EmissionsHigh
Secondary air injection pump failure triggering the CEL on cold starts (2007–2009).
- Typically appears
- Age / cold climates
- What to inspect
- Scan for P2440/P2441 codes and ask about any air-pump replacement.
2007–2013 Toyota Tundra · common problems & known faults
The second-generation Tundra is a durable full-size truck, but a few 5.7L V8-era issues are worth checking — chiefly early air-injection and cam-tower oil seepage.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2007–2013 Toyota Tundra are Secondary air injection pump failure triggering the CEL on cold starts (2007–2009), Intermittent no-crank condition or a single audible click when turning the key, requiring multiple attempts to start and Cam tower oil leak weeping down the block. 2 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 Tundra.
5.2/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 2
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Toyota Tundra 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
EngineMedium
Cam tower oil leak weeping down the block.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Look for oil residue around the front of the heads and valley.
SuspensionMedium
Lower ball joint wear causing clunks and uneven tyre wear.
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Jack up and check for play; inspect front tyre edges.
ExhaustLow
Exhaust manifold cracking / bolt failure with a tick on cold start.
- Typically appears
- 100,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for a ticking that fades as the engine warms.
Cooling SystemMedium
Coolant leak causing overheating and a distinct sweet smell, often accompanied by a squeaking auxiliary belt pulley.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch down the front of the engine block behind the radiator fan to check for dried pink coolant crust around the water pump housing.
DrivetrainLow
A noticeable clunk or 'bump' feeling from the rear when coming to a complete stop or accelerating from a standstill.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Drive forward a few metres, brake firmly to a complete halt, then accelerate sharply. Listen and feel for a driveline shunt from the propshaft slip yoke.
Starting SystemHigh
Intermittent no-crank condition or a single audible click when turning the key, requiring multiple attempts to start.
- Typically appears
- 100,000-130,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Cycle the ignition from off to start five times in quick succession. Listen for any hesitation or clicking, as replacing the starter is labour-intensive due to its location under the intake manifold.
SteeringMedium
Heavy steering feel and visible fluid loss from the power steering system, often leading to pump whine at low speeds.
- Typically appears
- 80,000-110,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Turn the steering wheel to full lock and inspect the rubber bellows on the steering rack for power steering fluid saturation or active drips.
Inspecting a Toyota Tundra?
Get a full, tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact car · what to look at, what it costs and how serious it is. Free preview, full report $9.
Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Is the Toyota Tundra reliable?
Yes — the 5.7L V8 is very robust. The main early-build concern is the secondary air-injection system on 2007–2009 trucks.
What should I check first on a used Tundra?
Confirm the air-injection pump has been sorted on early trucks and check for cam-tower oil leaks.
Do Tundras have frame rust issues?
Earlier trucks had a frame-rust program; inspect the frame and check for any prior warranty frame work.
What is the timing belt replacement interval on these engines?
The 4.7-litre V8 used in early models requires a timing belt and water pump replacement every 90,000 miles or nine years. However, the later 4.6-litre and the popular 5.7-litre V8 engines utilise maintenance-free timing chains. Always verify the exact engine variant before advising customers on servicing costs.
Are there any specific automatic gearbox issues to look out for?
The six-speed automatic transmission is generally robust, but it lacks a traditional dipstick, making fluid level checks difficult on the forecourt. Rough shifts or torque converter shudder usually indicate degraded fluid. It is highly recommended to budget for a complete gearbox fluid flush if the vehicle lacks documented transmission servicing.
Why does the 4WD system flash a warning light on the dashboard?
A flashing 4WD light typically indicates a seized front differential actuator or transfer case shift motor, usually caused by a lack of regular use. During your forecourt appraisal, ensure you engage both 4H and 4L to confirm the electronic actuators engage and disengage smoothly without logging fault codes.
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.