Used Toyota Tundra

What to know before buying: Toyota Tundra

From 3 press tests · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The 2021 Tundra was rated more reliable than other vehicles from the same model year, although it had three NHTSA recalls.[3]one source
• The third-generation Tundra gained a fully boxed frame, stouter transmission, larger cab and a composite bed that cannot rust.[2]one source
• A low bedside makes the bed easier to reach, while the cab's rear glass lowers fully—a feature the source calls unique among trucks on sale.[2]one source
• The source says the new Tundra still handles truck duties, but its turbo-V6 powertrain is much more complex than the previous V8.[2]one source

Typical faults

• The 2022–2023 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 could retain manufacturing debris that damages the first main bearing, potentially causing sudden power loss or catastrophic engine failure.[1][2]

  2022–2023 · 3.4L twin-turbo V6

• On 2022–2024 vehicles, moisture may enter the reverse-lamp circuit board: the lamps may fail to illuminate and the rear-view camera may activate while driving.[1]one source

  2022–2024

• On vehicles built from May 1, 2023 to December 19, 2024, an inadequately insulated towing-relay wire may short, disable the brake lights and prevent restart after shutdown.[1]one source

  2023–2024

• One owner of a 2021 Tundra SR5 with the 5.7-liter V8 reported that the information-center screen went blank for a full day, then resumed working the next day.[3]one source

  2021–2021 · 5.7L V8

Which engine and version to take

• The 5.7-liter V8 is the sounder choice in these sources: it powered the long-running second generation, whose reliability the source rates much more highly than its successor.[2]one source

What to avoid

• Treat the 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 cautiously: metal debris may damage the first main bearing, causing sudden failure and requiring complete engine replacement.[1][2]

What to check at the inspection

• For a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6, check recall status and engine-replacement records; the sources describe multiple recalls and complete engine replacement.[1][2]
• On a 2022–2024 vehicle, test both reverse lamps and make sure the rear-view camera does not activate unexpectedly while driving forward.[1]one source
• On a 2023–2024 vehicle, check the brake lights, brake-system warnings and records for the towing-converter relay wire repair.[1]one source
• During an extended check of a 2021 vehicle, operate the information-center screen and test its audio, navigation, phone, camera and sensor functions.[3]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]carsguide.com.au — Toyota Tundra Problems & Reliability Issues · press
2. [2]thedrive.com — Toyota Built Its Reputation on Reliability. The Tundra Is ... · press
3. [3]consumerreports.org — 2021 Toyota Tundra Reliability · press

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