2012 Toyota Tacoma
The 2012 Toyota Tacoma is a popular mid-size pickup truck known for its reliability and off-road capability. Engine options included a 2.7L inline-4 producing 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.0L V6 generating 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic with the 4-cylinder engine, and a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic with the V6. Owners often praise the Tacoma for its longevity and resale value but sometimes complain about its fuel economy, ride quality, and interior materials.
Engine
2.7L Inline-4
- No Issues Found
4.0L V6
- Timing Cover Oil Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak originating from the timing cover area, often noticed as oil drips on the ground or a burning oil smell.
- Solution: Removal of the timing cover, cleaning the surfaces, and resealing with new gasket material.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Air Injection Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Error codes P2440, P2441, P2442, P2443, P2444, P2445, P2446, P2447, P0410, P0412, P0415, P0416. Loud noises during cold starts and potential for “limp mode”. This is related to the secondary air injection system designed to reduce emissions during startup.
- Solution: Replacement of the air injection pump, and possibly the air injection valves. Some owners opt for bypass kits.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic (2.7L Engine)
- No Issues Found
5-Speed Automatic (4.0L Engine)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jarring shifts, particularly between gears. Can become more pronounced over time.
- Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. In some cases, the valve body may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Manual (2.7L Engine)
- No Issues Found
6-Speed Manual (4.0L Engine)
- Throwout Bearing Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Squealing or grinding noise when the clutch pedal is depressed.
- Solution: Replacement of the throwout bearing. Clutch replacement is often recommended at the same time due to the labor involved.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Leaf Spring Rust/Breakage
- Description/Symptoms: Rusting leaf springs, often leading to breakage, sagging rear end, and compromised ride quality.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaf spring assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: “Remedy Available” - Recall Number: 13V024000. Some vehicles are involved with a recall for leaf springs. Check your VIN with Toyota to confirm if affected.
- Front Strut Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of the front strut assemblies.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Clock Spring Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Airbag light illumination, inability to use steering wheel controls (horn, radio controls, cruise control).
- Solution: Replacement of the clock spring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Frame Rust
- Description/Symptoms: Significant rust on the frame, potentially leading to structural damage. This is particularly prevalent in areas with heavy road salt use.
- Solution: Frame replacement. This is a very costly repair and might not be feasible for older vehicles.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- No Issues Found
Summary
The 2012 Toyota Tacoma, while generally reliable, does have some common issues owners should be aware of. The 4.0L V6 engine can suffer from timing cover oil leaks and air injection pump failures. Rust, particularly frame rust, is a major concern, especially in areas where road salt is used. Leaf springs are also prone to rust and breakage. Electrically, clock spring failures can occur. Costs for repairs vary, but some issues like frame rust can be very expensive to address.