Vehicle Guide

2019 Toyota Tacoma Problems, Reliability & Owner's Guide

Common problems with the 2019 Toyota Tacoma, reliability ratings, maintenance tips, and owner reviews. Get your complete owner's guide.

Overview

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck built for drivers who want daily-driver practicality with real off-road capability. It’s part of the third-generation Tacoma (2016–2023), positioned as a durable, high-resale alternative to other midsize trucks thanks to Toyota’s strong reliability reputation. Ideal buyers include outdoor enthusiasts, contractors needing a manageable-size truck, and commuters who want 4WD availability without going full-size. For 2019, the Tacoma continued with proven powertrains, strong trim variety, and popular off-road-focused packages like TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro.

Key Features

1) Engine choices: A 2.7L 4-cylinder (159 hp, 180 lb-ft) for basic work-truck duty and a 3.5L V6 (278 hp, 265 lb-ft) for stronger towing, highway merging, and trail use. 2) Transmissions and drivetrains: Available 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual (availability varies by engine/trim), with rear-wheel drive or part-time 4WD on many models. 3) Capability: When properly equipped, the Tacoma can tow up to about 6,800 lbs with the V6, plus it offers solid payload capability for a midsize truck. 4) TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro hardware: Features can include off-road-tuned suspension, skid plates, locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control (feature availability depends on trim and configuration). 5) Everyday usability and safety: Multiple cab and bed configurations, a practical interior layout, and Toyota Safety Sense P driver-assist technology (including pre-collision braking and lane departure alert on many models).

Common Issues & Reliability

Searches for 2019 Toyota Tacoma reliability often come down to a simple truth: it’s generally a dependable midsize truck, but it has a few repeat complaints. Here are 2019 Toyota Tacoma common issues owners report most often, along with what to watch for: 1) Automatic transmission shifting behavior (often noticeable early, sometimes under 30,000–60,000 miles): Some owners describe “gear hunting,” delayed downshifts, or awkward shift logic, especially at city speeds and on hills. This is frequently more of a drivability complaint than a hard failure, but it can be frustrating. A software update, fluid condition check, and ensuring the truck is running the correct tire size can help improve behavior. 2) Rear differential whine or driveline noise/vibration (commonly reported around 20,000–70,000 miles): A humming/whining sound that changes with speed can point to differential wear, bearings, or fluid issues. If you hear consistent noise from the rear end, inspect the differential fluid level/condition and check for leaks, then have the driveline evaluated. 3) Fuel system/engine drivability complaints (varies, sometimes 30,000–80,000 miles): Some owners report rough idle, hesitation, or reduced fuel economy. Causes can include dirty throttle body, aging spark plugs (especially on higher-mile trucks), airflow sensor issues, or carbon buildup patterns typical of modern engines. Proper tune-up intervals and quality fuel habits can reduce these complaints. 4) Wear-and-tear items that show up sooner with heavy use (mileage varies): Brakes, shocks/struts, and alignment/tire wear can happen faster on Tacomas that tow, carry loads, or see frequent off-road miles. This isn’t unique to Tacoma, but it’s one reason pre-purchase inspections matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

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