Are there any problems with the 2021 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is generally reliable, but like any pickup it has some caveats to watch, especially around fuel economy, electronics, and trim-specific nuances. The overall consensus is positive, with strong resale value and solid off-road capability weighing in its favor.
In this article, we examine common concerns raised by owners and reviewers, note how issues can vary by trim and usage, and offer practical guidance for buyers considering a used 2021 Tacoma. We also summarize recalls and safety considerations to help readers make informed decisions.
Common concerns reported by owners
Before listing the most frequently discussed issues, it’s useful to understand that problems tend to cluster around drivetrain behavior, electronics, and ride comfort. These vary by trim (SR, SR5, TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro) and by whether the truck is 4x4 or 4x2, as well as by whether the transmission is manual or automatic.
- Fuel economy and real-world performance: The 3.5-liter V6 provides strong torque for towing and off-roading, but actual mpg often trails EPA estimates, especially with 4x4 and larger tires.
- Transmission behavior: Some owners report occasional shifts that feel firmer or hesitant, particularly on older software builds or in cold weather; many issues are resolved with software updates or routine maintenance.
- Infotainment and electronics: The touchscreen and Bluetooth systems can be slow to respond or experience intermittent connectivity issues on certain model years and configurations.
- Ride quality and cabin noise: Taller tires, off-road suspensions, and highway wind noise can make the cabin feel louder or stiffer on some trims, especially with heavier aftermarket tires.
- Interior wear and materials: Hard plastics and wear-prone upholstery are noted by some owners after long-term use, particularly in high-traffic areas of the cabin.
- Mechanical concerns in some climates: In salt-prone or harsh climates, there is heightened attention to underbody rust or corrosion, so buyers in those areas should inspect frame and rust-prone areas carefully.
Overall, the reported concerns are not universal, and many Tacomas remain trouble-free with proper maintenance. The best approach is to verify maintenance history, test drive the specific trim, and review any model-year bulletins or recalls that may apply to a given vehicle.
Variation by trim and drivetrain
Differences among SR, SR5, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Pro trims influence how problems manifest. TRD models with off-road suspensions and larger tires may experience more vibration, noise, and wear on certain components, while base trims typically ride smoother but may not have the same features. Transmission choices—manual versus automatic—also affect feel and maintenance considerations, with automatics being more common in many markets.
In short, trim level and powertrain choice matter for both potential issues and how they’re addressed under warranty or service campaigns.
Safety, recalls, and reliability notes
Safety campaigns and recalls are an important part of ownership. Open recalls can affect any vehicle, including 2021 Tacomas, and status can change over time as campaigns are completed. Prospective buyers should treat recalls as a priority and verify that any open campaigns have been addressed before purchase.
To stay current, buyers should use official sources to check recall status for a specific VIN and review reliability reports from trusted automotive outlets. The following steps help ensure you’re up to date on safety and reliability concerns.
- Check the NHTSA recall database with the vehicle’s VIN to see open campaigns and their status.
- Visit Toyota’s official recalls page or owner portal for model-year specific campaigns and service history.
- Request documentation from the seller showing that any recall work has been completed.
- Ensure the vehicle’s software for the infotainment and safety systems is current, as updates can address certain electronic issues.
Recalls and safety campaigns are not unusual for any modern vehicle, and addressing them promptly is part of responsible ownership. Consequently, a thorough check for recalls should be part of any used-Tacoma purchase process.
How to shop for a used 2021 Toyota Tacoma: a practical checklist
If you’re considering a used 2021 Tacoma, use this checklist to assess condition, maintenance history, and potential issues before buying.
- Obtain and review maintenance records: confirm timely oil changes, filter changes, and other routine services; note any repeat visits for the same issue.
- Inspect for leaks and engine health: look for oil, coolant, or fuel leaks; monitor oil level and call out any abnormal consumption; check for blue or white smoke on start-up.
- Evaluate the transmission and drivetrain: test the automatic’s shifts for smoothness; verify 4x4 engagement works properly if equipped; listen for abnormal noises during acceleration or deceleration.
- Assess the electronics and infotainment: ensure the touchscreen responds, Bluetooth pairs reliably, and features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto function correctly.
- Check brakes and suspension: inspect brake pads/rotors for wear; look for pulling or wandering in the steering; check for worn or damaged suspension components and alignment issues.
- Inspect tires and underbody: verify tread depth and look for uneven wear; inspect for rust, corrosion, or damage on the undercarriage and frame, especially in areas with heavy road salt use.
- Review recall and safety history: confirm open recalls are resolved; request a recall completion certificate if applicable.
- Evaluate fuel economy against the window sticker: observe consistency with advertised numbers given driving conditions and trim configuration.
- Get a trusted pre-purchase inspection: have a qualified mechanic perform a thorough inspection to catch issues not visible during a test drive.
Executing this checklist helps buyers gauge the overall condition and potential long-term ownership costs, reducing the risk of surprise repairs after purchase.
Summary
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma remains a solid choice for buyers seeking durability, off-road capability, and strong resale value. While there are some common concerns—primarily related to fuel economy, electronics, and trim-specific ride characteristics—these issues are not universally experienced and are often addressable through maintenance, software updates, and recalls. For used-purchase readiness, thorough documentation, a professional inspection, and up-to-date recall status are essential. When approached with diligence, a 2021 Tacoma can offer dependable, long-term performance.
