TransmissionMedium
6-speed automatic hunting/lurching at low speeds.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test-drive in stop-go traffic and feel for erratic shifts or hesitation.
2016–2022 Toyota Tacoma · common problems & known faults
The third-gen Tacoma is a durable, high-resale midsize truck, but the automatic transmission's behavior and a few drivetrain items are worth checking.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2016–2022 Toyota Tacoma are Oil weeping from the timing chain cover, often requiring engine removal to reseal, 6-speed automatic hunting/lurching at low speeds and Bed/frame surface rust in salt regions (earlier Toyotas had frame issues). 1 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Toyota Tacoma.
6.0/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 1
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 3
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Toyota Tacoma problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
DrivetrainLow
Rear differential/CV and driveline vibration.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for driveline clunk and feel for vibration at speed.
BodyMedium
Bed/frame surface rust in salt regions (earlier Toyotas had frame issues).
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Inspect the frame and bed underside for corrosion.
EngineLow
Occasional carbon buildup on the 3.5L direct-injection V6.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Watch for rough idle; ask about intake cleaning.
EngineHigh
Oil weeping from the timing chain cover, often requiring engine removal to reseal.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch down the front-right side of the engine block behind the alternator and check the undertray for fresh oil residue.
InteriorLow
High-pitched chirping or ticking noise from the HVAC blower motor.
- Typically appears
- 30,000-50,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Turn the ignition on, set the interior heater fan to speed settings one and two, and listen closely in the passenger footwell for a squeak.
BodyMedium
Water ingress into the cabin due to a degraded high-level third brake light seal.
- Typically appears
- 3-5 years
- What to inspect
- Press firmly around the high-level brake light lens to check for perished foam seals, and inspect the rear headlining for water rings or dampness.
SuspensionMedium
Creaking or groaning noises from the front lower control arm bushes over bumps.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Push down heavily on the front wings to bounce the suspension and listen for rubbery creaks, or apply full steering lock whilst stationary.
Inspecting a Toyota Tacoma?
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Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Is the Toyota Tacoma reliable?
Yes — it's known for exceptional durability and resale, with only the transmission feel as a common complaint.
What's wrong with the Tacoma transmission?
The 6-speed auto can hunt between gears at low speed; it's a drivability quirk more than a reliability failure.
Should I check the frame?
Yes — inspect the frame for rust, especially on trucks from salt-belt states.
Why does the 3.5L V6 engine sound like it is ticking at idle?
The 3.5L 2GR-FKS engine uses Toyota's D-4S dual fuel injection system, which includes a high-pressure mechanical fuel pump. This pump produces a distinct, rapid ticking noise at idle. It is a normal characteristic of the engine and does not indicate a fault, provided the idle remains smooth and no warning lights are illuminated.
Do the rear leaf springs require replacement for heavy towing?
The factory rear leaf springs on this generation are known to be relatively soft and prone to sagging under sustained payloads or frequent towing. If a forecourt vehicle sits noticeably low at the rear or the bump stops show heavy impact marks, the springs may require upgrading or replacement before retail.
How quickly should the electronic four-wheel-drive system engage?
The electronic shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system should engage within three to five seconds. If the dashboard indicator flashes continuously without engaging, the actuator is likely seized due to a lack of use. Advise your technicians to test the selector on a loose surface during the appraisal to ensure the transfer box operates correctly.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.