2019 Toyota Tundra
The 2019 Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck known for its reliability and strong resale value. It comes standard with a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 310 horsepower and 327 lb-ft of torque. An optional and more common engine is the 5.7-liter V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. People often praise the Tundra for its comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and proven dependability. Some common complaints include its relatively poor fuel economy and outdated technology compared to competitors.
Engine
5.7L V8
- Cam Tower Oil Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the cam tower area of the engine. Visible oil seepage is common. The leak can drip onto exhaust components causing a burning smell.
- Solution: Resealing the cam towers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Secondary Air Injection Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, codes related to the secondary air injection system. Can sometimes cause the vehicle to enter limp mode.
- Solution: Replacement of the secondary air injection pump and/or valves. Bypassing the system is also an option with aftermarket kits, however this is not always legal.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ (Replacement), $500+ (Bypass Kit)
- Recalls: None Found
4.6L V8
No Issues Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)
- Torque Converter Shudder
- Description/Symptoms: A shudder or vibration felt during light acceleration, usually between 35-45 mph. Can become more pronounced over time.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. Fluid flush can help, but will not solve the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Leaf Spring Squeak
- Description/Symptoms: Squeaking noise coming from the rear leaf springs, especially when going over bumps or uneven surfaces.
- Solution: Lubricating the leaf spring bushings and contact points. In severe cases, replacement of the leaf spring bushings or the entire leaf spring assembly may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 (Lubrication), $200 - $800+ (Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Entune System Freezing/Crashing
- Description/Symptoms: The Toyota Entune infotainment system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes intermittently.
- Solution: Software updates for the Entune system. In some cases, replacement of the head unit may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update), $500 - $1,500+ (Head Unit Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions (e.g., TPMS, Parking Sensors)
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunction or failure of tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors or parking sensors. Error messages displayed on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per sensor
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Chrome Trim Peeling/Delamination
- Description/Symptoms: The chrome trim pieces (e.g., around windows, bumpers) peel or delaminate over time.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected chrome trim pieces.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per piece
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking (in hot climates)
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of the dashboard material, particularly in vehicles frequently exposed to high temperatures and sunlight.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard. Dashboard covers can also be used as a temporary solution.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ (Dashboard Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2019 Toyota Tundra remains a reliable truck but has some notable issues. The most significant potential problems revolve around the 5.7L V8 engine (cam tower oil leaks, secondary air injection pump failure) and the 6-speed automatic transmission (torque converter shudder). Other concerns include suspension squeaks, electrical glitches with the Entune system, and exterior/interior cosmetic issues. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for sensor replacements or lubrication to several thousand dollars for engine or transmission work. While no widespread recalls affect the described issues, it’s always best to check the NHTSA website using the VIN of any vehicle you are considering to confirm the most up-to-date recall information.