Who manufactures Toyota Tacoma?

The Toyota Tacoma is manufactured by Toyota Motor Corporation, with assembly for the North American market concentrated at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas (TMMTX) in San Antonio, Texas. The truck has been a core model in Toyota's midsize pickup lineup since its launch in 1995.

This article explains the manufacturer behind the Tacoma, where it is built, and how Toyota's North American manufacturing network supports its production and delivery to customers.

Manufacturer and corporate context

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) is a multinational automaker based in Japan. In North America, Toyota's operations are coordinated through Toyota Motor North America (TMNA), which oversees manufacturing plants, distributors, and related operations. The Tacoma is a product of Toyota's pickup truck family under TMNA's purview, built to meet demand in the United States, Canada, and select markets.

Primary assembly location

The Tacoma's primary assembly site for the North American market is a single, large plant in the United States:

• Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas (TMMTX) — San Antonio, Texas, USA; production site for current-generation Tacoma pickups destined for North American customers.

The Tacoma benefits from Toyota's integrated North American manufacturing network, which sources components from regional suppliers and uses standardized production processes to ensure quality and efficiency.

Production scope and markets

The Tacoma is primarily a model for the North American market, with most units sold in the United States and Canada. Toyota's strategy for the Tacoma emphasizes this regional focus, while the company also offers other pickup models (such as the Hilux in some markets) in different regions. For U.S. and Canadian customers, TMMTX remains the central production hub.

Summary

In short, Toyota Motor Corporation manufactures the Toyota Tacoma, with the North American production anchored at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas in San Antonio. The model reflects Toyota's emphasis on regional production efficiency and a strong dealer network in the United States and Canada.

What is the most common problem with the Toyota Tacoma?

Common problems with Toyota Tacomas include issues with rust on older models, particularly the frame, and various transmission problems in both manual and automatic transmissions. Other frequent complaints involve lower ball joint failure in certain model years, premature brake wear, and electrical issues with headlights and other components.
 
This video discusses common problems with the Toyota Tacoma, including rust and transmission issues: 56sFuel ForceYouTube · Sep 7, 2024
Common problems by category
Frame and body

• Rust: Older models (especially first and second generations) are prone to frame rust due to past manufacturers using low-grade steel, particularly affecting those sold in areas with road salt. 
• Paint: Some models have experienced peeling paint issues. 

Drivetrain

• Transmission: Shuddering, hard shifting, and early clutch failure have been reported in various model years, with a high-mileage automatic transmission issue also noted. 
• Lower Ball Joints: Premature failure of the lower ball joints was a known issue affecting models from 1995-2007, leading to a recall for some 2001-2004 models. 
• U-joints: Worn or improperly phased U-joints can cause vibration. 
• Differential Actuator: The four-wheel-drive differential actuator can get jammed if not used regularly. 

Brakes

• Premature Wear: Some owners report the need for frequent brake pad and rotor replacement.
• Other issues: Complaints include squeaking, pulsation, and master cylinder or caliper problems. 

Electrical and lighting

• Headlights: Early second-generation models had issues with the headlight lenses, which could crack or distort. 
• MAF Sensor: The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is susceptible to dirt accumulation, leading to poor performance in models from 1996 to 2013. 
• Newer models: Some newer models have had issues with infotainment screens, backup cameras, and alert systems. 

Engine

• Oil leaks: Early models of the 2TR-FE engine can develop an oil leak from the crankshaft seal on the front timing cover. 
• Engine codes: Some engines have experienced stalling or knocking, and excessive oil consumption has been reported. 

How to avoid these problems

• Inspect for rust: Before buying a used Tacoma, thoroughly inspect the frame and undercarriage for rust, especially if it was originally sold in a humid or salty climate. 
• Check maintenance records: A well-maintained vehicle is less likely to have these issues. Pay attention to records for oil and transmission fluid changes. 
• Test drive thoroughly: When test driving, pay close attention to how the truck shifts, any vibrations, steering feel, and any unusual noises. 
• Be cautious with newer models: Some newer models have been noted for initial technological issues, so it is advisable to check for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to the specific model year. 

Which Toyota factory makes Tacomas?

Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Baja California
Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Baja California (TMMBC) in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico: This plant has been a cornerstone of Tacoma production for many years, assembling complete vehicles since 2005.

Are all tacomas built in Mexico?

The Toyota Tacoma is built in Mexico. One plant is located in Tijuana and has been producing Toyota trucks for the past two decades. The other plant has been open since 2019 and is located in Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato.

What year of Tacoma to stay away from?

Years to avoid for the Toyota Tacoma include 2016–2017, which had significant transmission, engine, and infotainment issues, and several years from the early to mid-2000s, specifically 2006–2009, which are known for major frame rust, transmission problems, and other reliability concerns. 
This video explains some common problems to look out for when buying a used Toyota Tacoma, including issues with second and third generation models: 1mYourCarAngelYouTube · Jul 13, 2024
2016–2017 

• Third-generation introduction: These were the first two years of the third generation, and they came with significant problems. 
• Transmission: Both years had complaints about rough shifting, slipping, and overall transmission failure. 
• Engine: Some owners reported engine stalling and excessive oil consumption. 
• Infotainment: The 2016 model, in particular, was criticized for frequent infotainment system issues like crashes and connectivity problems. 

2006–2009 

• Second-generation issues: This period is known for major reliability problems. 
• Frame rust: Significant frame rust was a widespread issue, leading to costly repairs and replacements, especially in 2006–2009 models. 
• Transmission: Manual transmission problems, such as clutch failure and a sticking clutch pedal, were common. 
• Other issues: These years also saw problems with paint, engine oil consumption, and steering. 

Other years with potential issues

• 2000–2004: These years also had complaints, particularly regarding frame rust. 
• 2011–2012: Reports include defective headlights and drivetrain vibrations. 
• 2019: A recall affected the fuel pump, and some engines experienced knocking sounds or excessive oil consumption. 

This video discusses common issues with second-generation Toyota Tacomas, such as frame rust: 31sCanadian GearheadYouTube · Apr 18, 2024