Last updated: 2026-04-20

2023 Toyota Tacoma
RELIABILITY SCORE: 68/100 (GOOD)

2023 Toyota Tacoma Reliability Report

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma scores 68/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 42 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

4

Complaints

42

Complaint Rate

23.5per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$478

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,850–$3,300

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity58/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact71/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity83/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • STEERING (7)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6)
  • ENGINE (5)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Final Year

2023 is the last model year of the Third generation (N240/N260/N300/N310/N320/N330).

  • Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
  • 3 years after the last refresh (2020).
  • 3rd generation Tacoma (US).

What this means for buyers

Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.

2016: Third generation (N240/N260/N300/N310/N320/N330) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2020: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2023: This Model Year

2023 is the last model year of the Third generation (N240/N260/N300/N310/N320/N330).

Should You Buy the 2023 Toyota Tacoma?

At 68/100, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2023 is the last model year of the Third generation (N240/N260/N300/N310/N320/N330).

Its complaint rate of 23.5 per 10,000 vehicles sold runs above the Truck segment average of 10.7. The most common reports involve steering (7).

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to steering (7). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, which scored 13 points lower. See also the 2022 Toyota Tacoma for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +$70 cheaper to maintain than avg midsize trucks
  • +Infrequent unscheduled repairs

Cons

  • Moderate recall count
  • Above-average complaint rate for Truck
  • UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (7 complaints)

Compare 2023 Toyota Tacoma With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 4 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7)
  • STEERING (7)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

4

recalls on record

A moderate 4 recalls are on file for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

23.5

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 10.7

LowAvgHigh
Moderate

Safety Incidents

2

Crashes

1

Fires

4

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 4/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2023 Toyota Tacoma Recall Details

4 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

25V0400002025-01-29

STEERING, AIR BAGS

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."

Consequence

A deactivated driver's air bag will not deploy as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the spiral cable assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2025. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 25TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 25LA02.

24V1520002024-02-27

POWER TRAIN

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.

Consequence

Axle shaft separation can cause a loss of vehicle stability and brake performance, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect the rear axle assembly, tighten the axle retaining nuts as necessary, and repair or replace any damaged components, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 17, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB05 and 24TA05.

23V4800002023-07-12

STEERING, AIR BAGS

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."

Consequence

A deactivated driver's air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury during a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the spiral cable assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 8, 2023. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 23TA08. Lexus' number for this recall is 23LA02.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2023 Toyota Tacoma? Check its history first

Every 2023 Toyota Tacoma has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2023 Toyota Tacoma NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 4 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 14.7%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (-)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Optional)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Toyota TacomaRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$478

vs $548 avg for midsize trucks

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.3

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

17%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Tacoma
$478
Category Avg
$548
All Vehicles
$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

18–21 MPG

Running cost: $3,350–$3,800/yr

Fuel + repair

17–20 city / 20–24 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2023 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Tacoma 2WD 3.5L 6-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)192421$2,850
Tacoma 2WD 2.7L 4-cylRear-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)202321$2,850
Tacoma 4WD 3.5L 6-cylPart-time 4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)182220$3,000
Tacoma 4WD 2.7L 4-cylPart-time 4-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)192220$3,000
Tacoma 4WD 3.5L 6-cylPart-time 4-Wheel DriveManual 6-spd172118$3,300
Tacoma 4WD D-CAB MT TRD-ORP/PRO 3.5L 6-cylPart-time 4-Wheel DriveManual 6-spd172018$3,300

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Toyota Tacoma.

  • Inspect for engine knocking or ticking noises

  • Check for brake judder during test drive

  • Verify airbag system functionality and check for error messages

  • Test steering for vibrations at freeway speeds

  • Ensure doors hold open on inclines

  • Check passenger side windshield washer nozzle spray pattern

2023 Toyota Tacoma Common Problems by Component

42 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

7
7
6
5
5
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7)STEERING (7)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6)ENGINE (5)AIR BAGS (5)POWER TRAIN (4)VISIBILITY/WIPER (2)SERVICE BRAKES (2)Other (4)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

7 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma report several issues under the unknown or other category, with distinct patterns emerging. Multiple complaints mention sunroof explosions without external impact, which one owner describes as causing significant damage and requiring costly repairs. Another common issue involves the vehicle's doors not holding open on inclines, resulting in one reported injury when the driver-side door repeatedly slammed shut. Additionally, some owners experience the Vehicle Stability Control system engaging unexpectedly during cornering on dry pavement, which they describe as startling and potentially hazardous. These problems are typically reported within the first few months of ownership, and buyers should be aware of these potential safety implications when considering this model.

7 complaints total1 injury

STEERING

7 complaints

Owners report several steering-related issues with the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. Common complaints include steering wheel vibrations at freeway speeds, typically between 60 mph and 80 mph, which persists despite tire rebalancing and alignment adjustments. Some owners experience steering responsiveness issues during braking, with one instance noting a Pre-Collision System malfunction and reduced braking effectiveness. Additionally, oil leaks from the rack and pinion are reported, requiring replacements around 30,000 miles. Safety implications are noted in cases of unintended acceleration when turning the steering wheel at low speeds, although no crashes are reported. These issues may affect vehicle control and handling, particularly at higher speeds or during braking events.

7 complaints total

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

6 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma report several issues related to the electrical system, with the most severe involving a fire originating from the steering column, as described by a fire investigator. Other complaints frequently mention problems with soy-based wiring attracting rodents, leading to damage and costly repairs, although these incidents do not specify mileage. Additionally, owners describe malfunctioning components such as the fuel gauge inaccurately reflecting fuel levels and a heater blower motor failure resulting in toxic smoke. These issues appear at varying mileage, with one report noting problems at approximately 4,700 miles. Safety implications include the potential for fires and compromised vehicle systems due to wiring damage.

6 complaints total1 fire
ENGINE (5 complaints)

ENGINE

5 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma frequently report issues with engine noises, specifically a knocking or ticking sound, often referred to as the "taco tick." This noise is associated with problems in the valve train, timing chain, and camshafts, with some owners identifying chunks of camshaft breaking off. Complaints also mention thermostat and sensor system failures, leading to engine overheating, particularly in vehicles with high mileage, such as 70,000 miles. Additionally, some owners experience engine warning lights and vehicle jerking at low speeds, with one report occurring as early as 2,000 miles. Safety implications include the potential for engine failure, overheating, and increased risk of accidents.

5 complaints total
AIR BAGS (5 complaints)

AIR BAGS

5 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma frequently report issues with the airbag system. Common symptoms include unexpected side curtain airbag deployment without confirmed collision and airbag system error messages on the console screen. Complaints also describe airbags failing to deploy during crashes, with incidents occurring at various mileages, such as 18,844 miles. Two crashes are noted, both resulting in injuries, where airbags did not deploy as expected, leading to concerns about safety in collision scenarios. Prospective buyers should be aware of ongoing airbag system malfunctions and potential safety implications, as these issues could affect the vehicle's reliability and safety performance.

5 complaints total2 crashes3 injuries
POWER TRAIN (4 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

4 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma frequently report issues related to the power train, specifically connected to a recall identified as 24V152000. Common symptoms include abnormal noises such as loud clicking from the rear end and issues with the rear wheels seizing, which can lead to instability and swaying of the vehicle. Some owners note excessive vibration in the steering wheel when braking during turns. These problems are often observed at mileage ranges around 19,000 to 21,000 miles. Safety concerns arise as these issues can affect vehicle stability and steering control, although no crashes or warning lights are reported. Potential buyers should be aware of ongoing recall-related repairs and parts availability that may affect the resolution timeline.

4 complaints total
VISIBILITY/WIPER (2 complaints)

VISIBILITY/WIPER

2 complaints

Owners report two main issues with the 2023 Toyota Tacoma related to visibility. The first issue involves the passenger side windshield washer nozzle, which sprays mostly on the lower hood, resulting in smeared grime on the windshield and reduced visibility. This problem is noted at around 13,000 miles and is difficult for owners to adjust or replace. The second issue concerns the camera system, where owners describe the video quality as grainy, fuzzy, and jumpy, akin to viewing through a dark tunnel. Despite a head unit replacement, the issue persists, and service technicians confirm the quality is consistent with other models. These visibility problems could potentially impact driver awareness, but no reports indicate crashes or loss of control.

2 complaints total
SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma report issues with the service brakes, primarily involving brake judder and brake lockup. Some owners describe persistent juddering while braking, with one vehicle experiencing the issue since new and requiring multiple rotor resurfacings, beginning around 500 miles. Another owner reports the brakes locking up during reverse maneuvers, accompanied by multiple warning messages, and describes the brakes releasing only after repeated tapping. Both problems are noted to occur at low mileages and have led to multiple visits to dealerships without resolution. Safety implications are highlighted, as the brake lockup can be violent and may pose a risk if it occurs in traffic.

2 complaints total
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (1 complaints)

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 complaint
2025-04-19

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.

SEATS (1 complaints)

SEATS

1 complaint
2024-03-26

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)

When Do 2023 Toyota Tacoma Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

70,000 milesEngine knocking noise
19,000–21,000 milesPower train issues
500 milesBrake judder

Best & Worst Toyota Tacoma Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Toyota Tacoma Years to Buy

The best Toyota Tacoma year is 2025 with a reliability score of 70/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2021 (70/100) and 2023 (68/100).

Toyota Tacoma Years to Avoid

The worst Toyota Tacoma year is 2024 with a score of 55/100, primarily due to power train (50) issues. Also avoid 2019 (55/100).

Toyota Tacoma Reliability Score Trend

Toyota Tacoma reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 63/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Toyota Tacoma reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201855/100Mixed
201955/100Mixed
202065/100Good
202170/100Good
202267/100Good
202368/100Good
202455/100Mixed
202570/100Good

Toyota Tacoma Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202664/100 (predicted)Predicted00
202570/100+15Good433
202455/100-13Mixed4126
2023(selected)68/100+1Good442
202267/100-3Good351
202170/100+5Good069
202065/100+10Good181
201955/1000Mixed4203
201855/100Mixed3190

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2023 Toyota Tacoma reliable?
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 68/100. It is reasonably reliable with 4 recalls and 42 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Toyota Tacoma?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2023 Toyota Tacoma include: UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7 complaints), STEERING (7 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6 complaints), ENGINE (5 complaints), AIR BAGS (5 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2023 Toyota Tacoma have?
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma has 4 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2023 Toyota Tacoma expensive to maintain?
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma has estimated annual repair costs of $478/year, which is $70 less than the midsize trucks average of $548. With a reliability score of 68/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2023 Toyota Tacoma without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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.

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