Do all tundras have limited-slip differential?

Short answer: No. Not every Tundra uses a limited-slip differential; the rear diff option depends on trim, year, and optional packages.

Details: The question touches on how the modern Toyota Tundra lineup handles traction control in its different trims. Limited-slip, automatic locking, and open differentials affect how power is distributed to the wheels in various conditions. Understanding which Tundra you’re looking at—and which packages it has—helps you gauge whether you’ll get an LSD or a different type of rear differential.

What is a limited-slip differential?

A limited-slip differential (LSD) is a type of axle that limits the amount of wheel spin on one side when traction is uneven, sending more torque to the wheel with better grip. There are several implementations, including automatic LSDs that engage under load and electronically controlled locking differentials that can be locked for maximum traction. In the Tundra lineup, the availability of LSD or locking capability is tied to trim level and optional packages, not guaranteed across every configuration.

The following overview explains how differential options typically appear across the current Tundra trims and model years. Note that availability can vary by year and market, so always verify with the latest official specs or a dealer.

Typical diff options by trim (subject to year and package):

• SR 4x4: Generally comes with an open rear differential by default; an Off-Road or similar package may add an electronically controlled locking rear differential (ELD) or an optional LSD.


• SR5 4x4: Often open by default, with LSD or ELD available as part of Off-Road or upgraded packages in some years.


• Limited / Platinum / 1794 Edition: These luxury-oriented trims commonly rely on open diffs, with LSD or ELD available only if you specify off-road or tech packages that include it.


• TRD Off-Road: Typically aligns with off-road-focused hardware and often offers an electronically controlled locking rear differential (ELD) as part of the package or as standard on newer model years.


• TRD Pro: Generally equipped with an electronically controlled locking rear differential (ELD) to maximize off-road traction in challenging terrain.

In summary, off-road-oriented trims tend to offer some form of locking differential or LSD, while base or luxury trims may not include it unless you opt for a specific Off-Road/Tech package. Always confirm the exact spec for the model year you’re considering.

How to verify your Tundra’s differential on a given vehicle

To confirm the differential configuration on a specific Tundra, use these checks and sources before purchase or when planning upgrades:

• Consult the official window sticker (Monroney label) for the exact model year and trim; look for terms like “electronic locking rear differential (ELD)” or “limited-slip differential.”


• Review the factory-equipped options list or build sheet for the vehicle’s VIN on Toyota’s official site or through a dealer.


• Check the owner’s manual or the drivetrain section of the dealer’s spec sheet for differential type and available packages.


• Ask the dealer directly about which packages include ELD or LSD for the exact configuration you’re considering.


• If shopping used, request a printout of the original equipment and verify with VIN-specific documentation or a verifier tool.

Conclusion: If you need guaranteed rear-diff locking for off-road work, target TRD Off-Road or TRD Pro configurations and verify that the vehicle includes an electronically controlled locking rear differential (ELD) or the specific LSD option in your year of interest.

Bottom line by year/trim snapshot

Because Toyota may update features annually, the current answer can vary. Always check the exact model year’s official specs or a trusted dealer for the definitive differential configuration.

Summary

No—not all Toyota Tundras come with a limited-slip differential. Availability depends on trim and optional packages, with off-road-focused models (such as TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro) more likely to include some form of locking or limited-slip capability. To know for a specific vehicle, review the window sticker, build sheet, or dealer specification for that year and trim.

Do Toyota tundras have locking differentials?

Yes, the Toyota Tundra offers an electronically locking rear differential as standard on its off-road-focused TRD Pro models, and it is also available on some other 4WD trims like the 2023 and newer models. However, it's important to note that this locking differential on the factory TRD models typically only engages when in 4WD Low range. For the general Tundra models that aren't TRD Pro, the standard system is often an Auto LSD (Automatic Limited Slip Differential) which uses the brakes to help control wheel slip.
 
Toyota Tundra locking differential availability

• TRD Pro: Comes standard with an electronically locking rear differential that activates in 4WD Low. 
• Other TRD and Off-Road trims: These trims may include an electronically locking rear differential as standard or as part of an option package, typically engaging in 4WD Low. 
• Non-TRD trims: The standard system is an Auto LSD, which works differently from a true mechanical locker by using the brakes to manage wheel slip, rather than physically locking the axle. 

How the factory locking differential works

• The locking differential engages when the truck is in 4WD Low, not in 2WD or 4WD High. 
• When engaged, it locks the rear wheels together, ensuring both turn at the same speed to provide maximum traction. 
• This is different from the Auto LSD, which applies the brakes to the wheel that is slipping, sending power to the wheel with more traction. 

How to tell if tundra has limited slip?

Direction. If the other wheel spins in the same. Direction. You have a limited slip diff. See guys but if the other wheel was spinning in the opposite.

How do I tell if my differential is limited slip?

You can tell if your differential is a limited slip by performing a simple test on a lifted vehicle or by checking for a specific tag on the differential housing. With the rear wheels off the ground and the vehicle in neutral, spin one wheel by hand; if the other wheel spins in the same direction, it's a limited slip. If the other wheel spins in the opposite direction, it's an open differential. 
Method 1: Test the wheels

1. Park and secure the vehicle. Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and block the front wheels to prevent rolling. 
2. Safely lift the rear. Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and secure it with jack stands. 
3. Place the transmission in neutral. Make sure the transmission is in neutral. 
4. Spin one rear wheel. Rotate one of the rear wheels by hand. 
5. Observe the other wheel. 
   • Same direction: If the opposite rear wheel turns in the same direction as the one you're spinning, you have a limited slip differential. 
   • Opposite direction: If the opposite rear wheel turns in the opposite direction, you have an open differential. 

This video demonstrates how to test if your car has a limited slip differential: 45sERICSDIYGARAGEYouTube · Dec 8, 2018
Method 2: Check the tag

1. Locate the differential. Find the differential housing at the rear of the vehicle. 
2. Look for a tag. Check for a sticker or tag on the differential that says, "Use only limited slip differential fluid". 
3. Consider the tag's reliability. This tag can sometimes be missing, damaged, or removed, so the wheel test is a more definitive method. 

This video shows how to check the tag on the differential housing: 51sChrisFixYouTube · Nov 26, 2012

What year tundras to stay away from?

You should be wary of the 2007, 2012, and 2013 Toyota Tundra model years due to common issues like air injection pump failure, frame rust, and transmission problems. Additionally, some owners recommend avoiding the 2022 model year, as it was the first year of a new generation and had a number of reported issues with its new engine and technology.
 
Specific model years to be cautious of

• 2007: This year is known for problems with the air injection pump, engine knocking, and drivetrain vibrations. 
• 2012: This model year is frequently cited as the worst due to a high number of complaints about engine, transmission, and electrical issues. 
• 2013: Potential issues include gearbox problems and lower fuel efficiency. 
• 2017: While generally reliable, this year had six recalls related to potential power steering leaks, seat bracket breakage, and incorrect load information. 
• 2022: As the first model year of the new generation, it is recommended to avoid this year due to a number of issues with the new engine and technology. 

Other considerations

• 2005-2008: These years had a high number of complaints, with common problems including secondary air pump failure and frame rust. 
• 2020: Some sources suggest avoiding this year due to potential paint defects and other quality control issues, possibly due to COVID-19-related workforce disruptions. 
• 2000-2003: These years were recalled for rust-prone rear crossmembers.