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Are all Toyota Tacomas assembled in Mexico?

No. Toyota Tacoma production is not limited to Mexico; the midsize pickup is assembled at more than one North American plant, including facilities in the United States and in Baja California, Mexico. Both sites contribute to meeting demand across North America.


Overview of the Tacoma production footprint


The Toyota Tacoma has long been manufactured for the North American market within the region. To strengthen supply and logistics, Toyota operates multiple assembly lines in North America, allowing vehicles to be built closer to major markets in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.


Where Tacomas are built


Two primary assembly locations in North America are currently associated with Tacoma production. Each plant supports the model for regional distribution and customer needs, reflecting Toyota’s multi-site manufacturing approach.


Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas (TMMTX)


The San Antonio, Texas plant has historically served as a key production site for Toyota’s pickup trucks in North America, including Tacomas. The facility underscores Toyota’s western North American manufacturing footprint and its capacity to supply the U.S. market from within the country.


Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Baja California (TMMBC)


The Baja California facility in Mexico was established to produce Tacomas for North American distribution, augmenting U.S. output and enhancing supply capacity for customers in the United States and nearby markets.


What this means for buyers and the market


For customers, the existence of both U.S. and Mexican Tacoma production lines helps Toyota manage demand spikes and reduce lead times. It also reflects broader automaker trends toward regional production to optimize logistics and tariff considerations within North America.


Summary


In short, not all Toyota Tacomas are assembled in Mexico. Toyota operates Tacoma production at at least two North American plants—one in San Antonio, Texas, and another in Baja California, Mexico—forming a diversified manufacturing footprint to serve the North American market.

What Toyota Tacomas to stay away from?


When buying a used Toyota Tacoma, you should avoid the model years with the most reported issues, such as 2005–2006 (frame rust, head gasket issues) and 2016–2017 (transmission, engine, and infotainment problems). Other problematic years include 2000–2004, 2009, 2011, and 2012 due to issues like frame rust, engine, and transmission problems. 
This video discusses the model years of Toyota Tacoma to avoid: 56sEveryman DriverYouTube · May 30, 2024
Model years to avoid

  • 2005–2006: Prone to extensive frame rust and other issues like head gasket problems. 
  • 2009: Had issues with the infotainment system. 
  • 2011: Had various engine and transmission issues. 
  • 2012: Saw increased complaints about engine performance and electronic stability control. 
  • 2016–2017: These first model years of the third generation had a high number of complaints, including transmission and engine issues. 

Common problems to watch for across multiple years 
  • Frame rust: Particularly in models from 2005 to 2010 due to inadequate drainage. 
  • Transmission problems: Including rough shifting, slipping, and premature wear on the clutch. 
  • Engine issues: Such as stalling and excessive oil consumption. 
  • Infotainment system problems: Including crashes and connectivity issues. 
  • Paint peeling: Especially on the super white paint option. 
  • Water leaks: A common problem in the third generation (2016-2023) from the third brake light. 

This video explains common problems with Toyota Tacoma that you should know: 38sFuel ForceYouTube · Sep 7, 2024
Important inspection tips
  • Inspect the frame and undercarriage: Look for signs of rust or damage. 
  • Check the transmission: Listen for strange noises or shifting problems, especially on models known for these issues. 
  • Test all electronic systems: Ensure the infotainment system is working correctly. 
  • Inspect paint condition: Look for any signs of peeling. 
  • Check for water leaks: Inspect the area around the third brake light for any signs of water damage. 

You can watch this video to learn about problems to look for when buying a used Toyota Tacoma: 1mYourCarAngelYouTube · Jul 13, 2024



Are all Toyota Tacomas built in Mexico?


The Toyota Tacoma: A Proud Product of Mexico
For many years, the Toyota Tacoma's production has been concentrated in Mexico, serving the North American market. While some Tacoma production did occur in the United States in the past, Toyota has exclusively manufactured the Tacoma in Mexico since late 2021.



Where are Toyota Tacomas made in the US?


Toyota Tacomas are no longer made in the USA and have been manufactured exclusively in Mexico since late 2021. The assembly plants are located in Tijuana, Baja California, and Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato. While some parts may be manufactured in the United States, such as engines from Huntsville, Alabama, the final assembly for North America now takes place in Mexico.
 

  • Tijuana, Mexico: Assembles Tacomas and has been for two decades. 
  • Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato, Mexico: Opened in 2019 and now also produces Tacomas. 
  • San Antonio, Texas: Formerly assembled the Tacoma and Tundra, but production of the Tacoma shifted to Mexico. 
  • Huntsville, Alabama: The 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine for the 2024 Tacoma is manufactured here. 



What Toyotas are manufactured in Mexico?


Toyota Tacoma
Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Baja California (TMMBC) is a Toyota automobile manufacturing facility located Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico that opened in 2002. The facility currently produces the Toyota Tacoma for the North American market and pickup truck beds.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.