Is there a recall on the new Toyota Tacoma transmission?
There is no active recall specifically targeting the transmission on the latest Toyota Tacoma models as of today. Owners should verify their vehicle’s status using official sources, since recall information can change and may vary by VIN.
The question centers on whether any safety-related defect in the newest generation Tacoma’s transmission has prompted a nationwide remedy. While recalls are tracked by federal agencies and automakers, some issues are handled through non-recall service bulletins or dealer campaigns. This article explains how to check status, what qualifies as a recall, and what steps to take if you suspect a transmission concern.
Current recall status and how it is tracked
Recall status is determined by safety referrals from manufacturers and oversight by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). A recall requires action on VIN-specific vehicles at no cost to the owner and is typically accompanied by a public notification. For the 2024–2025 Toyota Tacoma at this time, there is no widely reported open recall focused on the transmission itself, according to official databases. Status can change, so owners should check their VIN regularly.
Understanding recalls vs. service bulletins
It’s important to distinguish between a formal recall and a maintenance advisory issued by a manufacturer. The following list clarifies the difference and how they apply to transmission-related concerns.
To help readers, here are the key distinctions you should know:
- Recall: a safety-related defect or noncompliance with federal standards that requires a free remedy; VIN-specific; owners are notified by mail; the dealer must perform the fix.
- Service bulletin (TSB): a dealer-facing guide for diagnosing and repairing issues; may involve updates or replacements but is not mandated by law and may incur charges if outside warranty.
- VIN scope: recalls may cover a subset of model years or VIN ranges; a vehicle must be on the recall list to receive a free remedy.
Understanding these distinctions helps owners know when a fix is required by law versus when a recommended service is optional or warranty-based.
How to verify recall status for your Tacoma
To verify recall status for your specific vehicle, use these steps. The steps below help you confirm whether a transmission-related issue or any other safety concern is currently covered for your Tacoma.
- Locate your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the driver-side dash panel or inside the driver’s door jamb and have it handy.
- Use the NHTSA recall lookup by VIN at SaferCar.gov to see all open recalls associated with your vehicle.
- Visit the official Toyota Owners website and enter your VIN to check for recall notices and warranty campaigns from the manufacturer.
- Call or visit your local Toyota dealership and provide your VIN to have a service advisor check the recall database and confirm any open campaigns.
By following these steps, you’ll know whether your Tacoma has any active recalls, including anything related to the transmission, and what action is required.
What to do if you think you have a transmission problem
If you experience unusual transmission behavior—such as hard shifts, slipping, harsh engagement, or lag before a gear change—take a methodical approach to verify whether a recall or other campaign applies and to protect yourself legally and financially.
- Document symptoms with dates, mileage, and any related notifications or service visits.
- Check for open recalls using your VIN (NHTSA and Toyota databases) and confirm with your dealer whether a transmission issue is covered.
- Schedule a factory-trained technician inspection at an authorized Toyota dealership; request that the diagnosis be documented with the vehicle’s VIN in the repair orders.
- Follow through with any required corrective action if a recall or service bulletin applies; ensure you receive written confirmation of the work and costs covered.
Timely verification and dealer coordination help ensure you receive any entitled remedy and keep your vehicle operating safely.
Additional resources and how to stay informed
Staying informed about recalls requires checking official channels regularly, as new campaigns can arise after publication. Rely on primary sources for the most accurate, up-to-date information.
Key sources to monitor
Use these primary sources to stay current on Toyota Tacoma recalls and related advisories:
- NHTSA recall database – search by VIN or model to find open recalls across all manufacturers.
- Toyota Owners website – VIN-based recall and warranty campaign status directly from the manufacturer.
- Authorized Toyota dealerships – service advisors can confirm recall eligibility and schedule remedies when required.
Regular checks of these sources help ensure you aren’t missing a required recall on any component, including the transmission.
Summary
As of today, there is no widely publicized open recall specifically targeting the transmission in the latest Toyota Tacoma. Recalls are VIN-specific and can change, so owners should verify their status using the VIN on databases like NHTSA SaferCar.gov and the Toyota Owners site, and consult their local dealer for confirmation. If you notice transmission issues, document symptoms, verify recall eligibility, and pursue an official remedy if applicable. Staying proactive with VIN checks is the best way to ensure your vehicle remains safe and compliant.
How much does it cost to replace a transmission in a Toyota Tacoma?
A Toyota Tacoma transmission replacement can cost between approximately $1,800 and $7,000 or more, depending on the type of replacement (new, remanufactured, used) and labor costs. A new transmission can cost over $3,500, a remanufactured transmission typically ranges from $1,300 to $3,400, and a used transmission can be found for $800 to $1,500.
Cost breakdown
This video explains the cost of repairing an automatic transmission: 55sTalkingTechTrendsYouTube · Apr 29, 2025
| Replacement Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New | Over $3,500 |
| Remanufactured | $1,300 to $3,400 |
| Used/Salvage | $800 to $1,500 |
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_OucladfnBv2H9u8P387PSA_183';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();
Factors that influence the final cost
- Type of transmission: Automatic vs. manual, and the complexity of the specific model.
- Source of the part: Dealerships use manufacturer-recommended parts and have higher labor rates, while independent shops might use aftermarket parts and have lower rates.
- Labor: The labor portion of the replacement can range from $500 to $1,200.
- Other services: A comprehensive service may also include a transmission fluid change and filter replacement, which are much less expensive than a full replacement.
Is it worth it?
- Consider the vehicle's value. If the replacement cost is close to or higher than the vehicle's current market value, it may not be a cost-effective repair.
- Research local mechanics for a cost-effective option. Shopping around and getting quotes from different shops can help you find a lower price, especially for rebuilt or used parts.
What transmission is in the new Toyota Tacoma?
The new Toyota Tacoma has faced reports of transmission issues, primarily with the 8-speed automatic, including rough shifting and, in some cases, failure. Toyota issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for the 2024 model to address some of these failures, which involved replacing the transmission and torque converter due to debris from the manufacturing process. While the problem was resolved after a certain production batch, some owners of later 2024 and 2025 models have also reported issues. Overheating on steep inclines can be an issue, particularly if the wrong mode is used; driving in four low instead of four high is recommended for low-speed, high-incline off-roading.
This video explains the Toyota Tacoma transmission TSB and potential issues with the new models: 1mTRD JONYouTube · Sep 13, 2024
2024 and 2025 Tacoma transmission issues
- Failure/Rough Shifting: Some 8-speed automatic transmissions have experienced rough shifting and, in some instances, complete failure.
- Manufacturing Defect: The TSB addressed a manufacturing issue where debris in the transmission assembly caused failures in a specific range of 2024 models (before a certain production serial number).
- Overheating: Transmission overheating can occur on steep inclines, especially when using four high at low speeds.
- Later models: Some owners of later 2024 and 2025 models have reported similar issues, such as sluggish performance and rough shifting, even if their VIN is not covered by the initial TSB.
This video explains how to prevent overheating issues while driving the new Toyota Tacoma off-road: 1mBros FOURR SpeedYouTube · May 28, 2025
What to do
- For owners: If you experience a transmission issue, take your vehicle to a dealer. The initial TSB for 2024 models covers certain VINs with failure symptoms. Toyota has stated the problem is resolved for models produced after the affected batch.
- For off-roading: Use four low instead of four high for low-speed, high-incline driving to reduce strain on the transmission and prevent overheating.
- For potential buyers: Be aware that while the initial issue was fixed, there are ongoing reports of rough shifting and performance issues in both 2024 and 2025 models. Some owners have also reported transmission overheating during demanding off-road conditions.
Which tacomas have transmission problems?
Some 2024 Toyota Tacoma owners are reporting transmission failures to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The reported failures seem to affect both manual and automatic gearboxes, with some owners reporting failure within the first 1000 miles.
What is the new recall on Toyota Tacoma?
Toyota Recalls Tacoma Trucks Over Driveshaft Defect. Toyota recalled 5,960 Tacoma pickups from model year 2025 because a joint in their front driveshafts can fracture. In 2-wheel-drive (2WD) mode, this could make the trucks difficult to steer. In 4-wheel-drive (4WD) mode, the pickups could also move while parked.
