2013 Toyota Tacoma: Is It Reliable?
Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict
Shopping for a used 2013 Toyota Tacoma? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Current data includes 123 complaints, with Transmission / Drivetrain as the top reported area.
2013 Toyota Tacoma Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 8 2013 Toyota Tacoma trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 8 trims analysed.
2013 Toyota Tacoma Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program6 variants tested — showing 2013 Toyota Tacoma PU/RC 4WDOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
19.1% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
19.1% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2013 Toyota Tacoma has 123 owner complaints, 11 crash-related complaints, and 6 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Transmission / Drivetrain. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Toyota
- Model
- Tacoma
- Model year
- 2013
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 123
- Crash-related complaints
- 11
- Safety recall campaigns
- 6
- Top reported component
- Transmission / Drivetrain
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 19
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 18 / 21
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 4/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 4/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 4/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Most Common 2013 Toyota Tacoma Problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Transmission / Drivetrain
Brake System
Uncategorized Issues
Complaint patterns center on Transmission / Drivetrain, Brake System, Uncategorized Issues. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Should You Buy a Used 2013 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2013 Toyota Tacoma shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.
Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.
What to Check Before Buying a Used 2013 Toyota Tacoma
Inspection Focus
- Inspect transmission/drivetrain for any signs of issues.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for brake system and transmission.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Before You Close the Deal
- Inspect transmission/drivetrain for any signs of issues.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for brake system and transmission.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2013 Toyota Tacoma, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
The 2013 Toyota Tacoma has 123 NHTSA complaints, with the highest number related to the transmission/drivetrain and brake system. There are 6 recalls and 11 crash-related complaints. The data suggests potential issues with these components, but the confidence level is low.
- Transmission/drivetrain complaints are the most frequent, with 22 reports.
- Brake system complaints total 18, indicating a possible area of concern.
- There are 6 recalls for the 2013 model year.
- Transmission / Drivetrain issues are the most reported component.
- Brake System problems are the second most common complaint.
- Suspension Failures and Steering Defects each have 13 complaints.
All 2013 Toyota Tacoma Complaints by Category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2013 Toyota Tacoma. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 22 | 2 | — | — | |
| Brake System | 18 | 2 | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 13 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 13 | 1 | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 13 | — | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 13 | 1 | 4 | — | |
| Structural Problems | 11 | 2 | 1 | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 11 | 1 | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 10 | 4 | 1 | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 8 | 1 | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 7 | — | 1 | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 6 | 1 | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 4 | — | 2 | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment Adaptive/Mobility | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | 1 | — | — | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
Real Owner Complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2013 Toyota Tacoma. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while closing the hood, the hood prop rod unexpectedly fell behind the latch, ceasing to securely latch the hood. While driving at 80 MPH, the hood suddenly opened and fractured the windshield. There was no injury sus…
I am filing this consumer complaint against Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. (Toyota Motor North America, Inc.) for unfair and deceptive business practices related to a known paint peeling defect on my 2013 Toyota Tacoma (VIN identified in form, paint code 040 Super White). The v…
Vehicle involved in a head on collision resulting in a total loss. Frontal airbags did not deploy. Occupant (driver) sustained bilateral wrist injuries requiring surgery.
whenever we need to use the horn there isnt one to use. we have changed the fuse more than once still nothing.
The horn started malfunctioning recently at around 200k miles, sometimes working sometimes not (regardless of steering wheel positioning). As prior complaints have stated; the suspect was likely the clockspring, but all the steering wheel controls were functioning with no issues …
The power brake booster failed while driving with my [XXX] and [XXX] old. Fortunately I was in a school zone with no traffic. This particular part is known to fail with Toyota's (recalled on a few models). The vehicle is 13 so Toyota will not back their product. The dealer char…
Unknown, The Horn failed to work suddenly when driving. It only works when I turn the wheel then press which I've been told is a clock spring failure in steering wheel which can also affect air bag. Thank You
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the unoccupied vehicle was parked on a slightly inclined driveway. The contact later noticed that the vehicle had rolled across the street into the neighbor's yard, causing the rear end of the vehicle to crash into a …
The frame was “repaired” by the spray foam, not replaced. This foam has been falling off since I purchased the vehicle and there is much rust on the frame. I have gone into Toyota for this to be inspected and they said that the foam that was applied to the frame and was sufficien…
THE SRS AIRBAGS BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENDER SIDE WARNING LIGHTS TURNED ON 1/23/2025 AT 6:06 PM RIGHT AFTER I GOT HOME FROM WORK. THE AIR BAG FAILED TO TURN OFF WHEN THE SEAT BELT IS FASTEN TO THE SEATBELT BUCKLE. WHEN THE SEAT BELT WAS IN PLACE AND REMOVED FROM HOLSTER, THE INDICAT…
While backing in camper to my driveway after a 3.5 hr return trip, the back part of the frame which holds the rear bumper and the trailer hitch let go from a rusted frame. See attached pic. I inquired with a Toyota dealer who said my vehicle is out of warranty for the CSP fro…
The rear leaf springs are rusted and corroded, and make a noise when I drive the vehicle.
Within 1 month of buying a 2012 and 2013 tacoma the clockspring goes out. This repair is incredibly expensive and has happened with every single Tacoma I have ever bought. Toyota needs to do something about this, this is unnaceptable that my horn/clockspring goes out almost immi…
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that the ABS activated at approximately 35 MPH while making a turn. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified…
1. Fuel door hinge broke. Checked on Tacoma forums, this is a common problem with 2005-2015 model. 2. Not a safety risk. 3. Toyota does not acknowledge this is as a problem for the 2005-2015 model. 4. Vehicle has been inspected for repair estimate. 5. Prior to hinge breakin…
my lower [ntermediate steering shaft has to be replaced repair is pending the u joint was so rusted steering was very difficult i noticed that the vehicle steering wheel would not return to normal straight it was a gradual process at least 3 months of minor to very …
The contact owns a 2013 Toyota Tacoma. The contact stated that while in reverse and attempting to park the engine RPMs suddenly increased while pressing the brake pedal and the vehicle experienced unintended acceleration causing the driver to lose control of the steering. During …
This issue has been ongoing. Taken into local Toyota dealer and was told they needed to replace entire rack and pinion at a cost of nearly $1500. Three days after picking up it is doing same thing. While steering around corner it will temporarily lock and suddenly it feels like i…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 TOYOTA TACOMA. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE SPEEDOMETER AND THE FUEL GAUGE STOPPED WORKING. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT AFTER REPLACING THE BATTERY, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START-UP. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE…
STEERING SUDDENLY BECAME EXTREMELY STIFF WHEN MAKING A LEFT OR RIGHT TURN. BROUGHT TO MECHANIC AND CONFIRMED THE LOWER INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFT WAS BADLY RUSTED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2013 Toyota Tacoma.
2013 Toyota Tacoma Recalls
6 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2013 Toyota Tacoma. 6 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
2013 Toyota Tacoma Buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2013 Toyota Tacoma reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 123 owner complaints, 11 crash-related complaints, and 6 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2013 Toyota Tacoma shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2013 Toyota Tacoma?▾
#1: Transmission / Drivetrain (22 complaints). #2: Brake System (18 complaints). #3: Uncategorized Issues (13 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2013 Toyota Tacoma?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2013 Toyota Tacoma?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2013 Toyota Tacoma, NHTSA complaints include 11 crash-related reports and 6 fire reports out of 123 total complaints. 8 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2013 Toyota Tacoma have any recalls?▾
Yes. 6 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2013 Toyota Tacoma. A major recall area is STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS. 6 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2013 Toyota Tacoma?▾
The 2013 Toyota Tacoma shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Transmission / Drivetrain during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Toyota Tacoma reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2013 Toyota Tacoma based on your ownership experience.
Add your rating:
Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Check the Exact Vehicle History Before You Buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.