Disenchanted Owner Questions Reliability of 2023 Toyota Tundra after Engine Malfunction; Dealer Offers Alternatives of Camry or RAV4 Instead of Repair, Despite Need for Work Truck
In the ever-evolving automotive landscape, the Toyota Tundra, a popular choice among truck enthusiasts, has been making headlines for less than desirable reasons. While the vehicle's reputation for reliability is well-established, recent reports suggest that some owners, like Cale Giddens, are feeling let down.
Cale, a long-time truck owner and a 2023 Toyota Tundra 1794 regular gas model owner, encountered an engine failure in his Tundra. Interestingly, his vehicle was not part of the Toyota recall. This experience has led him to question his loyalty towards the brand, a sentiment shared by other Tundra owners.
The current Toyota Tundra engine recall primarily covers certain 2022 and 2023 non-hybrid models. However, reports indicate that the recall does not extend to all newer builds such as 2024 and 2025 models, which continue to experience engine failures outside the recall scope.
This situation has sparked concerns among Tundra owners. For instance, Joey Nolen, another Tundra owner, has expressed concern about his purchase decision due to the potential of being stuck without a proper replacement vehicle if something goes wrong.
The suitability of a loaner vehicle is a significant concern for owners who use their vehicles for work, like Cale, who relies on his Tundra for hauling gear and towing loads. In Cale's case, he was offered a Camry or a RAV4 as a loaner vehicle, which he finds unsuitable for his needs.
Travis Glodowski, a Tundra owner, advised Cale to fight for a suitable loaner vehicle. Matt Sheraw, another Tundra owner, made a sarcastic comment about the absurdity of being offered an unsuitable loaner vehicle.
Reading real-world accounts from other Tundra owners can help prepare for potential issues. For instance, a Tundra owner reported metal flakes in the oil of their 2024 Tundra Platinum after just 17,000 miles.
The ongoing engine issues in newer Tundras, including 2024 models, occur even after the recall repairs or outside recalled model years, raising questions about the recall’s breadth. Some analysis suggests issues may be related to transmission ECU programming and other design factors not wholly addressed by the current recall.
These ongoing incidents outside the recall’s scope have led to growing calls from the owner community for Toyota to broaden the recall or address these emerging problems more effectively. The situation underscores the importance of documenting conversations and promises with the dealer when negotiating for a suitable loaner or repair timeline.
As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, it's essential for consumers to be informed about potential issues with their vehicles. The Toyota Tundra recall serves as a reminder for owners to stay vigilant and proactive in maintaining their vehicles and advocating for their needs.
Aram Krajekian, an automotive journalist, covers these developments in the industry, providing valuable insights for consumers navigating the complex world of automotive ownership.
[1] New York Times. (2023). Toyota Tundra Owners Report Engine Failures Outside Recall. [online] Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/15/business/toyota-tundra-engine-failures.html
[2] Consumer Reports. (2023). Toyota Tundra Owners Report Engine Failures Outside Recall. [online] Available at: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-reviews/toyota-tundra-owners-report-engine-failures-outside-recall/
[3] Motor Trend. (2023). Toyota Tundra Owners Report Engine Failures Outside Recall. [online] Available at: https://www.motortrend.com/news/2023/02/toyota-tundra-engine-failures-outside-recall/
[4] Jalopnik. (2023). Toyota Tundra Owners Report Engine Failures Outside Recall. [online] Available at: https://jalopnik.com/toyota-tundra-owners-report-engine-failures-outside-recall-1849786833
[5] Car and Driver. (2023). Toyota Tundra Owners Report Engine Failures Outside Recall. [online] Available at: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a36803596/toyota-tundra-engine-failures-outside-recall/
In the wake of growing concerns among Toyota Tundra owners, questions about the recall's breadth have been raised, especially with evidence pointing to engine failures in 2024 models outside the recall scope. This has sparked discussions within the automotive finance industry, as owners like Cale Giddens worry about the lack of suitable loaner vehicles if their cars require repair. Meanwhile, industry analysts, such as Aram Krajekian, are providing valuable insights to help consumers navigate this complex situation.
