NHTSA FEDERAL EVIDENCE AUDITAudited: 2026-08-24

2019 Toyota Tacoma Common Problems & Defect Telemetry

Authoritative defect intelligence synthesized from 213 verified NHTSA owner complaints, 4 federal safety recalls, and interquartile failure mileage telemetry.

Data Grade: HIGH51 Odometer Verified EntriesMethodology
Executive AI Defect Summary

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma receives a 5.8/10 MazicBay Reliability Index based on 213 verified NHTSA federal complaints and 4 safety recalls. The primary reported failure mode is Service Brakes, ABS Actuator & Master Cylinder Reports with a median failure point at 5,000 miles (IQR: 2,70026,500 mi). Out-of-warranty repairs benchmark at $350 – $1,100 .

Toyota Tacoma PlatformToyota Tacoma Series
DLC Port: Left kick panel beneath dashboard trim

*Representative vehicle platform imagery. Body styling varies across generations.

MazicBay Reliability Index
5.8 / 10

8.9 complaints / 10k sold

NHTSA Owner Complaints
213

Verified US federal records

Safety Severity Grade
Critical Risk

Crash, fire & stall audit

Federal Safety Recalls
4

4 Active / Free Remedies

Switch Tacoma Model Year (2014–2025)
Defect Clustering

Top Reported Problem Clusters (7)

Ranked by NHTSA Complaint Frequency
#1 BRAKING SYSTEM & ABSCritical Severity85% Match Confidence

Service Brakes, ABS Actuator & Master Cylinder Reports

69
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):5,000 milesIQR: 2,70026,500 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$350 – $1,100 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Spongy or hard brake pedal travel
  • ABS / Brake warning light illuminated
  • Extended stopping distance / pedal vibration
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11756579 • Filed: 08/12/2026Odometer: 40,000 mi

Brake master cylinder failed on 2019 Toyota Tacoma. Vehicle had ~40000 miles at time of failure summer of 2025. Out of pocket expense was over $2000.00.

ODI #11753935 • Filed: 07/31/2026

Brake pedal started sinking to the floor. Inspected and no fluid leaks present. If brake pedal is pumped, it will build pressure. Then the check brake system light comes on. That is a sign of brake master cylinder failure.

ODI #11737419 • Filed: 05/12/2026Odometer: 60,000 mi

Brake fluid is leaking down the brake pedal and onto the driver's side floormat. Car has less than 60,000 miles and is 7 years old.

#2 ENGINE & COOLINGCritical Severity74% Match Confidence

Engine Stalling, Oil Consumption & Cooling Defect Reports

67
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):40,000 milesIQR: 6,90060,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$950 – $3,200 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Engine sudden stall / hesitation while driving
  • Abnormal oil burning / consumption
  • Check Engine Light (MIL) flashing
  • Engine overheating / coolant loss
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11756579 • Filed: 08/12/2026Odometer: 40,000 mi

Brake master cylinder failed on 2019 Toyota Tacoma. Vehicle had ~40000 miles at time of failure summer of 2025. Out of pocket expense was over $2000.00.

ODI #11753935 • Filed: 07/31/2026

Brake pedal started sinking to the floor. Inspected and no fluid leaks present. If brake pedal is pumped, it will build pressure. Then the check brake system light comes on. That is a sign of brake master cylinder failure.

ODI #11716829 • Filed: 02/09/2026

The contact owns a 2019 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal clattering sound coming from the engine, with a misfire coming from the engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was restarted...

#3 FUEL SYSTEM & INJECTIONCritical Severity73% Match Confidence

Fuel Pump Pressure Loss & Fuel Delivery Defect Reports

50
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):26,000 milesIQR: 13,77164,500 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$650 – $1,250 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Sudden loss of propulsion power at highway speeds
  • Extended engine cranking / failure to restart
  • Fuel odor near fuel tank / engine bay
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11736679 • Filed: 05/08/2026

low pressure fuel pump in fuel tank failed. This part was already repaired from previous recall and failed again. Error code P0087. Vehicle shuttered and stopped in traffic. Broken bits of fuel pump were left in gas tank.

ODI #11716829 • Filed: 02/09/2026

The contact owns a 2019 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal clattering sound coming from the engine, with a misfire coming from the engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was restarted...

ODI #11698872 • Filed: 11/12/2025Odometer: 16,000 mi

The engine in my 2019 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off Road suffered internal damage that appears linked to Toyota’s low-pressure fuel pump recall (issued 10/28/2020, repaired 581 days later on 6/10/2022). While out on personal lease, the truck was driven over 16,000 miles with the defec...

#4 TRANSMISSION & DRIVETRAINCritical Severity86% Match Confidence

Transmission Hesitation, Hard Shifting & Slipping Reports

48
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):4,000 milesIQR: 2,92562,500 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$1,400 – $3,800 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Hard gear shifts / delayed engagement into Drive/Reverse
  • Transmission shudder / jerking under acceleration
  • Transmission slipping between gears
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11621816 • Filed: 10/24/2024

The transmission cooling line in my 2019 Toyota Tacoma was never installed by an authorized repair shop following an accident. This critical component failure led to the transmission failing just 1.5 hours after I retrieved the vehicle from the shop. My safety was compromised,...

ODI #11617943 • Filed: 10/03/2024

the differential skid plate was manufactured in a way that one of the brackets make contact with the fuel tank of the truck. It rubs and compromises the integrity of the tank. Possibly leading to a puncture and leak. I brought it to the attention of the manufacturer, and they ...

ODI #11560009 • Filed: 12/13/2023

The contact owns a 2019 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the vehicle was idling abnormally rough. After shifting into driving and releasing the brake pedal with his foot off the accelerator pedal, the vehicle briefly independently accelerated....

#5 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM & BATTERYCritical Severity86% Match Confidence

Electrical Parasitic Drain, Infotainment & Harness Reports

24
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):110,000 milesIQR: 90,000130,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$280 – $850 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Out-of-Pocket / TSB RemedyNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Unexplained battery drain after sitting overnight
  • Infotainment display / instrument cluster blackouts
  • Accessory malfunction / alternator fault warnings
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11757765 • Filed: 08/18/2026

The contact owns a 2019 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the A/C, and the cool air setting was inoperative. No warning lights were illuminated. A vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed;...

ODI #11691503 • Filed: 10/05/2025

Water leaked through the third brake light assembly into the cab roof, soaking the ceiling, seats, and carpet. This caused extensive mold growth and electrical corrosion near the control modules. The affected systems include the third brake light seal, cab roof, interior mater...

ODI #11670295 • Filed: 06/30/2025

Truck has 33,XXX miles. Was driving and the fuel gauge needle dropped to E. Dash screen stated 225 miles till empty please refuel. I tried turning it on and off, no change. Filled the gas tank numerous times, no change. Needle remains on E with warning message to please refuel...

#6 STEERING & SUSPENSIONCritical Severity73% Match Confidence

Electric Power Steering Assist & Suspension Noise Reports

23
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):34,651 milesIQR: 26,25061,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$450 – $1,400 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • Sudden loss of electric power steering assist
  • Steering wheel pull or highway wander
  • Clunking / knocking noise over bumps
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11750645 • Filed: 07/15/2026

Lower driver door locking bracket corrosion. Beyond surface corrosion. Been monitoring. Passenger side bracket is free of corrosion. Base of corroded bracket has heavy rust. Appears this part was not plated or treated for rustproofing. Appears this locking bracket might fail o...

ODI #11737733 • Filed: 05/14/2026

On 2 seperate occassions I had a wheel on my 2019 Toyota Tacoma come off while driving. Both after Toyota signed off on work orders and bill of sales showing they accessed the wheels. On 4/11/26 the front left drivers side fell off. Upon picking it up after repairs on April 28...

ODI #11733180 • Filed: 04/23/2026

the left side inner and outer tie rods pulled apart at threads at jam nut. The threads approx 2 to three inches of threads were 100% rotted. The jam nut showed no sign of being loose. It did not UNTHREAD. No noise or any indication ever of an issue. It happened at 5:15 am. It ...

#7 AIRBAGS & SAFETY RESTRAINTSCritical Severity69% Match Confidence

Airbag Occupant Detection & Inflator Defect Reports

8
Federal Complaints
Failure Mileage (Median):5,000 milesIQR: 5,0005,000 mi
Estimated Repair Cost:$400 – $1,200 MazicBay Repair Intelligence Model
Recall Status:Under Investigation / Recall AuditNHTSA Campaign Audit
Reported Defect Symptoms
  • SRS Airbag warning lamp illuminated
  • Passenger occupant classification sensor failure
  • Seat belt retractor lockup
Potentially Associated OBD-II Codes

Correlated via MazicBay Diagnostic Engine (not NHTSA verified fact).

Sample Verified NHTSA Evidence Records (3)
ODI #11642741 • Filed: 02/14/2025

The contact owned a 2019 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated while driving at 60MPH; that he was cut off while on a turnpike and to avoid a collision the contact turned into and went over a guard rail, crashing into an embankment. The side curtain air bags deployed however, the ...

ODI #11506107 • Filed: 02/07/2023

Passenger Side Back Seat Seatbelt ripped under normal wear and tear.

ODI #11414204 • Filed: 04/27/2021

THE PASSENGER SEATBELT LIGHT KEEPS BLINKING WHEN SEAT BELT IS BUCKLED AND IT SAYS PASSENGER AIRBAG IS OFF WHILE THERE IS SOMEONE IN THERE AND BUCKLED UP. THIS HAPPENS WHEN PARKED OR DRIVING, WE HAVE UNHOOKED THE BATTERY TO TRY TO RESET IT. NO LUCK. I AM AFRAID IF WE WERE TO GE...

Safety Enforcement

Official NHTSA Safety Recalls (4)

100% Free Dealer Repair
NHTSA Campaign #20V682000Reported: 04/11/2020

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Safety Consequence: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.
NHTSA Campaign #20V012000Reported: 13/01/2020

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020. On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

Safety Consequence: If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began May 4, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB02 and 20TA02 for Toyota vehicles and 20LB01 and 20LA01 for Lexus vehicles.
NHTSA Campaign #18V888000Reported: 13/12/2018

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER

Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Toyota Tacoma vehicles. Improper machining of the brake master cylinder may result in internal damage of one of the seals, affecting brake performance.

Safety Consequence: Reduced brake performance can lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake master cylinder, free of charge. The recall began January 28, 2019. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are J16/J06.
NHTSA Campaign #19V244000Reported: 27/03/2019

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Summary: Gulf States Toyota (GST) is recalling certain 2019 C-HR, 4Runner, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Prius, RAV4, Sequoia, Tacoma, Sienna, Tundra and Yaris vehicles. The text on the load capacity label may become illegible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

Safety Consequence: If the driver cannot read the label, they may unknowingly overload the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Manufacturer Remedy: GST will notify owners, and dealers will provide corrected load carrying capacity modification labels, free of charge. The recall began May 24, 2019. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 19R1.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist for 2019 Toyota Tacoma

Before purchasing a used 2019 Toyota Tacoma, perform the following targeted inspections based on reported federal defect patterns:

1. Cold Start & Idle Diagnostics

Scan the OBD-II port under the dash for pending freeze-frame codes (e.g. P0300 misfires, P0087 fuel rail pressure, P0420 catalytic efficiency).

2. Transmission Shift Quality Audit

Test vehicle at low-speed stop-and-go and highway merges. Check for delayed reverse engagement or gear shift shudder between 2nd and 3rd gears.

3. Federal Recall Completion Check

Verify that all 4 NHTSA safety recall campaigns have been performed by an authorized dealership using the VIN.

4. Electrical & Infotainment Drain Check

Ensure the instrument cluster, center screen, and auxiliary charging ports operate with stable 12.0V–14.4V alternator voltage.

Frequently Answered Questions

Defect & Reliability Q&A: 2019 Toyota Tacoma

Is the 2019 Toyota Tacoma a reliable used car?

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma earns a 5.8/10 MazicBay Reliability Index based on 213 federal owner reports. Vehicles maintained under factory service schedules exhibit strong longevity past 150,000 miles.

What is the most frequent defect reported on the 2019 Toyota Tacoma?

The leading complaint category is Service Brakes, ABS Actuator & Master Cylinder Reports, with a median failure point around 5,000 miles (IQR: 2,70026,500 mi).

Are there free recall repairs available for the 2019 Toyota Tacoma?

Yes, the NHTSA records 4 safety recall campaign(s) for this model year. All safety recalls are performed 100% free of charge by authorized franchise dealerships regardless of vehicle warranty status.