Toyota Tacoma (3rd Gen) Buyer's Guide: Common Problems and Reliability (2016-2023)
Toyota · Tacoma · 3rd gen · 2016–2023
Complete used buyer's guide for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma 3rd gen. Covers transmission gear hunting, axle groan, frame rust, third brake light leaks, air injection pump failure, pricing, and which model year to buy.
Mirko7 min read
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The 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma (3rd generation) carries a strong reliability reputation inherited from its predecessors, but it introduces its own set of documented flaws. The 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) and 2.7L I4 (2TR-FE) are generally durable, but the 6-speed automatic transmission exhibits persistent gear hunting on highway grades that degrades the driving experience. Understanding these issues is essential to buying a 3rd gen Tacoma that lives up to the Toyota reputation.
Generation Overview
Production spanned 2016 to 2023, offered in Access Cab, Double Cab, and four bed lengths. Engine choices: 2.7L I4 (159 hp) in base models and 3.5L V6 (278 hp) in most trims. A 6-speed automatic was standard on V6 and optional on I4; a 6-speed manual was available on certain trims through 2022. Mid-cycle updates in 2020 brought revised front styling, upgraded infotainment (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), and improved safety tech. The 3rd gen is lighter than the 2nd but still body-on-frame, retaining off-road capability. Trims include SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro.
Pricing Guide
Here is what you can expect to pay for a 3rd gen Tacoma in 2026: 2016-2017: $20,000-$28,000 (60,000-100,000 miles) 2018-2019: $25,000-$33,000 (40,000-80,000 miles) 2020-2023: $30,000-$42,000 (15,000-50,000 miles)
TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models command significant premiums ($5,000-12,000 over base). Double Cab is the most desirable configuration. The 2020+ models with Apple CarPlay are generally preferred. Tacomas hold their value exceptionally well — expect to pay a premium for any well-maintained example.
Known Issues
Transmission Gear Hunting (6-Speed Automatic)
The 6-speed automatic transmission frequently hunts between gears on moderate highway grades, often dropping from 6th to 4th or 5th and holding high RPM for extended periods. This behavior is a software calibration issue, not mechanical failure, but it causes driver annoyance and means the engine runs at higher RPM than necessary. Severity: Low (annoyance) to Medium if towing or sustained grade driving. What to watch for: persistent downshifting at 60-70 mph on 2-4% grades without throttle input. Aftermarket tuning (OV Tune, KDMax) can significantly improve this behavior for $500-800.
Axle Groan (Low-Speed Turning)
A pronounced groan or clunk from the rear axle during low-speed turns, especially when turning into parking spots or tight u-turns. Caused by insufficient lubrication or improper differential setup. Toyota issued several TSBs for fluid flush and additive. Affects all 2016-2023 models, more common on cold starts. Severity: Low (noise) to Medium if left untreated (can accelerate wear). What to watch for: a low-frequency moan when turning sharply at under 10 mph. Differential fluid change with friction modifier ($100-200) typically resolves it.
Frame Rust (Earlier Years)
While Toyota added anti-corrosion measures for the 3rd gen, 2016-2017 models show surface rust on frame welds and crossmembers, continuing the corrosion pattern from the 2nd gen recall. Toyota issued a TSB for rust inspection and treatment. Severity: Medium (structural risk if rust deepens over time). What to watch for: flaking rust on the rear frame rails near the spare tire hanger. Surface rust can be treated; deep scaling rust near suspension mounting points is a concern. A professional underbody inspection is recommended for 2016-2017 models from salt-belt states.
Third Brake Light Leak
A cracked plastic gasket on the high-mounted third brake light allows water to enter the cab, soaking the headliner and rear interior. The leak can damage electronics and cause mold. Toyota revised the gasket in later production, but no formal recall. Affects all years, but most complaints on 2016-2019. Severity: Medium (water damage to interior electronics). What to watch for: water stains on headliner above rear seats or musty smell after rain. Replacement gasket costs $20-50 and is an easy DIY fix.
Infotainment Lag and Toyota Entune
The Entune infotainment system is slow to respond, with frequent lag when switching screens, loading navigation, or connecting Bluetooth. Early models lack Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (added in 2020). Severity: Low (functionality, not reliability). What to watch for: 5-10 second delays after tapping touchscreen. The 2020+ systems with CarPlay are a meaningful upgrade.
Air Injection Pump Failure
The secondary air injection system pump can fail, triggering a check engine light and reduced performance. The pump is expensive (parts and labor $800- $1,200) and prone to failure in cold climates. Toyota extended warranty coverage on some models. Affects 3.5L V6 models; less common on 2.7L I4. Severity: Medium-High. What to watch for: P2440, P2442, P2443 codes after cold start. If the check engine light is on with these codes, budget for pump replacement.
Sub-Variant Issues
2016-2017 Frame Rust
As noted above, 2016-2017 models are more susceptible to frame rust due to manufacturing variation in protective coatings. Toyota's corrosion warranty covers 5 years/unlimited miles, but inspections after that are owner responsibility. If you're looking at a 2016 or 2017 Tacoma, budget for a professional underbody inspection and potential rust treatment ($300-800).
TRD Pro Fox Shocks
TRD Pro models with Fox internal bypass shocks are excellent off-road but require rebuilding every 50,000 miles ($400-800 per shock). Verify that the shocks have been serviced if the mileage is high. Leaking shocks are a negotiating point.
Which Model Year to Buy
The 2020-2023 models (post-refresh) are the best choice. The 2020 refresh brought Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, improved infotainment, updated safety tech, and revised front styling. The transmission hunting issue was partially addressed in software updates. For the best value, a 2020-2021 TRD Off-Road Double Cab with the V6 is the sweet spot of the 3rd generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 3rd gen Tacoma reliable?
Yes, overall. The 3rd gen Tacoma is reliable by truck standards, but it's not as bulletproof as the legendary 2nd gen. The main issues (gear hunting, axle groan, frame rust, third brake light leaks) are more annoyances than mechanical failures. The engine and drivetrain are fundamentally robust. A well-maintained 3rd gen Tacoma should easily reach 250,000+ miles.
Is the transmission gear hunting a serious problem?
No — it's a software calibration issue, not a mechanical failure. The transmission isn't being damaged by the gear hunting, but it makes for an annoying driving experience on highway grades. Aftermarket tuning (OV Tune or KDMax) resolves the issue completely for $500-800 and is highly recommended by the Tacoma community. Many owners consider it essential.
Should I buy the 4-cylinder or V6 Tacoma?
The V6 is strongly recommended. The 2.7L 4-cylinder is reliable but underpowered for the heavy Tacoma, especially on highways and when carrying any load. The V6 provides adequate power and only slightly worse fuel economy (18-21 MPG vs 19-22 MPG). The V6 also has better resale value and towing capacity (6,800 lbs vs 3,500 lbs).
What should I check on a test drive?
Drive at highway speeds (60-70 mph) on a moderate grade and feel for transmission gear hunting. Do low-speed tight turns and listen for axle groan. Check the rear frame rails for rust (2016-2017 models). Check the headliner behind the third brake light for water stains. Test the infotainment system responsiveness. If the check engine light is on, check for air injection codes.
This page covers what's documented about the 3rd generation Tacoma generally. The truck you're looking at has its own history — its own mileage, service gaps, and previous owners. A Squeezed report pulls the exact risk profile for your specific year, trim, and spec. Run a report.
FAQ
What are the most common problems with the Toyota Tacoma (3rd Gen) (2016-2023)?
Air injection pump failure is the most serious mechanical issue reported. Transmission gear hunting on the 6-speed automatic, axle groan during low-speed turns, and frame rust on earlier trucks are the other known concerns.
Is the Toyota Tacoma (3rd Gen) (2016-2023) reliable?
Yes, in line with Toyota truck's typical reputation. Known issues sit at Low to Medium severity outside of air injection pump failure, and frame rust is more a regional concern (salt-belt states) than a universal one.
Are there Toyota Tacoma (3rd Gen) years to avoid?
Frame rust concerns are more pronounced on earlier production (2016-2018) trucks, especially those that spent time in salt-belt regions. No specific year is flagged as worse for the air injection pump or transmission issues.