How long should a 2016 Toyota Tacoma last?

The typical 2016 Toyota Tacoma can be expected to reach roughly 200,000 to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance, and some well-kept examples push beyond 350,000 miles.

As the first year of Toyota’s third-generation Tacoma, the 2016 model pairs durable powertrains with a straightforward design that many owners say lends itself to long life. Longevity depends on maintenance, driving conditions, and how the truck is treated—whether it’s used for daily commuting, heavy towing, or off-road work in tough climates.

What influences a Tacoma's longevity

Engine and drivetrain durability

The 2016 Tacoma offers two main engines: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6, both with timing chains rather than belts. This design generally reduces the risk of a major timing-related failure and can contribute to longer service life, provided regular maintenance is observed.

Maintenance history and driving patterns

Regular, manufacturer-recommended maintenance and attentive care—oil changes on schedule, fluid checks, and timely component replacements—have a big impact on how long a Tacoma lasts. Trucks used for frequent towing, harsh off-road work, or in extreme climates may experience faster wear if maintenance lags.

What is a realistic lifespan in miles?

Before diving into specifics, here is a snapshot of typical mileage outcomes for the 2016 Tacoma under common ownership scenarios.

• Most well-maintained examples commonly reach 200,000 to 300,000 miles.


• With meticulous upkeep, some trucks push beyond 300,000 miles and even into the mid-300,000s.


• Rough climates, heavy towing, or neglected maintenance can shorten life expectancy and lead to more frequent repairs.


• Overall results vary widely based on climate, road conditions, and how faithfully maintenance plans are followed.

Across ownership experiences, the consensus is clear: consistent maintenance and prudent usage are the best predictors of a long life for a 2016 Tacoma.

Maintenance practices that maximize longevity

To extend the life of a 2016 Tacoma, here are the core maintenance practices collectors and owners emphasize. The exact intervals come from the official owner's manual and can vary by vehicle condition and usage.

1. Follow Toyota's factory maintenance schedule and use quality oil and filters; perform oil and filter changes at the recommended intervals, especially if synthetic oil is used.


2. Regularly check and service fluids (engine oil, transmission/transfer case fluids, coolant, differential fluids) at the intervals outlined in the manual, with additional checks if towing or heavy payloads are common.


3. Replace spark plugs at the interval specified for the V6 engine (commonly around 100,000–120,000 miles depending on usage), and monitor sensors as needed to maintain combustion efficiency.


4. Inspect and replace belts or initiate a controlled service as needed; monitor the water pump and cooling system to prevent overheating.


5. Maintain brakes and tires, including regular rotation and proper alignment; address wear as soon as it’s detected and replace components before they fail.


6. Keep air filters (engine and cabin) clean and replace them per the manual or sooner in dusty or harsh environments.


7. Protect the undercarriage from rust, especially in regions with road salt or high humidity; wash the underside and address corrosion promptly.

Adhering to these practices helps reduce wear and extend the life of the truck, making the high-mileage milestones more attainable.

Reality check for owners

Owner experiences show that a 2016 Tacoma’s longevity is highly variable. Many examples prove durable reliability with routine care, while others show the impact of climate, workload, and maintenance gaps. Overall, the model’s reputation for longevity remains strong in the midsize-truck segment, with a solid chance of reaching and surpassing the 300,000-mile mark for well-cared-for vehicles.

Bottom line

A well-maintained 2016 Toyota Tacoma is commonly expected to last into the 200,000–300,000 mile range, with some reaching beyond 300,000 miles. The key drivers are faithful maintenance, sensible use, and attention to wear items as the truck accrues miles.

Summary

The 2016 Tacoma, the kickoff year of the third generation, is widely regarded as a durable platform. Real-world lifespans typically fall between 200,000 and 300,000 miles, and many reach higher with diligent care. Regular oil changes, timely fluid services, spark plug replacement, and proactive brake, tire, and rust prevention practices are central to extending the truck’s longevity. While individual results vary, the model’s blend of robust engineering and straightforward maintenance makes long-term ownership feasible for many buyers.

What year to stay away from Toyota Tacoma?

Years to be cautious with include the 2005-2010 models, primarily due to significant rust issues, especially on the frame. The 2016-2017 models are also frequently mentioned for problems with their new-generation redesign, including transmission and engine issues, while the 2016 model year stands out with the highest number of overall complaints according to some sources. The 2019 model year had safety recalls for fuel pumps and airbags. 
Second Generation (2005-2015)

• 2005-2010: Many of these years are noted for extensive rust on the frame and body, sometimes requiring costly repairs. 
• 2006: This year is particularly cited for transmission problems (slipping and hard shifting), frame rust, and engine oil consumption. 
• 2009: This model year experienced significant frame rust, steering issues, and brake problems. 
• 2011-2012: These models had recalls for safety issues like airbag and fuel pump problems, along with complaints about vibrations, headlights, and drivetrain issues. 

Third Generation (2016-present)

• 2016-2017: As the first two years of the third generation, they are frequently cited for reliability problems. Issues include rough/slipping transmissions, engine problems like stalling or oil consumption, and interior quality complaints. The 2017 model is specifically mentioned for transmission and steering issues. 
• 2019: This year had safety recalls related to the fuel pump and airbags. 
• 2024: This model year may have transmission hesitation, rough shifts, and gear hunting issues. 

Best practices

• Inspect for rust: Always check older models thoroughly for frame rust, which is a major recurring issue in certain years. 
• Check recalls: Before buying any used vehicle, check for any open safety recalls and ensure they have been addressed by the manufacturer. 
• Consider later models: Generally, later models within each generation tend to be more reliable, but it's always best to research specific model years. 

How many miles will a 2016 Tacoma last?

A 2016 Toyota Tacoma can last well over 250,000 miles, with many owners reporting reaching 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Its longevity is due to its reputation for durability and reliability, and some Tacomas have even surpassed 1 million miles. The lifespan depends heavily on consistent, proper maintenance, such as routine oil changes with synthetic oil. 
Factors affecting longevity

• Proper Maintenance: Regular oil changes, especially with synthetic oil, and addressing maintenance needs promptly are crucial for a long lifespan. 
• Durability: The Tacoma is built with high-strength components, making it durable even under strenuous use. 
• Engine and Transmission: The engine and transmission are known to last a very long time. Some owners report getting hundreds of thousands of miles from their Tacomas, with minimal major part failures beyond routine replacements like starters, clutches, and steering racks. 
• Frame Rust: Frame rust has been an issue for some Tacomas, particularly in certain climates. A recall was issued for most third-generation models to fix this, so it's important to check the vehicle's history and look for any rust issues before purchasing. 

What to expect

• Typical lifespan: With good care, you can expect a 2016 Tacoma to last well over 250,000 miles, and many reach 300,000 miles or higher. 
• Realistic mileage: A realistic expectation for a well-maintained 2016 Tacoma is between 250,000 and 400,000 miles. 
• Extreme cases: Some Tacomas have been documented to last over 1 million miles, though this is an exceptional case and requires extensive, long-term care. 

Should I buy a Tacoma with 150k miles?

How many miles is too many for a used Tacoma? If it's well-maintained, a Tacoma with 150,000–200,000 miles can still have plenty of life left. Always request a service history report and schedule a professional inspection before buying.

Is 2016 a good year for a Tacoma?

The 2016 Tacoma is considered a good year for its redesigned interior, improved V6 engine, and strong overall reliability, but some owners have reported an issue with the crank position sensor. Consumer sentiment is generally positive, with many recommending the truck, though performance is considered a weaker point, especially with the four-cylinder engine. 
Positives

• Redesign: This year marked a full redesign with a more rigid frame, new V6 engine, and a more refined interior. 
• Interior: The cabin is more modern, and the seats are an improvement over previous models. 
• Engine: The V6 engine offers lively acceleration and is more fuel-efficient than the previous generation's engine. 
• Reliability: The 2016 Tacoma generally has good reliability, though the crank position sensor issue is a known problem. 
• Consumer ratings: Many consumers recommend the truck, citing its reliability and styling as strong features. 

Potential drawbacks

• Crank position sensor: The 2016 and 2017 model years have been associated with a faulty crank position sensor that can cause stalling or stuttering. 
• Performance: While the V6 is good, some drivers feel the truck can be underpowered, especially when accelerating or going uphill. The four-cylinder engine is also considered weak. 
• Fuel economy: As with most trucks, fuel economy can be poor, especially for four-wheel drive models. 
• Interior limitations: Despite improvements, some still find the interior to be narrow and the rear seats tight for taller passengers. 

Recommendation

• The 2016 Tacoma is a good choice, particularly with the V6 engine, but be aware of the potential crank position sensor issue. 
• If you are looking at this model, ensure the crank position sensor has been checked or replaced.