What year are Toyota tundras having engine problems?
There isn’t one year that’s universally affected; engine problems have appeared across several Tundra model years.
To understand the question in more detail, this report examines reported engine issues by generation, how to verify recalls, and practical steps for owners who suspect a problem. It focuses on the broader patterns across the Tundra lineup, including the older 5.7L V8 era and the newer powertrain options, while emphasizing verification through official recall channels and professional diagnostics.
Patterns by Tundra generation
Overview of reported issues by generation. Note that issues vary by engine and maintenance history, and not every vehicle is affected.
- Older Tundras with the 5.7L i-FORCE V8 (produced through various 2007–2023 configurations) have had isolated reports of oil leaks around valve covers and valve train components, as well as occasional higher oil consumption in some engines. These concerns have led to service bulletins but did not indicate a broad recall covering all vehicles.
- Newer Tundras (2022–present) use redesigned powertrains (including the i-FORCE V6 family and hybrid variants). Public complaints about engine reliability are comparatively fewer and often tied to specific issues such as software calibration or sensor-related glitches, rather than widespread engine failures. Toyota has issued updates and targeted recalls as needed.
In short, problems are not confined to a single year and depend on the engine variant and maintenance history.
How to check for recalls and service bulletins specific to your year
Before checking lists, this section explains how to verify the status of your own vehicle and model year’s recalls or service actions. This helps you determine if engine-related issues are covered and what actions to take.
- Gather your VIN and confirm the exact model year, trim, and engine type (for example, 5.7L V8 or a hybrid i-FORCE MAX).
- Visit official sources: the NHTSA recall database and Toyota’s official recall/benefit pages to search by VIN.
- Review service bulletins from Toyota or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that mention engine, fuel, or powertrain concerns for your year and engine.
- Consult a trusted Toyota dealer or qualified shop for a diagnostic if you notice symptoms (oil leaks, engine noise, loss of power, misfires, Check Engine Light).
Understanding recall status by year helps you know whether an issue is a broad safety/engine fault or a service bulletin specific to a subset of vehicles.
What to do if you suspect an engine problem
These steps are practical for owners who believe their Tundra has an engine problem, regardless of year or engine variant.
- Document symptoms, mileage, maintenance history, and any error codes or dashboard warnings.
- Check for open recalls or service campaigns related to your year and engine type using VIN search tools.
- Schedule a diagnostic with a Toyota dealer or qualified shop; ask for a recall/service bulletin repair if applicable.
- Ask about warranty coverage, as engine-related defects can be covered under powertrain warranties or extended service plans if eligible.
Proactive checks and timely service can prevent minor issues from developing into major engine problems, especially in older vehicles.
Summary
There is no single “problem year” for the Toyota Tundra. Engine issues have appeared across multiple model years and depend on the engine family, maintenance history, and use. Owners should verify recalls and service bulletins for their exact year and engine, and seek prompt diagnostic and repair if symptoms arise. Regular maintenance and staying informed about official recalls are the best defenses against engine problems in any Tundra.
Summary: For owners and prospective buyers, the key is to verify recall status by vehicle VIN, understand the engine configuration, and pursue professional diagnostics if any engine symptoms appear. This approach helps identify whether problems are year-specific or isolated to individual vehicles.
What year Toyota Tundra has engine problems?
2025 Tundras have reported engine failures, everyone was hoping this issue was behind us but it seems it is not. 2023-2024 Tundras, many are still failing and are not included in the recall. This should be changed, Toyota should provide crate engines to these customers or some sort of extended warranty.
What year did tundras have the engine recall?
The recent Toyota Tundra recall with code 24TA07 only affects model years 2022 and 2023. If you believe this recall applies to you but have not yet received an official notice from the automaker, sit tight for now; Toyota will be in touch when a concrete answer is available for your vehicle identification number (VIN).
What is the best year and engine Tundra?
The best years to buy a used Toyota Tundra fall between 2014 and 2021. These years have a series of proven V8 engines and more modern interiors than the older models. Those seeking advanced driver assist systems like forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control will want a 2018 or newer model.
Which year to avoid Toyota Tundra?
While the second-generation Toyota Tundra typically has good reliability ratings, CarComplaints.com rates the 2012 the worst model year, due to engine problems. Another year to avoid includes the first model year of the second generation (2007), for which there are also a lot of complaints.
