The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced a recall affecting Toyota Tacoma trucks. The issue specifically involves:
- Four-wheel drive Tacomas
- Equipped with 16-inch brake systems
- Paired with 17-inch wheels
When mud and dirt accumulate inside these larger wheels during off-road adventures, they can come into contact with the brake components. This may result in:
- Potential fluid leaks
- Decreased braking performance
- Increased stopping distance
- Possible crashes
Toyota is expanding its investigation to see if other configurations might also be at risk, including:
- Two-wheel drive Tacomas
- Mixes of 16-inch brakes with 17- or 18-inch wheels
The initial warning emerged in July 2024. To address the issue, Toyota will:
- Notify owners by April
- Reattach or relocate brake lines
The NHTSA documentation mentions “16-inch brake systems,” which is somewhat confusing since Tacoma’s actual brake rotors measure 12.2 to 13.4 inches. This issue seems to affect models with the smaller brake packages, such as the basic SR and SR5 trims, rather than the off-road versions.
In an unexpected development, mud buildup in Toyota's Tacoma trucks can damage brake systems, potentially leading to safety hazards. Owners should stay alert for further communication regarding necessary repairs. While this recall might muddy Toyota's reputation, it emphasizes the importance of thorough checks even for adventure-ready vehicles.
