2021 Toyota Tacoma

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is a popular mid-size pickup truck known for its reliability and off-road capability. It comes with two engine options: a 2.7L inline-4 producing 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 producing 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. Both engines can be paired with either a 6-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission, though the manual is less common and generally only available on the V6. People like the Tacoma for its ruggedness, strong resale value, and off-road prowess, especially in TRD trims. Common dislikes include its somewhat dated interior, smaller rear seat space in the Access Cab configuration, and fuel economy that is not great compared to some competitors.

Engine

2.7L Inline-4

• No Issues Found

3.5L V6

• Timing Cover Oil Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak originating from the timing cover area, often observed as oil residue on the front of the engine. Low engine oil level, oil smell, and possible staining on driveway.
  • Solution: Removal of the timing cover, resealing with new gaskets and sealant, and reinstallation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rough Idle/Shaking at Startup
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported a rough idle and shaking feeling at startup, particularly in colder weather. This can sometimes be accompanied by a check engine light.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair may require updated engine control software, cleaning or replacement of fuel injectors, or addressing other potential issues identified through diagnostics.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Erratic Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of the transmission hesitating, particularly when shifting between gears or when accelerating from a stop. Occasional hard shifts or clunking noises can also be present.
  • Solution: Some owners have found success with transmission fluid drain and fill. More severe cases may require valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid change) - $4,000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shudder or vibration felt at lower speeds, typically when the transmission is in a higher gear. This is often caused by the torque converter not locking up properly.
  • Solution: A transmission flush and fill with updated fluid can sometimes resolve the issue. More severe cases may require torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid change) - $1,500+ (torque converter replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Squeak
  • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable squeaking noise coming from the rear suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Applying lubricant to the leaf spring bushings can temporarily alleviate the noise. Some owners have replaced the leaf springs with aftermarket options.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 (lubricant) - $500+ (leaf spring replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Entune Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Entune infotainment system can be slow to respond, glitchy, or prone to freezing. Bluetooth connectivity issues are also common.
  • Solution: Software updates can sometimes resolve the issue, but some owners have opted to replace the head unit with an aftermarket option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Free (software update) - $500+ (aftermarket head unit)
  • Recalls: None Found
• No Issues Found

Exterior

• Third Brake Light Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin through the third brake light, typically after rain or washing the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacing the third brake light gasket or sealing the light assembly with silicone sealant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 (sealant) - $150+ (new brake light assembly)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dash Warping/Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Warping or cracking of the dashboard, particularly in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dash cover or replacement of the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (cover) - $1,000+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma generally maintains Toyota’s reputation for reliability, but some owners have reported issues, particularly with the 3.5L V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances like leaf spring squeaks to more serious problems like engine oil leaks or transmission problems that could require expensive repairs. While many issues can be resolved with relatively inexpensive fixes, some may require more significant investment. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect any used Tacoma before purchase.