Owners have filed 73 complaints
about the 2023 Toyota Tacoma with NHTSA between 2023 and 2026.
The largest single group is the electrical system.
Across this model's run it ranks 22 of 32 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 11
Against the median year of the Toyota Tacoma. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 99
19.2% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
82% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
317.6%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
211.8%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
529.4%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
741.2%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Side pole crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2023 Toyota TACOMA PU/CC 4WD
19.1% risk
2023 Toyota TACOMA PU/CC 2WD
14.7% risk
2023 Toyota TACOMA PU/EC 4WD
19.1% risk
2023 Toyota TACOMA PU/EC 2WD
14.7% risk
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Apr 2023peak 6Aug 2026
Recalls on the 2023 Toyota Tacoma
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
25V040000
STEERING:COLUMN
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."
Risk: A deactivated driver's air bag will not deploy as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
24V152000
POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
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.
Risk: Axle shaft separation can cause a loss of vehicle stability and brake performance, increasing the risk of a crash.
23V480000
STEERING:COLUMN
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."
Risk: A deactivated driver's air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of injury during a crash.
22V520000
CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE LATCH ANCHOR
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."
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.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 20252427,441 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: On certain vehicles, the steering wheel spiral cable assembly could disconnect. If this happens, the airbag (SRS) warning lamp would turn on, and the driver-front airbag wouldn't work in a crash. This may also cause the horn or other steering wheel-mounted controls not to work properly. Note: This recall replaces Transport Canada recall no. 2023-386. Vehicles that were repaired under that recall don't require this repair. Safety Risk: An airbag that doesn't work properly could increase the risk of injury in a crash. Corrective Actions: Toyota will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect the production date of the spiral cable assembly, and replace it if necessary.
Recall 202503731 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: On certain vehicles, the inspection completed by a Toyota dealer during recall SRC RF2 (Transport Canada recall no. 2023-386) may not have been done correctly. As a result, a second inspection is required. On certain vehicles, the steering wheel spiral cable assembly could disconnect. If this happens, the airbag (SRS) warning lamp would turn on, and the driver-front airbag wouldn't work in a crash. This may also cause the horn or other steering wheel-mounted controls not to work properly. Safety Risk: An airbag that doesn't work properly could increase the risk of injury in a crash. Corrective Actions: Toyota will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect the production date of the spiral cable assembly, and replace it if necessary.
Recall 20241663 units in Canada
Label
Issue: On a small number of trucks, the information on the tire and loading information label may be incorrect. This could lead you to overload the vehicle, inflate the tires incorrectly, and/or use the wrong rims and tires. This could lead to poor handling and/or a tire failure. Safety Risk: Poor handling or a tire failure could cause a loss of control and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Toyota will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your truck to a dealership to inspect and, if necessary, replace the tire and loading information label.
Recall 202412721,035 units in Canada
Powertrain
Issue: On certain trucks, the axle housing(s) may not have been manufactured properly. As a result, the axle retaining nuts could loosen and detach. If this happens, the axle shaft(s) could separate from the axle housing(s). This could cause reduced braking and/or reduced vehicle stability. Note: This problem could cause noise, vibration and/or a differential oil leak. Safety Risk: Reduced braking can cause extended stopping distances. Reduced vehicle stability could cause a loss of control. Both issues could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: Toyota will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your truck to a dealership to inspect the rear axle assembly and retighten the axle retaining nuts. If weld spatter is found, it will be removed. Any damaged axle components will be repaired or replaced, as necessary.
Recall 20233867,018 units in Canada
Airbag
This recall was replaced by Transport Canada recall no. 2025-242. Issue: On certain vehicles, the steering wheel spiral cable assembly could disconnect. If this happens, the airbag (SRS) warning lamp would turn on, and the driver-front airbag wouldn't work in a crash. This may also cause the horn or other steering wheel-mounted controls not to work properly. Safety Risk: An airbag that doesn't work properly could increase the risk of injury in a crash. Corrective Actions: Toyota will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to inspect the production date of the spiral cable assembly, and replace it if necessary.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Lucerne Valley, CACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
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 applied the brakes as hard as I could, but did not swerve due to fear of rolling into the opposite direction of traffic. His back driver side came into my front passenger side at the immediate collision and then we flipped onto the driver side and slid for quite a few feet. Only the airbags on the doors/windows deployed. There was very little reaction time to apply the brakes due to the speed and closeness of the Honda coming into our lane. The airbags in the front console would have protected us from the whiplash we received.
NHTSA complaint #11747822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Desoto, TXCrash
AIR BAGS
Air Bags (Driver and Passenger Curtain Airbags) no other airbags deployed. Been in repair since 3/8/26. Currently 4/21/26. Insurance already sent Body Shop money. Parts on National Backorder and Manufacturer Switch has not been determined yet by Toyota. Truck will not be released back to me until the repair is completed per email. I need adequate transportation provided to continue going to and from work. My insurance has maxed its coverage and cannot extend. I should not be out of pocket more than I already am while waiting on a part that is not in my control. Accident: I hydroplaned and ended in a ditch after going over a T-Intersection. Air bags went off and vehicle was drivable after. Submitted a claim to insurance and here we are.
NHTSA complaint #11732718 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Desoto, TXCrash
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Air Bags (Driver and Passenger Curtain Airbags) no other airbags deployed. Been in repair since 3/8/26. Currently 4/21/26. Insurance already sent Body Shop money. Parts on National Backorder and Manufacturer Switch has not been determined yet by Toyota. Truck will not be released back to me until the repair is completed per email. I need adequate transportation provided to continue going to and from work. My insurance has maxed its coverage and cannot extend. I should not be out of pocket more than I already am while waiting on a part that is not in my control. Accident: I hydroplaned and ended in a ditch after going over a T-Intersection. Air bags went off and vehicle was drivable after. Submitted a claim to insurance and here we are.
NHTSA complaint #11732718 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Harker Heights, TXCrash
AIR BAGS
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 was put at risk as none of my airbags deployed. It was not inspected by my insurance company and was taken to an automotive shop to be repaired. No prior warning systems were enacted,
NHTSA complaint #11728415 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fresno, CA1 injured
AIR BAGS
On November 14, 2025, at approximately 0200 hours, in Fresno, California, I was driving southbound on Highway 99 at approximately 70 mph using cruise control. It was raining heavily at the time, and visibility was significantly reduced. I was traveling in the middle lane when I suddenly felt what I believed to be an impact on the driver side of my vehicle. Due to the weather conditions, I was unable to visually identify what struck the vehicle. Immediately prior to this event, I noticed faint headlights in lane 1 (fast lane), but I could not determine whether that vehicle made contact with mine. At the moment of the perceived impact, the side curtain airbags deployed unexpectedly. I initially thought the deployment was a collision with another vehicle because the force felt like a physical impact. Once the curtain airbags deployed, I immediately lost control of the vehicle. Steering became impossible, and the vehicle veered off the roadway, ultimately coming to a stop on an embankment adjacent to the highway. California Highway Patrol officers responded to the scene, took my statement, and inspected the vehicle. They reported no exterior body damage consistent with a collision. The following day, I visited the tow yard and conducted a daylight inspection of the vehicle, confirming that there was no visible impact damage on the body panels or exterior surfaces. After the on-scene investigation, the vehicle was towed, and the responding officer provided me with a courtesy ride. As a result of the incident, I sustained minor injuries, including whiplash, road rash on my left shoulder and upper forearm, and soreness in my neck. This event involved unexpected deployment of side curtain airbags without any confirmed collision, leading to loss of vehicle control, roadway departure, and driver injury. I am submitting this complaint for investigation into potential airbag or sensor malfunction.
NHTSA complaint #11699687 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Edmond, OKFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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 in color, and they observed fire emanating from the steering column. I am the Lead Fire Investigator on this incident for the Edmond Fire Department. The electrical components in the area observed with fire contained electrical arc sites and melting. No other accidental heat sources were present, and natural causes and human involvement were ruled out as well. Incident number is [XXX] in Edmond, OK. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11661898 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Westlake Village, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
On XXX I was driving on [XXX] at about 70mph, when the rear drivers side window on a 2023 Toyota tacoma crew cab shattered suddenly. If someone had been sitting in the backseat when this occurred they could have been injured. The door panel itself was damaged from the tiny shards of glass. It was a dangerous situation as glass was most likely showering the vehicles behind me as this occurred. This vehicle only had 22,200 miles on it at the time and was a stock vehicle. No modifications were added. I had all the windows closed and the AC and recirculating air was on at 2 bars. It was about 8:30 at night when this happened. When I was able to get off the freeway and look at what happened, the glass was totally gone from the window. There was lots of glass on the door panel & well below that, a little behind the drivers seat on the floor close to the window and a little behind where the seat leaves a gap (when the seat is folded down), close to the window that blew out. There was no glass further into the vehicle, which if something had hit the window from outside, I would think the glass would have been further inside. I found more small glass pieces in the bed of my truck (6’ bed). This was a very scary situation and I didn’t do anything to cause it. A more high strung person might have reacted badly to this sudden boom and caused an accident at high speed on the highway. I have heard that similar things have happened to other drivers of certain models of toyota from 2020 - 2026. The vehicle is still under warranty and I took it to Toyota but they refused to repair it under the warranty. I am taking it to a repair shop tomorrow to get an estimate for my insurance. There was no warning prior to this occurring. It was a shock. A child in a rear seat in this situation could have sustained injury. The door panel had slices in it and the fabric is torn. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11757530 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 15,000 milesWalnut Ridge, AR
POWER TRAIN
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 turning the steering wheel. While driving in the left lane with another vehicle in the right lane, the vehicle stopped suddenly. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, and the failure was associated with the gear shaft. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.
NHTSA complaint #11755950 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 15,000 milesWalnut Ridge, AR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
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 turning the steering wheel. While driving in the left lane with another vehicle in the right lane, the vehicle stopped suddenly. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, and the failure was associated with the gear shaft. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.
NHTSA complaint #11755950 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 43,000 milesPearl River, LA
STEERING
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 message “Pull Over – Do Not Drive” was displayed before the vehicle lost automotive power. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and was towed back to the dealer. The vehicle was inspected; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the battery and alternator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 43,000.
NHTSA complaint #11754727 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 43,000 milesPearl River, LA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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 message “Pull Over – Do Not Drive” was displayed before the vehicle lost automotive power. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and was towed back to the dealer. The vehicle was inspected; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the battery and alternator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 43,000.
NHTSA complaint #11754727 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 43,000 milesPearl River, LA
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
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 message “Pull Over – Do Not Drive” was displayed before the vehicle lost automotive power. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and was towed back to the dealer. The vehicle was inspected; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the battery and alternator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 43,000.
NHTSA complaint #11754727 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Eagle, ID
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Headlight tabs break causing housing to rub against body and crack. Additionally it makes headlights move which necessitates constant readjustment.
NHTSA complaint #11750712 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lucerne Valley, CACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
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 applied the brakes as hard as I could, but did not swerve due to fear of rolling into the opposite direction of traffic. His back driver side came into my front passenger side at the immediate collision and then we flipped onto the driver side and slid for quite a few feet. Only the airbags on the doors/windows deployed. There was very little reaction time to apply the brakes due to the speed and closeness of the Honda coming into our lane. The airbags in the front console would have protected us from the whiplash we received.
NHTSA complaint #11747822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Gig Harbor, WA
STEERING
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 appeared to be holding fluid, due to signs of moisture on the exterior of the boots. Vehicle was taken to the dealership where purchased. Vehicle was purchased November 2022 and now has approximately 52,000 miles). The dealership service department determined the steering rack seals failed and power steering fluid was dripping into the tie rod boots. Vehicle was out of the 3 year / 36,000 mile warranty and this known issue is not covered by the power train warranty, so 100% of the cost to repair falls upon the owner. Dealer stated that this is a known issue but could not state why a recall was never initiated to alleviate the issue and prevent this costly repair from falling upon the vehicle owners. If not repaired the issue could cause sudden, dramatic increases in steering effort and total loss of vehicle control. Low fluid can also damage internal pump components if not caught early enough.
NHTSA complaint #11744147 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Desoto, TXCrash
AIR BAGS
Air Bags (Driver and Passenger Curtain Airbags) no other airbags deployed. Been in repair since 3/8/26. Currently 4/21/26. Insurance already sent Body Shop money. Parts on National Backorder and Manufacturer Switch has not been determined yet by Toyota. Truck will not be released back to me until the repair is completed per email. I need adequate transportation provided to continue going to and from work. My insurance has maxed its coverage and cannot extend. I should not be out of pocket more than I already am while waiting on a part that is not in my control. Accident: I hydroplaned and ended in a ditch after going over a T-Intersection. Air bags went off and vehicle was drivable after. Submitted a claim to insurance and here we are.
NHTSA complaint #11732718 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Desoto, TXCrash
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Air Bags (Driver and Passenger Curtain Airbags) no other airbags deployed. Been in repair since 3/8/26. Currently 4/21/26. Insurance already sent Body Shop money. Parts on National Backorder and Manufacturer Switch has not been determined yet by Toyota. Truck will not be released back to me until the repair is completed per email. I need adequate transportation provided to continue going to and from work. My insurance has maxed its coverage and cannot extend. I should not be out of pocket more than I already am while waiting on a part that is not in my control. Accident: I hydroplaned and ended in a ditch after going over a T-Intersection. Air bags went off and vehicle was drivable after. Submitted a claim to insurance and here we are.
NHTSA complaint #11732718 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Harker Heights, TXCrash
AIR BAGS
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 was put at risk as none of my airbags deployed. It was not inspected by my insurance company and was taken to an automotive shop to be repaired. No prior warning systems were enacted,
NHTSA complaint #11728415 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lakewood, OH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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 driving. Vehicle needed to be towed again to the dealership.
NHTSA complaint #11722923 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lakewood, OH
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
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 driving. Vehicle needed to be towed again to the dealership.
NHTSA complaint #11722923 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sacramento, CA
ENGINE
Oil cap went loosed and fell off after a few hundred miles of driving. This is a very common thing in 2023 Toyota tacoma.
NHTSA complaint #11721783 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Brandon, FL
ENGINE
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 warranty or power train warranty they wait until it becomes the consumers problem
NHTSA complaint #11710839 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Goodyear, AZ
STEERING
On June 20, 2025, my 2023 Toyota Tacoma (VIN [XXX] ed a sudden loss of effective braking during normal driving conditions (dry roadway, clear weather). The vehicle was being driven by my adult son. While slowing for a turn, the instrument cluster displayed a Pre-Collision System (PCS) malfunction warning and a Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) warning. The Driver applied the brake pedal continuously, but the vehicle did no decelerate as expected. ABS did not activate, and braking effectiveness was insufficient. During braking, the driver experienced reduced steering responsiveness. In order to avoid entering a busy roadway without adequate braking capability, the driver applied maximum steering input, fully loading the left side of the steering wheel with as much force as possible in an attempt to redirect the vehicle. Any reduction in speed occurred primarily due to the change in direction and tire to road friction, not effective braking. The vehicle was towed to a Toyota dealership. Dealer intake records document a PCS warning and no brakes upon arrival. Event Data Recorder (EDR/CDR) data shows continuous brake pedal application for approximately 5 seconds prior to the event, accelerator at 0%, and brake system hydraulic pressure reaching approximately 12.14 MPa (maximum recorded). Despite this, the vehicle did not stop as expected. No frontal crash pulse recorded. Toyota Motor North America later denied responsibility, asserting incorrect vehicle speed and stating that a CARFAX report indicated prior front-end damage. The CARFAX vehicle history report, dealer purchase disclosures, and service records show no reported accidents or damage. Toyota declined to provide brake system ECU logs (ABS/VSC/brake control modules). This incident raises concerns regarding a potential safety defect involving electronically controlled braking and its interaction with PCS stability control systems. Supporting documentation available. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5
NHTSA complaint #11705080 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Goodyear, AZ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
On June 20, 2025, my 2023 Toyota Tacoma (VIN [XXX] ed a sudden loss of effective braking during normal driving conditions (dry roadway, clear weather). The vehicle was being driven by my adult son. While slowing for a turn, the instrument cluster displayed a Pre-Collision System (PCS) malfunction warning and a Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) warning. The Driver applied the brake pedal continuously, but the vehicle did no decelerate as expected. ABS did not activate, and braking effectiveness was insufficient. During braking, the driver experienced reduced steering responsiveness. In order to avoid entering a busy roadway without adequate braking capability, the driver applied maximum steering input, fully loading the left side of the steering wheel with as much force as possible in an attempt to redirect the vehicle. Any reduction in speed occurred primarily due to the change in direction and tire to road friction, not effective braking. The vehicle was towed to a Toyota dealership. Dealer intake records document a PCS warning and no brakes upon arrival. Event Data Recorder (EDR/CDR) data shows continuous brake pedal application for approximately 5 seconds prior to the event, accelerator at 0%, and brake system hydraulic pressure reaching approximately 12.14 MPa (maximum recorded). Despite this, the vehicle did not stop as expected. No frontal crash pulse recorded. Toyota Motor North America later denied responsibility, asserting incorrect vehicle speed and stating that a CARFAX report indicated prior front-end damage. The CARFAX vehicle history report, dealer purchase disclosures, and service records show no reported accidents or damage. Toyota declined to provide brake system ECU logs (ABS/VSC/brake control modules). This incident raises concerns regarding a potential safety defect involving electronically controlled braking and its interaction with PCS stability control systems. Supporting documentation available. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5
NHTSA complaint #11705080 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Goodyear, AZ
SERVICE BRAKES
On June 20, 2025, my 2023 Toyota Tacoma (VIN [XXX] ed a sudden loss of effective braking during normal driving conditions (dry roadway, clear weather). The vehicle was being driven by my adult son. While slowing for a turn, the instrument cluster displayed a Pre-Collision System (PCS) malfunction warning and a Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) warning. The Driver applied the brake pedal continuously, but the vehicle did no decelerate as expected. ABS did not activate, and braking effectiveness was insufficient. During braking, the driver experienced reduced steering responsiveness. In order to avoid entering a busy roadway without adequate braking capability, the driver applied maximum steering input, fully loading the left side of the steering wheel with as much force as possible in an attempt to redirect the vehicle. Any reduction in speed occurred primarily due to the change in direction and tire to road friction, not effective braking. The vehicle was towed to a Toyota dealership. Dealer intake records document a PCS warning and no brakes upon arrival. Event Data Recorder (EDR/CDR) data shows continuous brake pedal application for approximately 5 seconds prior to the event, accelerator at 0%, and brake system hydraulic pressure reaching approximately 12.14 MPa (maximum recorded). Despite this, the vehicle did not stop as expected. No frontal crash pulse recorded. Toyota Motor North America later denied responsibility, asserting incorrect vehicle speed and stating that a CARFAX report indicated prior front-end damage. The CARFAX vehicle history report, dealer purchase disclosures, and service records show no reported accidents or damage. Toyota declined to provide brake system ECU logs (ABS/VSC/brake control modules). This incident raises concerns regarding a potential safety defect involving electronically controlled braking and its interaction with PCS stability control systems. Supporting documentation available. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5
NHTSA complaint #11705080 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 21,303 milesPlainfield, NJ
POWER TRAIN
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 vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, where the nuts and bolts were replaced. The contact stated that the torque spec was incorrect. The dealer provided a video of the work order for the repair. The dealer informed the contact that rust could develop on the nuts. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 21,303.
NHTSA complaint #11703876 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fresno, CA1 injured
AIR BAGS
On November 14, 2025, at approximately 0200 hours, in Fresno, California, I was driving southbound on Highway 99 at approximately 70 mph using cruise control. It was raining heavily at the time, and visibility was significantly reduced. I was traveling in the middle lane when I suddenly felt what I believed to be an impact on the driver side of my vehicle. Due to the weather conditions, I was unable to visually identify what struck the vehicle. Immediately prior to this event, I noticed faint headlights in lane 1 (fast lane), but I could not determine whether that vehicle made contact with mine. At the moment of the perceived impact, the side curtain airbags deployed unexpectedly. I initially thought the deployment was a collision with another vehicle because the force felt like a physical impact. Once the curtain airbags deployed, I immediately lost control of the vehicle. Steering became impossible, and the vehicle veered off the roadway, ultimately coming to a stop on an embankment adjacent to the highway. California Highway Patrol officers responded to the scene, took my statement, and inspected the vehicle. They reported no exterior body damage consistent with a collision. The following day, I visited the tow yard and conducted a daylight inspection of the vehicle, confirming that there was no visible impact damage on the body panels or exterior surfaces. After the on-scene investigation, the vehicle was towed, and the responding officer provided me with a courtesy ride. As a result of the incident, I sustained minor injuries, including whiplash, road rash on my left shoulder and upper forearm, and soreness in my neck. This event involved unexpected deployment of side curtain airbags without any confirmed collision, leading to loss of vehicle control, roadway departure, and driver injury. I am submitting this complaint for investigation into potential airbag or sensor malfunction.
NHTSA complaint #11699687 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Midlothian, VA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
61/2 INCH SCREEN WENT BLANK on start up. Did not reappear until I got home and stopped and restarted car engine. Have on occasions there is no tire pressure showing when i checked that screen.
NHTSA complaint #11689165 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesVan Nuys, CA
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being serviced, the contact was informed that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced due to an oil leak. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the speedometer gauge failed to function as intended. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the instrument panel had a factory defect. The vehicle was repaired. In addition, the contact was informed that the rear axle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the rack and pinion recently failed. The contact stated that the vehicle veered to the right and the left independently while driving with an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired after the most recent failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
NHTSA complaint #11676732 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesVan Nuys, CA
STEERING
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being serviced, the contact was informed that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced due to an oil leak. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the speedometer gauge failed to function as intended. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the instrument panel had a factory defect. The vehicle was repaired. In addition, the contact was informed that the rear axle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the rack and pinion recently failed. The contact stated that the vehicle veered to the right and the left independently while driving with an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired after the most recent failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
NHTSA complaint #11676732 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesVan Nuys, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being serviced, the contact was informed that the rack and pinion needed to be replaced due to an oil leak. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the speedometer gauge failed to function as intended. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the instrument panel had a factory defect. The vehicle was repaired. In addition, the contact was informed that the rear axle needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the rack and pinion recently failed. The contact stated that the vehicle veered to the right and the left independently while driving with an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired after the most recent failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
NHTSA complaint #11676732 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.