A commendable choice in the used space, the 2013 Toyota Tacoma has a low maintenance cost of just $509 a year. But it has a few common problems that include drivetrain, brake, and steering issues.
Key Points
- The 2013 Toyota Tacoma has six recalls, one investigation, and 108 consumer complaints, as per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- Recalls cover problems with detaching hood scoops and instances of mislabelled information stickers regarding load capacity and tire pressure.
- An ongoing investigation over failed airbags points to faulty sensors that may not deploy the passenger airbag in a crash.
- The majority of consumer complaints regard unintended acceleration, brake failure, and jammed steering.
- Many 2013 Tacoma owners also complain of rusting, whistling noises, and water seeping into the cabin.
2013 Toyota Tacoma Has Six Recalls for Problems Ranging From Engine Stall to Having the Wrong Lug Nuts
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued six recalls for the 2013 Toyota Tacoma. One of these resolves a serious engine issue, like weak valve springs that can break and cause the motor to stall while driving.
There is also a recall for incorrectly installed hood scoops. The adhesive holding down the accessory may weaken and detach from the vehicle, posing a serious threat on the road.
Two of the six recalls cover mislabeled stickers, including incorrect load capacity labels and wrong tire/pressure information. If the vehicle gets overloaded or the tires are improperly inflated, the chances of an accident occurring increases.
In another recall, certain 2013 Tacomas with 18-inch Maverick alloy wheels require different spare wheel lug nuts. These nuts aren’t provided with the truck. Using non-compliant nuts can damage the wheel and causes it to become loose.
2013 Tacoma Has One Open NHTSA Investigation Following Various Complaints of Airbag Failure
A number of 2013 Tacoma owners have also reported that their airbags did not deploy after a collision. The NHTSA launched an investigation into the matter in 2019. It is still open, and the problem has been traced to faulty airbag sensors that determine whether airbag deployment is required.
Electrical overstress of a component that monitors crash signals is suspected to be the cause. Two serious accidents have been traced to this issue, one being fatal. Efforts are underway to deduce why this electrical surge occurs.
Majority of Consumer Complaints are for 2013 Toyota Tacoma’s Powertrain Issues, Jammed Steering, and Unusual Noises
The powertrain is the source of many of the 2013 Toyota Tacoma’s problems. There are instances of unwanted acceleration and deceleration. Owners have also reported sluggish and sudden acceleration from a standstill.
All of these problems have been traced to a poorly designed driveshaft that causes an abrupt release of pressure, which is why there’s a delay in motor power. The driveshaft issue also led to many owners complaining of vibration or shudder when accelerating.
Another common complaint about the 2013 Tacoma is jammed steering. Owners mention experiencing very stiff steering and loss of power steering assist when making turns. This is due to rusting of the universal joint that connects the intermediate steering shaft.
Complaints of weird noises and vibrations from the steering wheel also stem from this issue. When turning, the rusted joint locks the front tires, causing ABS and traction control to intervene.
2013 Tacoma Has Numerous Build Quality Problems, Including Headlights that Can Melt
Rusting of the frame and step bumper have been pointed out by many 2013 Tacoma owners. There are also complaints of power windows not working and the heat shields of the exhaust manifold falling off. Owners complain of water seeping into the cabin from the front windshield because of wiper blade cowls getting loose over time.
There are loads of complaints regarding malfunctioning electricals in the 2013 Tacoma. The most-reported ones are starter failure causing the vehicle to not crank, and popping of the “Check Engine” light, possibly due to a failed air-flow sensor. Other electrical issues include faulty air-conditioners, failing electric door locks, malfunctioning instrument clusters, and bad horns.
Another peculiar problem reported by over 200 owners is the headlight lens melting. The amber front running lights embedded in the headlight assembly overheat and crack, or even melts the lens. Replacing the whole headlight assembly is the only solution.
Despite a Few Problems, the 2013 Toyota Tacoma is a Capable and Reliable Pick-up Truck
Toyota is known for being reliable, and the 2013 Tacoma is no different. Toyota sold close to 160,000 units of the Tacoma in 2013, and the number diagnosed with problems is very low compared to rivals.
With excellent reliability ratings, an efficient powertrain, and a low cost of repairs, the 2013 Tacoma is a solid midsize pickup.
Photos: Toyota
