Toyota Issues Recall for Tacoma Due to Brake System Defects
Toyota has announced a recall for 106,061 Tacoma pickups from the 2024 and 2025 model years due to a critical brake system defect. The issue affects specific four-wheel-drive models equipped with 17-inch wheels and 16-inch rear brakes. The design flaw allows dirt and mud to accumulate in the wheel area, leading to brake line damage and fluid leaks, which can compromise stopping power.
For Toyota Tacoma owners in California, this recall raises serious safety concerns. If the issue persists even after the recall repair, California Lemon Law offers additional legal protections.
What Is Causing the Brake System Issue?
Toyota engineers identified that excessive dirt and mud buildup could wear down the rear brake lines, leading to fluid leaks and decreased braking performance.
Key Risks Include:
- Brake Fluid Leaks: The accumulation of dirt damages the brake lines, causing leaks that reduce braking effectiveness.
- Loss of Stopping Power: A damaged brake system can increase stopping distances, making it more difficult to avoid collisions.
- Potential for Accidents: The defect increases the likelihood of rear-end collisions or loss of vehicle control, especially in off-road or wet conditions.
As of January 29, 2025, Toyota has received five technical field reports and 12 warranty claims related to this defect. While no injuries or accidents have been officially reported, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is monitoring the issue closely.
Which Toyota Tacoma Models Are Included in the Recall?
The recall applies to:
- 2024 Toyota Tacoma (4WD models with 17-inch wheels and 16-inch rear brakes)
- 2025 Toyota Tacoma (4WD models with 17-inch wheels and 16-inch rear brakes)
Tacoma models with 18-inch wheels or rear-wheel drive configurations are not currently affected. However, Toyota is still investigating the issue, and additional models could be added to the recall if necessary.
If you own one of these vehicles, check your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) using Toyota’s recall lookup tool or the NHTSA recall database to determine if your Tacoma is included.
How Toyota Plans to Fix the Problem
Toyota has developed a multi-step repair process to address the issue:
- Inspection of Brake Lines: Dealerships will check the rear brake hoses for any signs of wear, fluid leaks, or damage caused by dirt buildup.
- Replacement of Affected Parts: If necessary, Toyota will replace the rear brake hoses at no cost to the vehicle owner.
- Preventative Measures: Toyota is evaluating design improvements to prevent excessive dirt accumulation in future Tacoma models.
Toyota has already notified dealerships about the recall, and owners will receive official recall letters between March and April 2025. Until repairs are completed, drivers should monitor their braking performance and schedule service as soon as they receive a recall notification.
Why Toyota Tacoma Owners Should Be Concerned
The Toyota Tacoma is built for durability, but when braking problems arise, driver and passenger safety is at risk. A malfunctioning brake system is one of the most serious defects a vehicle can have, making it crucial for affected owners to take action.
If the recall repair does not permanently fix the problem, you should not be left dealing with an unreliable and unsafe truck. California Lemon Law exists to protect California consumers from being stuck with defective vehicles that fail to meet safety standards.
How California Lemon Law Protects Tacoma Owners
California Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease defective vehicles in California that fail to meet reliability and safety standards.
If your Tacoma’s brake issues persist despite multiple repair attempts, you may be eligible for:
- A Replacement Vehicle: Toyota may be required to provide a comparable new truck.
- A Refund: Owners could receive a refund covering down payments, monthly payments, and associated costs.
- Compensation for Repair Costs: If you’ve spent money on rental cars, towing, or out-of-pocket repairs, you may be eligible for reimbursement.
To qualify for a Lemon Law claim in California, your Tacoma must meet the following criteria:
- The defect significantly impacts safety, usability, or value.
- Toyota or an authorized dealership has attempted multiple repairs under warranty without success.
- The issue persists.
Steps to Take if Your Tacoma Is Affected
If you’re experiencing brake issues with your 2024 or 2025 Toyota Tacoma, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check Your VIN
Use the NHTSA recall lookup tool or contact your Toyota dealership to confirm if your vehicle is included.
Step 2: Schedule Repairs Immediately
If your Tacoma is affected, arrange a service appointment as soon as possible to ensure your safety.
Step 3: Keep a Record of Repairs
Document every visit to the dealership, including service invoices, repair details, and technician reports.
Step 4: Monitor Brake Performance
After recall repairs, pay close attention to any continued issues with stopping power, brake fluid leaks, or abnormal braking behavior.
Step 5: Consult a Lemon Law Attorney
If your Tacoma continues to experience problems, seek legal advice to explore your options under California Lemon Law.
Why Trust Gayle Law Group PC with Your Lemon Law Claim?
When vehicle defects persist despite multiple repair attempts, you deserve more than temporary fixes—you deserve real solutions. At Gayle Law Group PC, we advocate for consumers stuck with unreliable vehicles in California, ensuring automakers are held accountable for manufacturing defects that compromise safety and performance.
If your 2024 or 2025 Toyota Tacoma continues to have brake issues after recall repairs or if it was in for repair repeatedly before the recall was issued, don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Call Gayle Law Group PC today for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the resolution you deserve.