2016 Toyota Tundra Safety Report
2016 Toyota Tundra: Strong Crash Ratings, but Significant Steering, Electrical, and Structural Recalls and Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Toyota Tundra
Reliability Score
The 2016 Toyota Tundra receives a reliability score of 55 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 2016 Toyota Tundra
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Toyota Tundra:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Steering Failure/Leak NHTSA complaints and two recalls (STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM) indicate a risk of power steering fluid leaks leading to sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing crash risk. Multiple complaints describe sudden steering loss while driving. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Headlights Malfunctioning With Turn Signals Several complaints detail headlights, taillights, and dash lights turning off intermittently when turn signals are engaged, particularly at night and in colder temperatures, posing a severe visibility hazard. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Integrated Trailer Brake Controller Failure Complaints indicate the factory trailer brake controller may fail to supply electronic braking or be unrecognized by the vehicle, creating a safety risk when towing. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Frame Rust One complaint specifically mentions extreme frame rust on a 2016 Tundra with 71,000 miles, raising concerns about structural integrity. |
High | Occasional | 70000-71000 miles |
| Passenger Knee Air Bag Module Bolts A recall addresses incorrect bolts used for the passenger knee air bag module, which could loosen over time and affect airbag performance, increasing injury risk. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
| Accessory Wheel Lug Nut Failure A recall for Southeast Toyota accessory 20-inch Rockstar wheels warns that lug nuts can crack and detach, potentially causing wheels to separate from the vehicle. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Toyota Tundra:
23 complaints, including issues with the integrated trailer brake controller not working or providing insufficient power.
16 complaints, including severe frame rust and the hood bulge detaching at highway speeds.
12 complaints, with a notable pattern of headlights and other lights turning off when turn signals are used.
9 complaints, primarily related to moisture inside headlamp assemblies and the intermittent headlight shut-off issue.
5 complaints, specifically detailing sudden loss of power steering assist due to leaks, aligning with recall issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Toyota Tundra
Is the 2016 Toyota Tundra safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 Toyota Tundra has an overall 4-star safety rating, with 5 stars in side crash tests. However, it has 6 recalls and 115 complaints, including 3 injuries and 2 crashes. Significant concerns include power steering failures, electrical issues causing headlights to turn off, and potential structural problems like frame rust and detaching hood components. While crash test performance is generally good, real-world reliability and specific component failures are notable safety concerns.
What are common problems with the 2016 Toyota Tundra?
The most reported issues for the 2016 Toyota Tundra are related to SERVICE BRAKES (23 complaints), STRUCTURE (16 complaints), and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12 complaints). Specific common problems include integrated trailer brake controller malfunctions, severe frame rust, the hood bulge detaching, and headlights intermittently turning off when using turn signals. Power steering failures due to leaks are also a significant concern, addressed by two recalls.
Are there any recalls for the 2016 Toyota Tundra?
Yes, the 2016 Toyota Tundra has 6 recalls. These include recalls for the power steering gear assembly (two separate recalls), incorrect bolts for the passenger knee airbag module, lug nuts on accessory 20-inch Rockstar wheels, resin rear step bumper brackets, and an incorrect load carrying capacity label.
How does the 2016 Toyota Tundra perform in crash tests?
The 2016 Toyota Tundra received an overall 4-star safety rating from NHTSA. It scored 4 stars for frontal crash, an excellent 5 stars for side crash, and 3 stars for rollover resistance.
Should I be concerned about the steering on a 2016 Toyota Tundra?
Yes, there is a significant concern regarding the steering system. NHTSA complaints and two recalls specifically address the power steering gear assembly, citing potential oil leaks that can lead to a sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash. Several owners have reported experiencing sudden steering loss.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the numerous recalls and complaints regarding critical components like steering and electrical systems, prospective buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially focusing on power steering leaks, electrical system functionality (headlights), and frame condition, and ensure all recalls have been addressed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Toyota Tundra
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Toyota Tundra. The data includes 115 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 6 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 3 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Toyota Tundra 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 3 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.