NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2025 Toyota Tacoma
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The Toyota Tacoma is one of America's best-selling midsize pickups, a segment fixture that draws loyal buyers ranging from work-site professionals to weekend off-road enthusiasts. Built as a body-on-frame truck in extended and crew cab configurations, the Tacoma competes squarely against the Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado, offering a blend of rugged capability and everyday usability that has defined the nameplate for decades.
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 76 out of 100, an average result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 4 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally praise the Tacoma for its commanding presence in the midsize truck segment and strong off-road capability. Most find the ride comfort adequate for a body-on-frame design, though some note the cabin materials and refinement fall short of newer rivals. Driving dynamics are described as truck-like rather than car-like, and most reviewers position it as a strong value for buyers who prioritize utility and segment reputation.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 20282
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS26V179000
Risk: A vehicle with an incorrect maximum capacity weight value may be overloaded, which can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the load carrying capacity modification label, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed May 26, 2026. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 26LB04, 26LA04, 26TB07, and 26TA07.
Reported 2026-03-24
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT25V656000
Risk: A broken driveshaft can impair steering. Vehicles with full-time 4WD may experience a vehicle rollaway while parked without the parking brake applied. Both scenarios increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace both front driveshaft assemblies as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed November 14, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated within June 2026. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 25TB11 and 25TA11.
Reported 2025-10-01
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL25V595000
Risk: An instrument panel display that does not show critical information can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument panel software over-the-air (OTA) for non-PHEV vehicles, free of charge. For PHEV vehicles, dealers will inspect the instrument panel assembly, and either replace it, or update the software, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed December 5, 2025. Additional letters will be sent, anticipated in May 2026. This is a phased recall. Owners may contact Toyota's cus
Reported 2025-09-11
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS25V058000
Risk: A brake fluid leak can reduce braking ability and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace both rear brake hoses, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed August 1, 2025. Owners may contact Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 25TB04 and 25TA04.
Reported 2025-02-06
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
66 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.