2018 Toyota Tacoma Engine Recall: What You Need To Know
In 2018, Toyota recalled certain model year 2016-2018 Toyota Tacoma trucks due to a engine issue that could cause the engine to stall, increasing the risk of a crash. The recall affected over 280,000 vehicles in the United States and Canada. As a result, Toyota issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) to address the issue and provide a free repair to affected vehicles. If your 2018 Toyota Tacoma is impacted, it's essential to understand the details of the recall and what steps you need to take to ensure your vehicle is safe.
Recall Details
The recall, designated as NHTSA Recall No. 18V103000, affects 2016-2018 Toyota Tacoma trucks with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, built between September 22, 2015, and October 17, 2017. According to Toyota, the fuel system in these vehicles may contain a faulty engine control computer, which can cause the engine to lose power and stall, particularly when the vehicle is subjected to high loads or temperatures. "The engine control module, also known as the Engine Control System or ECS, can only work with the intended voltage, and if that voltage drops too low, the engine control module will exit LIN (Local Interconnect Network) mode," explained Toyota spokesperson, Curt McAllister.
Causes and Symptoms
The recall is linked to a faulty LIN network, which handles communication between the engine control module and various sensors and actuators throughout the vehicle. Toyota has identified a possible software issue that can prevent the ECM from communicating with the vehicle's onboard computer, causing the engine to stall. Some symptoms of the issue may include:
• Engine stalling, particularly when accelerating or under load
• Illumination of the Check Engine light (CEL)
• Sudden loss of engine power
• Difficulty starting the engine
What to Do If Your Vehicle Is Affected
If your 2018 Toyota Tacoma is part of the recall, Toyota is providing a free repair to address the issue. To determine if your vehicle is affected, you can:
1. Check the NHTSA website for the recall number and open a MyNISSAN recall check (18V103000)
2. Contact a certified Toyota dealer to schedule a free inspection
3. Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle to confirm it's part of the recall
Once you've confirmed your vehicle is affected, Toyota will provide a free repair to the fuel system to update the engine control software and resolve the issue. Typically, the repair should only take a few hours to complete.
Precautions and Recommendations
While the repair is free, it's crucial to take precautions to prevent further complications:
• Avoid driving the vehicle if you notice any issues or caution lights illuminated on the dashboard
• Keep a phone nearby in case your vehicle stalls
• Follow standard driving and maintenance guidelines to prevent exacerbating the issue
### Additional Tips for Owners
• Keep records of all interactions with the dealership and recalls related to your vehicle
• Consider requesting a rental vehicle if you're unable to drive your car during repairs
• Keep in mind that recalls typically occur during the warranty period, which extends up to 8 years to 100,000 miles
Timeline and Updates
The recall began in February 2018, and Toyota issued multiple TSBs to address the issue. The manufacturer has been monitoring reports and working closely with the NHTSA to ensure owners have the necessary information and support. As of the current date, all affected vehicles have been repaired.
