This issue does not impact the brand-new truck — only late examples of the third-gen Tacoma.
In a statement Tuesday, Toyota announced it would recall approximately 381,000 Tacoma trucks in the U.S. for a potential issue with the rear axle assembly. The company says that welding debris left on Tacomas’ rear axles during manufacturing could cause certain retaining nuts to loosen, eventually separating from the axle assembly. If that happens, it could case a part of the rear axle to separate, significantly increasing the risk of an accident.
While this specific recall campaign has not been published through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)’s database, Toyota did include specifics on how it would tackle the recall. According to the published statement, dealer technicians will inspect the rear axle assembly of 2022 and 2023 model year trucks, and retighten the axle retaining nuts, free of charge. If the inspection uncovers damaged components, the automaker will also repair or replace those parts, “based on inspection criteria”.
Affected owners should see notices arrive in the mail about the recall in late April. In the meantime, available resources to get more information include Toyota’s recall website and eventually the NHTSA recall site. You can also call Toyota’s Brand Engagement Center at 1-(800)-331-4331.
Toyota specifically mentions 2022 and 2023 Tacomas in this recall. Earlier third-generation trucks should not be affected, nor does this recall extend to the brand-new 2024 Tacoma.
