2008 Toyota Tundra

Introduction

The 2008 Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck available in a variety of configurations. It features a powerful engine and rugged construction, making it popular amongst truck enthusiasts. Engine options include a 4.0L V6 with 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, a 4.7L V8 with 271 horsepower and 313 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.7L V8 with 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed automatic transmission, a 6-speed automatic transmission, and a 6-speed manual transmission.

Engine

4.0L V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, leading to a rattling noise at startup, loss of power, and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: 13V175000

4.7L V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing a vacuum leak and leading to rough idling, loss of power, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L V8

• Valve Seat Recession
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve seats can recede, leading to valve float, reduced compression, and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Lockup Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter lockup clutch can fail, leading to shuddering, slipping, or a loss of gears.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Solenoid Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A solenoid valve can fail, leading to shifting issues, harsh shifts, or a loss of gears.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty solenoid valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Lower Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: The lower ball joints can wear out, leading to popping or grinding noises when turning or braking, and premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the lower ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Leaf Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear leaf springs can break, leading to a sagging rear end and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can discharge prematurely, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the battery or fix any electrical drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The starter can fail, preventing the vehicle from starting.
  • Solution: Replace the starter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Fender Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: The fenders can develop rust over time, especially in areas exposed to road salt or moisture.
  • Solution: Replace the fenders.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Underbody Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: The underbody of the vehicle can develop rust over time, especially in areas exposed to road salt or moisture.
  • Solution: Treat or replace the affected parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rear View Mirror Shaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The rearview mirror can shake excessively while driving, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Replace or tighten the rearview mirror assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Toyota Tundra is a solid truck with good reliability. However, it has experienced some issues related to the engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity of these issues varies, but they can be costly to repair. Some recalls have been issued for the Tundra, but they address specific problems and are not indicative of widespread defects. Prospective buyers should research the potential issues and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing a used Tundra.