CarBrief

NHTSA has 101 owner complaints on file for the 2015 Tacoma[1], and four recalls that all have free fixes[2][3][4][5]. Owners in the complaint sample describe a few repeat themes, including secondary air injection system faults[6], paint peeling[7] and shaking when braking[8].

101owner complaints[1]
4recalls[9]
17–22MPG combined (EPA)[10]
4★NHTSA overall rating[11]

Most reported problems

Owners filed 101 complaints with NHTSA[1]. Of those, 15 mention a crash[1], 2 a fire[1] and 11 injuries[1]. No deaths are reported[1]. These are unverified reports, and one complaint can name several parts of the truck.

Here is how the complaints split by component group:

We read a small sample of complaint texts for four of these groups. The themes below are what owners describe in that sample, not a measure of how common a problem is.

Engine. In a sample of 12 engine complaints we read, 6 describe a secondary air injection or air pump fault[6]. Owners mention warning lights, reduced power or limp mode, and a repair they call costly. Two describe rodents chewing wiring under the hood[6].

Structure. In a sample of 12, 5 describe paint problems and 3 of those describe peeling or chipping, often around window frames[7]. Two describe wind noise at highway speed[7].

Brakes. In a sample of 12, 3 describe the steering wheel shaking when braking[8]. Four describe the truck moving forward or rolling while the owner says they were on the brake[8].

Air bags. In a sample of 11, 5 owners say the air bags did not deploy in a crash[13]. We cannot confirm any of these reports.

Recalls

NHTSA lists four recalls, newest first. All four have a free remedy, and none is described as pending. Two apply only to trucks with dealer-installed accessories, and two cover trucks built in a short window in 2014.

Fuel economy

EPA lists eight configurations, all on regular fuel. Combined ratings run from 17 to 22 MPG[17][10][18].

EPA's annual cost uses its current fuel price assumptions, not the price when the truck was new.

Safety ratings

NHTSA gives the 2015 Tacoma 4 stars overall in all four configurations it tested[11][24][25][26].

The 4WD versions show a higher rollover risk than the 2WD versions in these ratings[11][24][25][26].

Engine and size

The EPA test list rates the 2.7L 4-cylinder at 159 hp[27] and the 4.0L 6-cylinder at 236 hp[28].

Dimensions below are Canadian-market specifications and can differ slightly from US trucks.

How 2015 compares with other years

1995: 177 complaints, 2 recalls19951996: 253 complaints, 1 recalls1997: 131 complaints, 0 recalls1998: 300 complaints, 1 recalls1999: 249 complaints, 0 recalls19992000: 211 complaints, 0 recalls2001: 396 complaints, 4 recalls2002: 333 complaints, 3 recalls2003: 360 complaints, 3 recalls20032004: 414 complaints, 3 recalls2005: 707 complaints, 10 recalls2006: 782 complaints, 11 recalls2007: 541 complaints, 10 recalls20072008: 449 complaints, 11 recalls2009: 519 complaints, 13 recalls2010: 294 complaints, 13 recalls2011: 186 complaints, 9 recalls20112012: 295 complaints, 7 recalls2013: 125 complaints, 6 recalls2014: 93 complaints, 4 recalls2015: 101 complaints, 4 recalls10120152016: 324 complaints, 4 recalls2017: 243 complaints, 5 recalls2018: 209 complaints, 3 recalls2019: 219 complaints, 4 recalls20192020: 90 complaints, 1 recalls2021: 81 complaints, 0 recalls2022: 59 complaints, 3 recalls2023: 54 complaints, 4 recalls20232024: 154 complaints, 6 recalls2025: 111 complaints, 5 recalls2026: 11 complaints, 0 recalls
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA for each Tacoma model year. The 2015 is highlighted[9].
Show the numbers
Model yearComplaintsRecalls
19951772
19962531
19971310
19983001
19992490
20002110
20013964
20023333
20033603
20044143
200570710
200678211
200754110
200844911
200951913
201029413
20111869
20122957
20131256
2014934
20151014
20163244
20172435
20182093
20192194
2020901
2021810
2022593
2023544
20241546
20251115
2026110

NHTSA has 101 complaints and 4 recalls for the 2015 model year[9]. Next to it, 2014 has 93 complaints and 4 recalls, 2013 has 125 and 6, and 2016 has 324 and 4[9].

Six other model years have fewer complaints than 2015: 2014 (93), 2020 (90), 2021 (81), 2022 (59), 2023 (54) and 2026 (11)[9]. So 2015 is on the lower side for this model, but not the lowest. These counts are not adjusted for how many trucks were sold, so treat them as a rough guide.

Should you buy a used 2015 Tacoma?

The numbers are not alarming. The 2015 count of 101 complaints sits on the lower side for this model[9], and all four recalls have free remedies[2][3][4][5]. Still, the complaint sample points to a few things worth checking on a used truck. Look for warning lights tied to the secondary air injection system[6], paint peeling near window frames[7], and any shaking under braking[8]. Ask for proof that recall work was done if the truck has dealer-installed accessories.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common problems with the 2015 Toyota Tacoma?
NHTSA has 101 complaints[1]. Among named component groups, Structure has 15[7], Engine 12[6] and Brakes 12[8]. A further 29 name an unknown or other group[12]. In the samples we read, owners describe secondary air injection faults[6], paint peeling[7] and shaking when braking[8].
Does the 2015 Toyota Tacoma have any recalls?
Yes, four: 17V425 hood scoop[2], 15V099 tire placard[3], 14V828 accessory bolts[4] and 14V663 load label[5]. Each has a free remedy.
What is the gas mileage of a 2015 Toyota Tacoma?
EPA combined ratings run from 17 to 22 MPG depending on engine, drive and transmission[17][10][18]. The best is the 2WD 2.7L 4-cyl manual at 22[10] and the lowest is the 4WD 4.0L 6-cyl manual at 17[18].
How safe is the 2015 Toyota Tacoma?
NHTSA gives it 4 stars overall in every configuration tested[11][24][25][26].
Is 2015 a good year for the Tacoma?
It has 101 complaints[1]. Six other model years have fewer, including 2014 with 93[9]. The counts are not adjusted for sales.

Facts and sources

  1. NHTSA has 101 owner complaints on file for the 2015 Toyota Tacoma (15 mention a crash, 2 a fire, 11 injuries, 0 deaths reported). NHTSA vehicle records
  2. Recall 17V425, filed July 3, 2017: Equipment. NHTSA recall database
  3. Recall 15V099, filed February 23, 2015: Wheels. NHTSA recall database
  4. Recall 14V828, filed December 30, 2014: Equipment. NHTSA recall database
  5. Recall 14V663, filed October 22, 2014: Equipment › Other › Labels. NHTSA recall database
  6. 12 complaints name the engine component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 12,400). NHTSA vehicle records
  7. 15 complaints name the structure component group (1 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 6,500). NHTSA vehicle records
  8. 12 complaints name the brakes component group (5 crashes, 0 fires, 2 injuries, median mileage at failure 9,200). NHTSA vehicle records
  9. Owner complaints and recalls for every Toyota Tacoma model year (chart above). NHTSA recall database
  10. EPA rating for Tacoma 2WD, 2.7L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd, Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 21 city / 25 highway / 22 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,050. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  11. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, PU/EC 2WD: overall 4 stars, frontal 4 stars, side 4 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 14.7%. NHTSA vehicle records
  12. 29 complaints name the unknown or other component group (3 crashes, 1 fires, 2 injuries, median mileage at failure 5,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  13. 11 complaints name the air bags component group (7 crashes, 0 fires, 6 injuries, median mileage at failure 38,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  14. 9 complaints name the power train component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 16,000). NHTSA vehicle records
  15. 9 complaints name the speed control component group (3 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 36,200). NHTSA vehicle records
  16. 8 complaints name the electrical system component group (1 crashes, 1 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 15,700). NHTSA vehicle records
  17. EPA rating for Tacoma 2WD, 4.0L 6-cyl, Manual 6-spd, Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 16 city / 21 highway / 18 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,700. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  18. EPA rating for Tacoma 4WD, 4.0L 6-cyl, Manual 6-spd, Regular, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive: 15 city / 19 highway / 17 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,950. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  19. EPA rating for Tacoma 2WD, 2.7L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd, Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 19 city / 24 highway / 21 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,200. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  20. EPA rating for Tacoma 2WD, 4.0L 6-cyl, Automatic 5-spd, Regular, Rear-Wheel Drive: 17 city / 21 highway / 19 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,550. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  21. EPA rating for Tacoma 4WD, 2.7L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd, Regular, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 20 highway / 19 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,550. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  22. EPA rating for Tacoma 4WD, 2.7L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd, Regular, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive: 18 city / 21 highway / 19 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,550. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  23. EPA rating for Tacoma 4WD, 4.0L 6-cyl, Automatic 5-spd, Regular, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive: 16 city / 21 highway / 18 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,700. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
  24. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, PU/CC 2WD: overall 4 stars, frontal 3 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 14.7%. NHTSA vehicle records
  25. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, PU/EC 4WD: overall 4 stars, frontal 4 stars, side 4 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 19.1%. NHTSA vehicle records
  26. NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, PU/CC 4WD: overall 4 stars, frontal 3 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 19.1%. NHTSA vehicle records
  27. EPA Test Car List, 2015 Toyota Tacoma with 2.7L 4-cylinder: rated 159 hp. www.epa.gov
  28. EPA Test Car List, 2015 Toyota Tacoma with 4.0L 6-cylinder: rated 236 hp. www.epa.gov
  29. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, TACOMA ACCESS CAB L/BOX 4WD: length 208 in, width 75 in, height 70 in, wheelbase 128 in, curb weight 3,999 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  30. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, TACOMA ACCESS CAB L/BOX 4WD V-6: length 208 in, width 75 in, height 70 in, wheelbase 128 in, curb weight 4,074 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  31. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, TACOMA ACCESS CAB L/BOX RWD: length 208 in, width 72 in, height 66 in, wheelbase 128 in, curb weight 3,605 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  32. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, TACOMA DOUBLE CAB L/BOX 4WD (AUTO): length 221 in, width 75 in, height 70 in, wheelbase 141 in, curb weight 4,220 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
  33. Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, TACOMA DOUBLE CAB S/BOX 4WD (MANUAL): length 208 in, width 75 in, height 70 in, wheelbase 128 in, curb weight 4,160 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov

Complaints submitted to NHTSA by owners; unverified reports, one complaint can name several components. Complaint counts are not normalized by sales; compare years of the same model, not different models. EPA annual fuel cost uses EPA's current fuel price assumptions, not the price when the car was new. Horsepower is the rating listed for EPA test vehicles. Dimensions are Canadian-market specifications and can differ slightly from US models.