid leaks. Buyers considering a used Tacoma should inspect the steering system for leaks or unusual vibrations, especially in vehicles approaching or exceeding 47,000 miles.

Owners of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma report issues related to unintended acceleration and inconsistent throttle response. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle accelerating without input from the driver, even when the brake is applied, potentially leading to dangerous situations such as approaching stopped traffic at red lights. One owner describes the engine throttle going into wide open throttle, causing the vehicle to speed up rapidly, while another reports the truck failing to respond to the accelerator pedal being pressed. These issues are noted without specific mileage mentioned, and no warning lights or messages appear during these incidents. Buyers should be aware of these potential safety implications, including the risk of loss of control.