2012 Toyota Tundra
The 2012 Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck known for its reliability and robust build quality. Engine options included a 4.0L V6, a 4.6L V8, and a 5.7L V8. The 5.7L V8 produced 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. It was often paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciated the Tundra’s towing capacity, dependability, and spacious cabin. Dislikes often included fuel economy and some interior material choices.
Engine
4.0L V6
- No Issues Found
4.6L V8
- No Issues Found
5.7L V8
- Secondary Air Injection Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, trouble codes related to the secondary air injection system, and potential engine performance issues. May hear a loud noise upon start-up.
- Solution: Replacement of the failed secondary air injection pump and/or valves. Bypassing the system can also be done but may not be legal for road use.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially upon cold start, exhaust leak smell, reduced fuel economy.
- Solution: Replacement of the cracked exhaust manifold, typically with an aftermarket option designed to be more durable or welding the existing cracks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+ (Aftermarket), $800-$1500+ (OEM)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic (4.0L V6)
- No Issues Found
6-Speed Automatic (4.6L V8 & 5.7L V8)
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially at lower RPMs under light load, indicative of torque converter clutch slippage.
- Solution: Transmission flush with updated fluid, torque converter replacement, or complete transmission rebuild depending on severity.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+ (Flush), $800 - $2,500+ (Torque Converter/Rebuild)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the truck sitting lower than the front, reduced load-carrying capacity, potential cracking or breaking of leaf springs.
- Solution: Replacement of the rear leaf springs, potentially with heavier-duty aftermarket options.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, slow starting, battery not charging, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Driver & Passenger Airbag Inflator
- Description/Symptoms: Inflators could explode during deployment, leading to injury or death.
- Solution: Replace driver and passenger airbag inflator with the updated version.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Free (Recall)
- Recalls: 19TA01, 19TB01, J0K, 23TA03, 23TB03
Exterior
- Rust on Frame
- Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the truck frame, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. Can lead to structural weakness over time.
- Solution: Rust removal, treatment, and protective coating application. Severely rusted frames may require extensive repair or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ (Depending on severity and repair method)
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in hot climates.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2012 Toyota Tundra is a generally reliable truck, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. The most notable are the secondary air injection pump failure and exhaust manifold cracking on the 5.7L V8, torque converter shudder in the 6-speed transmission, rear leaf spring issues, and some electrical problems. Frame rust is a major concern in regions with road salt. The costs to address these issues range from a few hundred dollars for minor repairs to several thousand dollars for major component replacements. The airbag inflator recall is a critical safety issue to verify has been addressed.