2018 Toyota Tacoma Complaint Log

The Break booster has failed or started since the break fluid is leaking inside the cab. And other trucks from the same year as my truck did have a recall for the break master cylinder failing. My breaks could potentially go out fully and I wont be able to stop. My problem has been confirmed by my independent service center. And also there's alot of other people having the same issue online. Since the floor mats show oil stains just like how I found out I was having a issue.It hasn't been confirmed by the manufacturer but I will be taking it soon to be inspection but since a recurring issue with multiple trucks online. I wanted to report it here so the recall could be extended to other trucks from same recall year. I noticed i was having a problem when I had to press down the breaks really hard to come to a stop. Then thats when I stopped and saw the oil on the floor mats. And my truck has really low mileage for the year and its safety concern to me and being that the replacement is really expensive just the part is around 1200.

The engine in my 2018 Toyota Tacoma failed at 39000 miles and Toyota is refusing to cover the repair costs. I have records of all regularly scheduled maintenance performed and I have never done anything that would put additional stress on the engine such as off-roading or towing. This engine is defective and should be recalled. There are numerous reports online of the same issue.

Truck has strong smell of fuel in the cab

The vacuum pump. This vehicle was inspected by Dunn Tire. Yes, the vehicle is available for inspection. The safety issue that occurs is the loss of power assist to your brake system, and if not repaired, can impact the camshaft or the oiling system. (Please see attachment).

The brake actuator assembly is leaking brake fluid and is dripping onto the brake lever and onto the floorboard. This concern has been inspected and confirmed by a local Toyota dealership. This problem is a known safety recall by Toyota (Safety Recall J06).

The 3rd generation Tacomas rear cabin vents (2 vents) allow water to enter the cabin because they are not tight to the body or sealed properly. The water leaks down the back wall and forward onto the floor soaking the carpet and padding underneath. The water in the carpet/padding has yielded mildew/mold throughout (water goes all the way to the front of the truck). The water also leaks through a floor grommet into a section where the cab mount bolts are and significant rust develops. Not only is the exposure to mold a health hazard, but the corrosion/rust on the cab mount bolts is a significant structural concern. There are many online posts with this problem, and i have just recently found this on my Tacoma. My vehicle has had the 3rd brake light recall, and this issue is completely separate from that recall. Toyota has a history on these vehicles not sealing them as they should. 1. The 2 rear cabin vents fail to keep water from entering the cab. I am happy to provide the vehicle for inspection. 2. Exposure to toxic mold is a health concern. Significant structural damage to the cab mount bolts is a concern if the vehicle were to be in an accident. 3. Numerous people online have confirmed this issue, and they have indicated dealerships are well aware of the issue. I put a garden hose to the back of my truck myself and saw water entering the vehicle. 4. Vehicle has not been inspected by manufacturer, police, insurance, etc. 5. Unknown when water leak first started. In the past 2 years i have started to notice a mildew smell after a rainy day. I am happy to provide additional photos, but the internet is full of this very issue. Please see the following sites with photos/videos/descriptions of other Tacoma owners having the exact same issue. Thank you very much for your time. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The brake master cylinder seal is broken and causing brake fluid to leak into the floorboard of the cab near the brake pedal.

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that upon retrieving the Carfax report after purchasing the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy, and the vehicle seller was not the title holder. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 32,000, and the contact later discovered that the mileage was over 200,000 through the Carfax report.    

The fuel pump as stopped working the vehicle will not start and the 4x4 is showing that it is not working. The vehicle is available for inspection. Thankfully this happened while the vehicle was sitting over night but we had driven it the evening before it just stopped running. the Fuel system could have failed while we were driving anywhere. It has not been inspected by anyone else. it is sitting in our driveway and my husband has done a lot of trouble shooting as to what could be wrong and all arrows point to the fuel pump. there have been no check engine light or nothing this came out of nowhere.

The master cylinder is leaking brake fluid into the cab and is dripping behind the brake pedal. There is brake fluid in the wiring harness that goes to the brake switch as well. This is a known fire hazard from other vehicle manufacturers.

After a couple of years of owning my truck, the paint started on my hood and roof started to turn white and fade. I don’t understand why Toyota uses this type of paint that’s going to get messed up after a couple of years. Also after 4 years of owning the truck, the suspension is all messed up (never took the truck off road or driven it anywhere else but the streets and now they make noises like crazy

Third break light has started to leak inside the cab of vehicle. Causing a wet musty smell, possibly mold, and staining.

The clear coat on the exterior paint of the truck has failed. This has left the base coat paint exposed which means the metal frame is susceptible to rusting now.

On June 26, 2025, around 9:30 AM, I was driving my Tacoma on the highway at approximately 70 mph when the truck suddenly lost power. I was in the center lane and nearly got hit as I tried to exit the highway. After exiting, the engine warning light came on, and the truck eventually stalled. I was able to restart it with limited power and drove it to a nearby shop. The shop's diagnosis revealed several warning codes, and the fuel pressure was found to be only 14 psi. They recommended replacing the low-pressure fuel pump. After researching known fuel pump issues, I had the truck towed to a local Toyota dealership. The dealership confirmed the codes but couldn’t replicate the low-pressure reading after driving for about 30 miles. Because of this, they stated that it didn’t qualify for the extended recall offered by Toyota. Toyota refused to replace the pump, arguing that the recall had already been performed in 2020 and that the low pressure reading came from a non-Toyota repair shop. My response was: how can they be sure that the pump replaced under the recall wasn’t faulty as well? No answer In the end, I had no choice but to cover the repair costs myself. However, I made sure to get the old pump back from the dealership and documented its manufacturing details to support my claim moving forward.

The.truck won’t turn on. We checked it with a diagnostic tool and it was confirmed that it was the fuel pump.

Paint defect Hi, This 2018 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport 4X4 has a premium Cement Grey color. The clear coat from the paint is gone and it’s causing damage to my paint on the roof and doors of the vehicle.

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly, requiring increased effort to maneuver the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the rack and pinion. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The VIN was not available. The failure mileage was unknown 35,000.

I own a 2018 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off Road and am experiencing a minor brake fluid leak within the cab which is leaking brake fluid from above the brake pedal. An independent mechanic determined the issue is associated with the brake booster and brake master cylinder which is related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V888000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the VIN is not included in the recall. No warning lights are illuminated. The leak was noticed at approximately 87,500. Vehicle is available for inspection and not yet inspected by the manufacturer, etc. The leak is minor now but believe it will get worse.

While driving I can here a ticking sound coming from the motor and it gets worse while I pick up speed

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that upon shifting to drive and starting to accelerate, there was an abnormal sound coming from the rear passenger’s side wheel. The contact became aware that the rear passenger’s side wheel was not rotating. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the parking brake cable. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 68,000.

My 2018 Toyota Tacoma started showing a "forward collision detection system malfunction" "Contact your dealer" light came on that also indicates system is not on/functioning. I went to the dealer and was told the Millimeter Wave Radar Sensor Assembly #88210-04020 wad defective. My replacement cost and labor would be $1,543. I refused the service as I wanted to better understand the issue. I found that the exact item had fallen under a Toyota KOB recall. The same dealer had performed the recall in 2022. I believe the dealer should warranty the recalled part and service. It also appears the recall was performed incorrectly where a backing foam / seal that was to protect the sensor from moisture was installed incorrectly according to the recall recommendations.

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The vehicle was purchased via private sale via Facebook marketplace. The contact stated that while attempting to register the vehicle, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 57,000, and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 254,000.

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated while inside the vehicle, there was brake fluid leaking from above the brake pedal. Additionally, while driving, the brake pedal had to be firmly depressed to stop the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was a brake booster leak inside the cab, and it was determined that the brake booster and brake master cylinder needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired and remained at the dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V888000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

I HAVE HAD BELOW ISSUE AT 57000 MILES ON MY TACOMA. I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT I AM NOT UNDER THE WARRANTY, AND COPORATE THAT THERE IS NO RECALL FOR MY TRUCK BY SEARCH VIN, BUT ITS CLEAR IM EXPERIENCING THE SAME ISSUES AS BELOW AND SEEING OTHER VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE EXPERIENCING THE SAME ISSUE, SO ITS CLEAR THIS TRUCK WAS BUILT WITH THE SAME DEFECTS. The Plano, Texas-based manufacturer sent a safety recall report to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stating they will recall 6,046 2018 Toyota Camry, 2018 Toyota Highlander, 2017 Toyota Sienna, 2017 Toyota Tacoma, and 2017 Lexus RX350 vehicles built between Oct. 2 and Nov. 3, 2017. Toyota stated in the report the affected vehicles contain brake booster vacuum pump assemblies with improperly machined oil galleys. The vacuum pump is supplied oil from the engine to seal and lubricate the pump vane’s movement. The defect can cause oil to not properly circulate through the system, eventually breaking the pump vane and causing potentially dangerous braking assist loss.

The brake system is leaking fluid in the cab of the truck creating a safety hazard; the brake fluid is a slick oily substance that can potentially inhibit the application of the braking system when the foot is applied to the pedal with the brake fluid on the pedal or picked up on the bottom of the foot.

Rodents ate through eleven soy base coated wires. These wires just so happen to go to the fob, my air conditioning, and one headlight. This is obviously a safety issue. I contacted Toyota and filed my concerns. They told me that there is nothing they could do. I at the least would like a reasonable explanation why they engineered food into their electrical system. Thanks for listening.

The Electrohydraulic Brake Booster leak a Brake Fluid in the driver side Cabin near to Brake pedal.. This brake Fluid leak touch de floor paint and cause rust on the metal floor… eventually make the warning light on on dash panel and canceling brake functions and another think on brake system .. is a brake fail dangerous.. to much tacoma owners report that fails but Toyota USA solution is replace a Part but out of warranty ..

Motor tensioner bearings. All of the motor tensioner bearings have completely failed on this vehicle at 70,000 miles. All have to be replaced in an effort to avoid motor seizure and or other grave safety issues

The brake system is leaking fluid in the cab of the truck creating a safety hazard; the brake fluid is a slick oily substance that can potentially inhibit the application of the braking system when the foot is applied to the pedal with the brake fluid on the pedal or picked up on the bottom of the foot.

Display a message in screen "Pre-Collision System Malfunction", lost power and start blinking light in cluster

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to two independent mechanics, who determined that the catalytic convertor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where it was also diagnosed and determined that the catalytic convertor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.

Vehicle stalling on freeway and almost crashed multiple times and dealership is saying they already fixed the recall on my truck but still doing same thing as reports say

Stalls when pressing down the acelator pedal from 0 to 30mph and takes between 2 to 7 seconds to ramp up the RPMs

Brake pedal went to the floor and I lost almost all braking, had to use the hand brake to get home. Brakes had been working fine on outbound trip, failed when preparing to return home.

2018 Tacoma DC TRD Off Road, V6, hydraulic brake master cylinder, 49,000 miles: Brake fluid leaking into the cab of the vehicle beneath the brake pedal. Brake fluid is leaking from the rear of the master cylinder, running down the push rod and dripping off of the brake pedal bracket. Brake pedal resistance is slightly reduced. First noticed something dripping on my floor mat in April of 2023. I wasn't sure what it was. It never occurred to me that it could be brake fluid. There shouldn't be any vehicle fluids under the dash. There is the possibility of the system losing enough pressure that the brake system could fail entirely causing an accident and possible injury. (same symptoms as the recall for the vacuum boosted master cylinder-internal seal failure) This part should last at least half the life of the vehicle. 5 years and 49,000 miles is very premature for this part to fail. Took vehicle to the dealership. The dealership was quick to inform me that there are no open recalls on my vehicle, and this is not the same issue as the recall. I have a different style of master cylinder that is not affected by the recall. Toyota will not cover the failure. I should replace the entire master cylinder ($2100) and reevaluate. There have been no warning lamps, messages, or DTC's.

Pulling vehicle into the garage on a cold morning (15 deg F). Hydraulic booster/brake master cylinder suddenly stopped providing boost pressure and brake pedal dropped to the floor. With no braking effort able to be applied the vehicle was driven into the house at slow speed. No hydraulic leaks are noted and pedal height and brake performance seems to have returned. There is fluid in the master cylinder reservoir and it doesn't appear to be contaminated. Braking capability returned after placing the vehicle in park and then reversing. Waiting for insurance follow up to select a collision repair shop and have the vehicle towed for repair. Dash cam video of the incident is available and clearly shows braking occurring and then the vehicle speeding up or failing to stop. Was unable to upload the video due to size. Photos are also available showing the damage and dry garage floors where the accident occurred. Vehicle is equipped with WeatherTech floor mats and I've verified there are no issues with mats and unattended acceleration with photographic documentation. I was the driver during the incident, am ASE Master Certified, and have taught automotive courses at the local community college for the last 12 years, worked as an automotive technician for 10 years prior, and work professionally as a Mechanical Engineer. Leveraging my experience, there is clearly a present concern with the hydraulic brake booster/master cylinder, particularly at cold temperatures.

My brake master cylinder failed on my 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The Toyota service technician inspected it and said it failed. My brake pedal went to the floor which affected my braking distance. There were no warning lights or indication that my brakes failed.

When I go to accelerate at low speed my vehicle shudders shakes and vibrates, no engine lights or codes have popped up, the issue is somewhere from transmission to the rear end. Im guessing transmission or torque converter. With my vehicle only having 136,000 miles and is well taken care of this is ridiculous, I have checked drive line and tires and everything seems to be working as it should so it has to be something internal

Factory paint peeling off

When accelerating on highway check engine light started flashing and engine running rough. Pulled over and stopped vehicle turned off ignition. Restarted vehicle and light was out no longer running rough. Toyota dealer checked computer, cylinder #2 misfired 47 times & cylinder #3 misfired 3 times. They said they could not find what had created this problem and still charged me for engine diagnostics.

2018 2WD Tacoma. Auto transmission. Ever since new and even today, when traveling 30-40 MPH and slowing to anywhere from 10-25 MPH, and then trying to accelerate, the engine and/or transmission stumbles/hesitates for at least a full second, and then the engine races higher and a hard transmission downshift occurs jerking your head and body back and sending the vehicle into a fast acceleration.

IQ wireless charging pad gets hot pad has bubbled and dislodged from its place. Pad was replaced already for the same issue in Feb-2020. Now the same issue is recurring. The dealer said they had seen many more vehicles with the same problem. Charging pad gets hot when not in use. I contacted Toyota customer care to report and ask for advice, and they just said thank you for your feedback Vehicle is out of warranty nothing we can do about the issue. Explained this is an ongoing issue through this style of vehicle and should be noted or looked into as a possible safety concern. They said thanks for the feedback.

Brake fluid is leaking into cab of the truck around the brake pedal area. Brake pedal needs to be pushed in slightly more than normal. My truck has the same issues stated in the 2018-2019 Tacoma brake master cylinder recall. As stated in the original recall braking could be affected which could result in crash. I called Toyota and explain the situation and all I received was “there are currently no open recalls for your vehicle.”

My 2018 Tacoma is experiencing issues with the transmission jerking and shaking. It is not safe to drive. It is currently sitting parked because we can no longer drive it. We are out of a car due to this issue. Is there anything that can be done to get the problem resolved?

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made a rattling sound. Upon inspection, the contact noticed that the fuel tank cover had detached due to the well nuts being corroded. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 56,000.

My vehicles brakes stopped working unexpectedly. The brakes would not stop the truck until my foot was on the floor which caused me to almost rear end another vehicle. They also locked up when I tried to stop. There were no warning lights showing before, during, or after the incident. The dealer has not had a chance to check the vehicle yet but there was a previous recall issued for braking issues for Tacoma's made between February 2018-November 2018, and my Tacoma was manufactured in August 2018.

yes has been inspected by the manufacturer and they fixed it but I want to file a claim.

Paint on hood is coming up.

The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that after her husband parked the vehicle at a private property and shifted into gear and releasing the clutch, the rear passenger’s side tire locked up. The driver stated no warning light was illuminated. The driver and his son manually replaced the 8 springs, 8 retainers, and 8 pins on the rear brakes. The vehicle was not diagnosed. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 102,500.

The vehicle every time I fuel either does start afterwards or it would start and drive for about 3-6 minutes then it will stall. The very first time it happened was on the highway which I didn’t know why my car had stall but now that it has done it right at the fuel pump and also more often than not. I tried using other gas stations just to rule out bad fue but it has been like this for the past 6 month. I have taken it to Toyota MCDONOUGH in Georgia and they could not give a diagnostic because the check engine light does not stays on and they said they can’t replicate the problem.