Toyota brand mark

Is the 2007–2013 Toyota Tundra reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

5.2/ 10
Mixed

On our documented-fault scoring the Toyota Tundra rates 5.2 out of 10 · mixed. We hold 8 known faults for it and 2 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around emissions, engine and suspension. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Negotiate · budget for the known faults

What the score is built from

Critical
0
High
2
Medium
4
Low
2

Weak points cluster around emissions, engine, suspension, exhaust.

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The faults that decide it

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.
Typical repair
Significant repair · £400–£1,400
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.
Typical repair
Starting & charging parts · £150–£650
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.
Typical repair
Oil leak trace & seal / gasket · £180–£700
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.
Typical repair
Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100
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.
Typical repair
Head gasket / cooling system repair · £900–£2,600

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

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