Last updated: 2026-03-04
2021 Toyota Tundra Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2021 Toyota Tundra scores 75/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 23 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2021 is the last model year of the Second generation (XK50).
Recalls
3
Complaints
23
Complaint Rate
2.8
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$606
Below avgMajor Repair Risk
18%
NHTSA Rating
4/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
3 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is the last model year of the Second generation (XK50).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 7 years after the last refresh (2014).
- 2nd generation Tundra (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.
Second generation (XK50)
Should You Buy the 2021 Toyota Tundra?
The 2021 Toyota Tundra scores 75/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2021 is the last model year of the Second generation (XK50).
With 23 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to electrical system (4). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2022 Toyota Tundra, which scored 18 points lower. See also the 2020 Toyota Tundra for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- $330 cheaper to maintain than avg fullsize trucks
- Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- Below-average complaint rate for Truck
Cons
- Moderate recall count
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Owners of the 2021 Toyota Tundra report several issues related to the... (4 complaints)
- SEATS: Lateral movement and excessive play (4 complaints)
Compare 2021 Toyota Tundra With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 3 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- SEATS (4)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (3)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2)
- STEERING (2)
- ENGINE (1)
- AIR BAGS (1)
- POWER TRAIN (1)
- STRUCTURE (1)
- FUEL SYSTEM (1)
Recall Overview
3
recalls on record
The 2021 Toyota Tundra has 3 recalls on record. This is a moderate number. Each recall represents a safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
2.8
per 10k soldSegment avg: 15.6
Safety Incidents
Crashes
1
Fires
1
Injuries
1
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Toyota Tundra Recall Details
3 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Toyota Tundra. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
STEERING
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain JTEKT power steering gear assembly service parts for 2007-2021 Tundra and 2008-2022 Sequoia, part numbers 44250-0C160, 44250-0C131, 44250-0C170, and 11250-0C121. The power steering gear assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in an oil leak.
Consequence
An oil leak may cause a sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the power steering gear assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 17, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 21TH01.
STEERING
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2022 Sequoia and 2007-2021 Tundra vehicles. The power steering gear assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in an oil leak.
Consequence
An oil leak may cause a sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the power steering gear assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 21, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 21TB10 and 21TA10.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Tundra vehicles. The headlight electrical circuits may power the high and low beams simultaneously, which could overheat the electrical connector.
Consequence
An overheated electrical connector can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will modify the engine wire harness assembly and replace any damaged bulb, bulb connector, and/or headlight assembly as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 25, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 21TB06 and 21TA06.
2021 Toyota Tundra NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 21.9%
Safety Technologies
Toyota Tundra Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$606
vs $936 avg for fullsize trucks
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
18%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2021 Toyota Tundra
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Inspect power steering for responsiveness and check for recall completion
- Test driver's seat for excessive movement during braking and acceleration
- Check combination meter display for blanking issues
- Verify proper operation of wipers and inspect windshield for chips or cracks
- Ensure LED lights are secure and not flickering on TRD PRO models
- Test adaptive cruise control and confirm brake lights illuminate during operation
Check Any 2021 Toyota Tundra's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2021 Tundra in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Toyota Tundra with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2021 Toyota Tundra Common Problems by Component
23 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
SEATS
4 complaintsOwners report issues with the driver's seat in the 2021 Toyota Tundra, primarily involving lateral movement and excessive play. Complaints frequently mention the seat shifting back and forth during braking or acceleration, with some owners describing a rocking motion when stopping or starting. These issues are noted shortly after purchase and persist despite multiple dealer visits, with some owners experiencing delays in receiving replacement parts. There are concerns about the seat's stability in the event of an accident, although no actual incidents are reported. Buyers should be aware of these seat movement issues, particularly if considering a vehicle with similar symptoms.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Toyota Tundra report several issues related to the electrical system. Commonly mentioned problems include the combination meter's electronic control instrument panel LCD display going blank, which persists despite multiple dealership visits. Another reported issue involves the radio and A/C failing to activate unless the key is jiggled or the vehicle is restarted, with symptoms occurring intermittently. Additionally, TRD PRO models experience loose and flashing LED lights that can pose a safety risk. A serious incident involves a fire originating in the dashboard, leading to significant damage without prior warning signs. These issues have been observed across various timelines, with some owners experiencing them soon after purchase.
VISIBILITY/WIPER
3 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Toyota Tundra report issues with the vehicle's wiper system and windshield durability. Complaints frequently mention the driver-side wiper arm malfunctioning, either stopping completely or failing to work while the passenger side remains operational. One owner describes a wiper arm that stripped out due to snow accumulation, and another notes a driver-side wiper failure without prior warning. Additionally, windshield fragility is a concern, with one owner experiencing a small chip that expanded into a full-length horizontal crack after minor impact, suggesting potential material vulnerability. These issues emerge early in the vehicle's life, with one report occurring within six months of ownership, highlighting potential safety implications during adverse weather conditions due to impaired visibility.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Toyota Tundra report issues primarily related to the vehicle's sunroof and air conditioning system. One owner describes an incident where the moonroof unexpectedly exploded while driving, posing potential safety risks due to sudden exposure to the elements. Another complaint highlights a design concern with the air conditioning system, specifically the absence of a visible drain for condensed water, which reportedly leads to electrical issues due to water accumulation. These issues appear to occur early in the vehicle's life, as indicated by the mention of a "brand new" purchase. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly regarding the sunroof's structural integrity and the air conditioning system's drainage design.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Toyota Tundra report issues with the forward collision avoidance system, specifically with erroneous activation of the pre-collision warning. One owner notes this occurs frequently, over ten times, on the same section of roadway without any apparent hazards such as vehicles, pedestrians, or animals present. Another complaint highlights a problem with the adaptive cruise control system, where the vehicle slows down independently without illuminating the rear brake lights, posing a potential safety risk by not signaling to drivers behind. This issue is reported at approximately 3,000 miles. These complaints suggest potential safety implications, particularly regarding the risk of rear-end collisions due to unlit brake lights during adaptive cruise control operation.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Toyota Tundra report issues related to the power steering system, particularly noting failures around 38,000 miles. Symptoms include the complete failure of the power steering, necessitating a costly replacement of the entire assembly. Additionally, some owners mention receiving recall notifications for steering-related issues, but parts for the repair are not yet available, leading to delays. While no incidents of crashes or loss of control are reported, the power steering failure could potentially impact vehicle handling. These issues may be relevant for used car buyers considering the availability and cost of repairs.
ENGINE (1 complaints)
ENGINE
1 complaintWere were driving, my 2021 Toyota Tundra, just stopped running. No check engine lights had come on until the engine stalled as we coasted to a stop on the side of the road. We had it towed to the Central Maine Motor in Waterville, Maine 04901. Central Maine Motor -Toyota service just got my truck in to a service bay today 1/29/26 and in formed me the failure was due to the fuel pressure module and a fuel pump failure. Toyota has other years of vehicles that they have issues recalls for and my truck has the same fuel system and fuel pump as in those year vehicles, but no recalls for my truck, a 2021 Toyota Tundra built in Sept/Oct of 2020. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintSafety-relatedAirbag , it was bad accident on freeway , but my car airbag did not work.car did not inspect with dealer , they were not any waring sign
POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2021 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle briefly hesitated and jolted, prompting the contact to discontinue driving the vehicle. The transmission warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the transmission. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 48,000.
STRUCTURE (1 complaints)
STRUCTURE
1 complaintMy sunroof exploded due to weather conditions while i was driving with my family on highway during heavy rain storm
When Do 2021 Toyota Tundra Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Toyota Tundra Years
Best Toyota Tundra Years to Buy
The best Toyota Tundra year is 2021 with a reliability score of 75/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2020 (74/100) and 2025 (73/100).
2021(this page)
3 recalls · 23 complaints
2020
5 recalls · 42 complaints
2025
6 recalls · 88 complaints
Toyota Tundra Years to Avoid
The worst Toyota Tundra year is 2022 with a score of 57/100, primarily due to power train (90) issues.
See full Toyota Tundra years-to-avoid analysis →Toyota Tundra Reliability Score Trend
Toyota Tundra reliability has declined in recent years, with newer models averaging 64/100 compared to 72/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 57/100 | Mixed |
| 2023 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2024 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 73/100 | Good |
Toyota Tundra Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Toyota Tundra reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Toyota Tundra?
How many recalls does the 2021 Toyota Tundra have?
Is the 2021 Toyota Tundra expensive to maintain?
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
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.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
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.
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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