The 2016 Toyota Tundra Crewmax has been upgraded in the current iteration. It benefits from a new feature list and an upgraded electronic interface, yet the full-size pickup truck falls short to match the potential of some of its direct competitors. However, belonging to a Japanese lineage, there is no doubting its reliability. For a truck that sells over 100,000 units, the Tundra has 97 complaints and 6 recalls. Most of its grievances relate to the recently introduced trailer braking facility, while some other niggles have also been prevalent. So, what are the most commonly reported Toyota Tundra complaints, and how does it compare against the likes of the Ford F-150 Crew Cab and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab? Let’s find out.
2016 Toyota Tundra Crewmax User Complaints and Problems
Mechanical Complaints
- Trailer brake controller malfunction: The Toyota Tundra trailer brake controller problems are its most common issue. Across several units, buyers have reported the inability of the system to bring the truck and the trailer to a halt. Despite the pedal being depressed and the braking capacity automatically adjusting to a maximum of 10 points, the trailer fails to slow down. While Toyota is cognizant of the issue, there is no solution currently available for the aggrieved parties.
- Failure of power steering assist: Among other 2016 Toyota Tundra problems, some buyers have reported the failure of the power steering assist. Complainants have recorded that the steering wheel freezes, which makes it difficult to control the vehicle. A possible cause for the problem can be an oil leak from the power steering gear assembly, for which the brand has initiated two recalls, referenced by NHTSA IDs: 21E103000 and 21V920000.
- Problems with the rear wheels: In a few cases, buyers of the 2016 Tundra have reported the rear wheels not moving freely. While they do rotate, the performance of the vehicle remains rather sluggish. It has been noted that the failure of the rear bearings results in such an issue and is characterized by a humming noise.
Electric System Complaints
- Issues with the exterior lighting: In the list of 2016 Toyota Tundra's common problems, buyers of the full-size pickup truck have reported the failure of the exterior lights. When placed in auto mode, the headlights of the truck lose their power as the turn signals are activated. Additionally, in some cases, complainants have also recorded the dashboard losing its lighting. This problem has been rampant in the current iteration, with buyers raising their concerns on NHTSA and trusted platforms, yet there is still no solution that has been introduced by the brand.
- Locking system issues: In a few cases, buyers of the Toyota Tundra Crewmax have also reported the vehicle’s doors locking and unlocking randomly. Where a diagnosis was conducted, an error in the lock actuator was determined as the cause of the issue.
Structural Complaints
- Rear Bumper defect: In the event of an impact on the rear bumper, buyers have reported extensive damage to the bracket. While it is not physically visible, complainants have noted the rear bumper to get damaged excessively if weight is placed on it. This makes it extremely unsafe and to deal with the issue, Toyota has introduced a recall, referenced by NHTSA ID: 17V051000. However, the parts for repair are on backorder, which has resulted in a delay in repair.
Safety Complaints
- Improper functioning of the airbags: Among the Toyota Tundra issues, buyers have reported problems with the airbag system of the truck. While in a couple of cases users have recorded the random deployment of the airbags, in two distinct cases, complainants reported that the airbags had failed to deploy in a crash. Both situations can increase the risk of an injury and require the brand to look into the matter.
2016 Toyota Tundra Crewmax Recalls
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. |
23rd Dec 2021 |
21E103000 |
Oil leak from power steering gear assembly |
Due to an error in the manufacturing process, the power steering gear assembly may leak oil. |
Upon inspection, dealers will replace the power steering gear assembly, free of cost. |
2. |
23rd Nov 2021 |
21V920000 |
Possible loss of power steering assist |
Due to an error in the manufacturing process, the power steering gear assembly may leak oil. |
Upon inspection, dealers will replace the power steering gear assembly, free of cost. |
3. |
29th June 2017 |
17V416000 |
Incorrect bolts in the knee airbags |
In the affected units, incorrect bolts might have been used to attach the knee airbag module to the instrument panel mounting bracket, which can affect its performance. |
Dealers will replace incorrect mounting bolts, free of cost. The recall began on 22nd June 2017. |
4. |
11th May 2017 |
17V311000 |
Defective lug nuts |
In vehicles equipped with the 20-inch Rockstar wheels, the lug nuts may crack and detach. |
Southeast Toyota dealers will replace the lug nuts, free of charge. |
5. |
24th Jan 2017 |
17V051000 |
Rear bumper may break |
In case of an impact to the corner of the bumper, the rear bracket may fracture. |
Dealers will replace the resin bumper reinforcement with steel ones and replace the rear bumper tread, free of charge. |
6. |
9th June 2016 |
16V420000 |
Incorrect load capacity on the label |
The Load Carrying Capacity Modification Label may not reflect the correct added weight of the installed accessories. As a result, the affected units may not comply with federal laws. |
SET will provide a corrected label, free of charge. |
Should you buy the 2016 Toyota Tundra Crewmax?
In an overly competitive full-size pickup truck class, the 2016 Toyota Tundra Crewmax aims at establishing ascendancy. While it falls short of its competitors because of its underwhelming fuel efficiency and stiff ride quality, its oneness lies in its trustworthiness. The truck has a decent number of complaints registered to its name, yet with Toyota’s proactiveness to introduce recalls for recurring concerns, the Japanese option flourishes in the market. So, if you want to buy a dependable vehicle that suits your commercial needs, the 2016 Tundra Crewmax is a no-brainer. But if you want a more comprehensive option that ticks the parameters of performance as well, the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab is a handy choice.