2021 Toyota Tacoma Safety Report
2021 Toyota Tacoma Safety and Reliability Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2021 Toyota Tacoma. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Low (0) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (71) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 9 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Service Brakes | Compare service brakes issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2023 | Compare against the 2023 Toyota Tacoma with 44 complaints and 4 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2019 | Check the 2019 Toyota Tacoma before buying across this generation. |
Toyota Tacoma Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Toyota Tacoma years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 Toyota Tacoma | 51 | 3 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2020 Toyota Tacoma | 83 | 1 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2023 Toyota Tacoma | 44 | 4 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2019 Toyota Tacoma | 205 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2024 Toyota Tacoma | 129 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2018 Toyota Tacoma | 191 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2021 Toyota Tacoma Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2021 Toyota Tacoma, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Service Brakes
8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes issues Toyota onlyUnknown Or Other
8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Toyota onlyPower Train
6 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Toyota onlyStructure
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Structure issues Toyota onlyForward Collision Avoidance
3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Forward Collision Avoidance issues Toyota onlyAir Bags
3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Air Bags issues Toyota onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma
Reliability Score
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma receives a reliability score of 5 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates below-average reliability. Significant issues have been reported by owners and should be carefully evaluated before purchase.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
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 Brakes have failed after replacement, indicating potential issues with brake components. |
Medium | Occasional | 30k-60k miles |
| Airbag Deployment Failure Airbags did not deploy during a car accident, indicating a high severity issue. |
High | Common | 0-100k miles |
| Front Radar Defect Front radar system has been recalled due to a defect where the back cover is missing, leading to frequent failures. |
Medium | Occasional | 0-100k miles |
| Forward Collision Avoidance System Failure Forward collision avoidance system has failed at 117,000 miles, requiring a costly repair. |
Medium | Occasional | 117k 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:
23% of reported issues involve the brake system.
4% of reported issues involve the airbag system.
4% of reported issues involve the front radar system.
3% of reported issues involve the forward collision avoidance system.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 5 complaints involved crashes. 5 reported injuries or fatalities.
when I push the brake pedal, it goes to the floor. I have had the brakes and master cylinder replaced. after about one month the brakes started failing again. I am going to take it back to the mechanic to have them re-evaluate the brakes. No kind of official has inspected my truck. I have been having braking issues for about a year.
There are three concerns in this write up: at 117000 miles the blind spot monitoring system has fails and will cost 300 to repair. More concerning is that it was recommended I replace the Power Steering Lines at a cost of 927 and the Transmission Lines at a cost of 797 due to severe rusting and corrosion. Its recommended before they rust through and break/leak.
FRONT RADAR RECALL- NO BACK COVER AND GOES DEFECTIVE
Vehicle was in car accident where airbags did not deploy.
When vehicle is driven at 85 mph (cruise control set) speedometer jolts. Speed must be reduced to 84 to resolve issue.
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at highway speeds, the vehicle stalled with the engine oil warning light flashing on the instrument panel. The contact stated that her husband detected a fuel odor coming from the vehicle after the failure. The driver was able to restart the vehicle and drove the vehicle to the dealer. While at the dealer ...
Heated seat stopped working after smelling a slight burning smell. I investigate and found discolored and burnt electrical connections on the heated seat wires. This happened on the driver's seat. I'm worried the same thing could happen on the passenger side.
truck is under 20 thousand miles right front brake shoes are loose and not in place. the whole brake assembly is completely rusted .brake lines are leaking.
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced extended cranking on cold start. There was no warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under Toyota Campaign Number: 23TE01(High-Pressure Fuel Pump – Low Pressure Fuel Seepage). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was no...
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving 10 MPH, after depressing the accelerator pedal and then attempting to depress the brake pedal to make a left turn, the vehicle failed to respond as intended. An independent mechanic was contacted. The contact pulled over into a church parking lot. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent m...
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that there was a coolant leak, and the coolant level in the reservoir was low. The coolant reservoir was topped off; however, the failure reoccurred. While having an oil change at Keys Toyota (5855 Van Nuys Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91401); the contact was informed about the coolant leak in the rear of the engine. The contact stated that the v...
AC compressor pressure release discharges gas. Dealer states new compressor needed. Vehicle is only 4 years old.
Transmission constantly seeking a gear usually 5th to 6th while using Cruize control. At times over-reving to near redline. End up having to manuall downshift to fourth back and fourt to drive. End up shifting more frequently that would if driving my mauual 6 speed transmission tacoma with the V6 as well.
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the fuel pump was very noisy while having a routine oil change at an independent mechanic. There was an abnormal clacking sound detected. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V682000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The vehicle was taken...
N/A
The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked at the residence, the contact raised the hood to inspect the engine and became aware that the coolant bypass valve was leaking coolant. A dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed and the contact was informed that the coolant bypass valve needed to be replaced. The vehicle was n...
1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The "coolant bypass hose/joint" (Part #: 16356-31051) located at the rear of the engine, connecting the two heads, failed. This part is made of plastic and is known to be a weak point in the 3.5L V6 (2GR-FKS) engine. The failed component is still in the vehicle and can be inspected upon request. ...
2021 Toyota Tacoma OR coolant bypass joint leaks at only 47800 miles. The cost of repair is $1490.36
When stopping vehicle (for instance, at a stop light), vehicle would stop normally when pressing the brakes, but after a few seconds, the vehicle would start forward again. The brake pedal would give way and press down further, stopping briefly before starting forward again - so I had to use the emergency brake or else vehicle would move into oncoming traffic. I consulted a mechanic, and it was ...
This vehicle stalled while driving. It would totally shut off. Once at 75 mph no warning just shut off. Had a cylinder misfire according to dealership. On 2 other occasions it shut off while driving. On those occasions I was backing up out of a driveway and driving slow on a drive. So very slow speeds. On those 2 occasions it had engine stall codes according to dealership. I filed a lemon law cl...
Showing 20 of 71 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Toyota Tacoma
Has the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA been recalled?
No, the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA has no recalls on record with NHTSA as of our latest data update.
How many complaints does the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA have?
The 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA has 71 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 9 involved crashes. 15 injuries and 1 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA?
The 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA received an overall NHTSA safety rating of good (4/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA involve service brakes (8 complaints), unknown or other (8 complaints), power train (6 complaints). Other affected components include structure, forward collision avoidance, air bags.
How many crash reports does the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA have?
There are 9 crash reports associated with the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA out of 71 total complaints (12.7% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA have?
There are no fire reports for the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA in the NHTSA database.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA?
Yes, 1 death has been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA. These are self-reported by complainants and do not imply the vehicle caused the death.
How many injuries are reported for the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA?
15 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA is acceptable with caveats. It has 71 complaints, 0 recalls, and a good (4/5) safety rating. Note: 1 death(s) have been reported. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA?
The components with the most failures on the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA are: 1. SERVICE BRAKES (8 complaints), 2. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (8 complaints), 3. POWER TRAIN (6 complaints), 4. STRUCTURE (4 complaints), 5. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (3 complaints). SERVICE BRAKES is the single most-reported problem area with 8 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA?
Be cautious of brake system failures and airbag deployment issues. Regular inspections are recommended, especially if you have driven over 100,000 miles. The 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA has 71 NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it good (4/5).
How reliable is the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA?
The 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA receives a reliability score of 5/100, indicating below-average reliability. This is based on 71 owner complaints, 0 recalls, and 9 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Brake System Failure and Airbag Deployment Failure.
What are the known issues with the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA?
Known issues with the 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA include: Brake System Failure, Airbag Deployment Failure, Front Radar Defect, Forward Collision Avoidance System Failure. These are based on patterns found across 71 NHTSA complaints.
What are the most common issues with the 2021 Toyota Tacoma?
The most common issues are brake system failures and airbag deployment problems.
Is the forward collision avoidance system reliable?
There have been reports of the forward collision avoidance system failing at 117,000 miles.
Are there any recalls for the front radar system?
Yes, the front radar system has been recalled due to a defect where the back cover is missing.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of brake system failures and airbag deployment issues. Regular inspections are recommended, especially if you have driven over 100,000 miles.
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.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16