2021 Toyota Tacoma Safety Report
2021 Toyota Tacoma: Strong crash ratings, but concerning brake and powertrain complaints with no recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma
Reliability Score
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brake System Failure Brake pedal goes to the floor, loss of braking power, even after master cylinder replacement. Accounts for 8 complaints. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Coolant Leaks/Bypass Joint Failure Coolant bypass valve/joint leaking, leading to low coolant levels and potential overheating. Several complaints reported. |
Medium | Occasional | 47000-66000 miles |
| Transmission Erratic Shifting/Seeking Gear Transmission constantly seeks gears, especially 5th to 6th with cruise control, and over-revving. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Airbag Non-Deployment Airbags failed to deploy in a reported car accident. Accounts for 3 complaints related to AIR BAGS. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Engine Stalling/Loss Of Power Vehicle stalls completely while driving, including at highway speeds, with no warning. Accounts for 3 complaints related to ENGINE. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Power Steering Loss/Leaks Loss of power steering functionality and recommendations to replace power steering lines due to rust. |
High | Occasional | 117000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Toyota Tacoma:
Reports of brake pedal going to the floor, loss of braking power, and rusted brake components.
A variety of miscellaneous issues not fitting other categories, including frame paint peeling and cabin vent defects.
Issues with transmission erratic shifting, gear hunting, and potential transmission line corrosion.
Complaints related to frame paint peeling and excessive rear spring wear.
Malfunctions with the front radar system and blind spot monitoring.
Reports of airbags failing to deploy during accidents.
Issues including fuel pump noise, fuel odor, and extended cranking on cold start.
Reports of engine stalling, coolant leaks, and AC compressor failure.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Toyota Tacoma
Is the 2021 Toyota Tacoma safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma received strong crash test ratings (4-star overall, 5-star side). However, there are 71 owner complaints, including 9 crashes, 15 injuries, and 1 death, with significant concerns about brake system failures and powertrain issues. The absence of recalls for these critical safety components is notable.
What are common problems for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma are related to 'SERVICE BRAKES' (8 complaints), 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (8 complaints), and 'POWER TRAIN' (6 complaints). Specific problems include brake pedal going to the floor, coolant leaks, erratic transmission behavior, and airbag non-deployment.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma?
According to NHTSA data, there are no recalls issued for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma, despite a number of safety-critical complaints from owners.
How does the 2021 Toyota Tacoma perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma performed well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an overall 4-star safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
Have there been reports of brake failures in the 2021 Toyota Tacoma?
Yes, there are 8 complaints specifically about 'SERVICE BRAKES' for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma. Owners have reported critical issues such as the brake pedal going to the floor, loss of braking power, and rusted brake components, even after repairs.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2021 Toyota Tacoma has good crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of recurring brake and powertrain complaints, and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas, especially given the lack of recalls.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Toyota Tacoma
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma. The data includes 71 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 15 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Toyota Tacoma an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.