The 2024 Toyota Tacoma has been praised for its rugged capability, modern tech features, and reliability – traits synonymous with the Tacoma nameplate. However, as of early 2025, many owners and prospective buyers are raising concerns about potential transmission problems, leading to a central question: Is there a recall on the 2024 Tacoma transmission? In this comprehensive article, we’ll dive deep into current information from Toyota, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and firsthand owner experiences to give you a clear and detailed answer.
Understanding the 2024 Tacoma and Its Transmission Setup
The 2024 Tacoma underwent a major redesign, introducing a completely new platform (TNGA-F) and updated engine options. While previous generations of the Tacoma were known for their straightforward and dependable 6-speed automatic transmissions, the 2024 model introduced a new 8-speed automatic transmission developed in collaboration with Aisin. This new transmission aims to improve fuel efficiency and driving dynamics.
However, with any new mechanical component, there’s potential for teething issues or unforeseen problems. In the early months following the 2024 Tacoma’s release, some owners reported transmission-related anomalies.
Preliminary Reports and Consumer Complaints
Prior to any formal recall, early indicators often come from customer complaints filed with NHTSA or social media forums like Tacoma World, Reddit, or Toyota-specific owner groups. In the case of the 2024 Tacoma, several common complaints related to the transmission emerged, including:
- Delayed or erratic shifting between gears
- Unusual shuddering or jerking during gear changes
- Transmission hesitation at low speeds
- Occasional check engine lights tied to transmission performance codes
While not all owners have reported these issues, the consistency of some complaints has raised concerns among both consumers and automotive watchdogs.
Industry Response and Diagnostics
Toyota dealerships across the nation have reportedly seen increased service visits related to the 2024 Tacoma’s transmission. Some dealers provided software updates or reprogramming solutions as a temporary remedy, but the situation has been inconsistent.
The company itself has remained tight-lipped in terms of an official statement on a widespread problem. As of the latest public information in early 2025, Toyota has not issued a national recall specifically targeting the 2024 Tacoma’s transmission. However, that does not mean the issue has gone unnoticed.
Official Recall Status According to NHTSA
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the federal agency responsible for monitoring vehicle safety in the United States and handling vehicle recall processes. It is the most reliable source to confirm whether a recall has been issued on any particular vehicle component.
2024 Tacoma Recall Listing
As of April 2025, NHTSA has documented the following recall actions specific to the 2024 Toyota Tacoma:
- Recall ID 24V-547: Steering wheel vibration issue related to unbalanced wheels or components in certain 2024 Tacoma models. Issued in late October 2024.
- Recall ID 24V-685: A potential issue with the vehicle’s side airbag deployment in low-severity crashes. Issued in February 2025 affecting certain 2024 models.
Neither of these recalls are related to transmission system malfunctions.
NHTSA Investigation Status
There is a known ongoing investigation by NHTSA (ID: 24V-645) into possible transmission issues affecting the 2024 Toyota Tacoma. This investigation is actively collecting consumer complaints and working with Toyota to assess whether a defect exists that warrants a recall. The typical NHTSA investigation process includes the following steps:
- Preliminary Evaluation: Complaint analysis and data review (currently ongoing)
- Engineering Analysis: Technical inspection and failure analysis
- Potential Recall: If a defect is found, NHTSA may order a recall
Consumers are encouraged to file complaints or experiences directly with NHTSA at https://www.nhtsa.gov to help bolster these investigations.
Possible Transmission Issues Reported by Owners
While no official recall has been issued, anecdotal evidence from owners has helped paint a clearer picture of what drivers may experience. Here are some of the most frequently reported transmission concerns with the 2024 Tacoma:
1. Delayed or Hesitant Shifting
Some 2024 Tacoma owners report delays when shifting from park to drive, especially in cold weather or after startup. This lag has been described as an unexpected pause that may be disconcerting while driving in urban or stop-and-go traffic.
2. Jerky or Improper Gear Changes
Many reviews and forum discussions detail erratic shifts between gears. Owners have noted the transmission slipping, hesitating, or feeling out of sync, particularly between first and second gear and while accelerating from a stop.
3. Shuddering or Tugging Sensation
A pronounced shudder or tug during gear changes has been reported across multiple 2024 Tacoma variant trim levels. These vibrations are often experienced during highway driving when shifting into overdrive or when downshifting at semi-high RPMs.
4. Check Engine Light Illumination
Reported cases of a “Check Engine” light illuminating – some linked to transmission control module (TCM) errors – have prompted dealership diagnostics. In some instances, dealers reprogrammed the TCM and reset the system, suggesting that Toyota is aware of software inconsistencies even if it hasn’t formally announced them.
Toyota’s Official Response and Service Actions
Although no recall has been issued, Toyota has taken note of customer feedback. According to insiders and service reports, Toyota has authorized technical service bulletins (TSBs) for certain dealerships to address transmission performance issues. A TSB is not a recall, but it indicates that Toyota has identified a specific concern and has issued instructions to dealers on corrective actions.
One such TSB, issued in late 2024, addressed “Transmission Harsh Engagement or Shift Concerns” for some 2024 Tacoma models. According to the bulletin, certain vehicles may benefit from:
- Reprogramming the TCM (Transmission Control Module)
- Updating the software for smoother engagement and shifting algorithms
- Flushing and recalibrating the transmission fluid level
These are preventative and reactive measures, not outright hardware fixes, but they are indicators that Toyota is actively mitigating some reported concerns.
Warranty Coverage for Transmission Issues
Even if there is no formal recall, Toyota does offer robust warranty protection that may assist owners dealing with premature transmission issues.
1. New Vehicle Limited Warranty
The standard warranty for the 2024 Toyota Tacoma covers defects in materials and workmanship for the first 36 months or 36,000 miles. This includes major mechanical components like the transmission.
2. Powertrain Warranty
The 2024 Tacoma includes a powertrain warranty that extends coverage for engines, transmissions, and driveline components for up to 60 months or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.
3. Emission Components Warranty
A separate coverage plan lasts up to 96 months or 96,000 miles depending on location, focusing on emission-related systems, which may include components involved in transmission control and hybrid systems (if equipped).
What Owners Should Do if They Experience Transmission Issues
If you’re a 2024 Tacoma owner dealing with transmission problems, here are concrete steps you can take:
1. Visit an Authorized Toyota Dealer
Even if no recall is in effect, reporting the issue at an official Toyota dealership can help trigger diagnostic tests and potential software updates. If enough owners follow this step, it can help expedite a formal investigation or recall process.
2. File a Complaint with NHTSA
Visit the NHTSA website and file a formal complaint. This is crucial for gathering data that prompts formal investigations into component defects.
3. Document the Problem
Keep logs, note error codes, and take videos of the issue in action. These records may be helpful for warranty claims or for future class-action lawsuits if applicable.
4. Reach Out to Toyota Customer Service
Contacting Toyota directly can also help establish a case for future resolutions. You can reach Toyota customer support at 1-800-331-4331.
Future Outlook: Will There Be a Recall Soon?
Given the rising number of complaints, the pending NHTSA investigation, and internal dealership updates, it is very possible that a formal recall may be issued later in 2025.
Toyota historically has been proactive in initiating recalls when safety or reliability issues are significant. The company’s response to the ongoing issue with the 2024 Tacoma transmission will likely hinge on:
- The number and consistency of consumer complaints
- NHTSA’s investigation findings
- Internal diagnostics and production line adjustments
- Feedback from engineers and dealers regarding the TSBs’ effectiveness
If early signs indicate a systemic or potentially safety-affecting transmission flaw, the likelihood of a recall increases dramatically.
Conclusion: Is There a Recall on the 2024 Tacoma Transmission?
As of April 2025, there is no official recall issued by Toyota on the 2024 Tacoma’s transmission. However, there is a growing body of user reports and an ongoing NHTSA investigation that could lead to a formal recall or extended TSB in the future.
Toyota has issued technical service bulletins to address some shifting behaviors and performance inconsistencies, suggesting the company is aware of the issue and is exploring solutions.
If you own a 2024 Tacoma and suspect transmission-related problems, take the vehicle to an official service center and document your concerns. You may still be covered under warranty, and your report can aid further investigations that might ultimately benefit the entire owner community.
For the most up-to-date information, consumers should register their vehicles with Toyota, sign up for recall notifications from NHTSA, and keep up with reputable automotive news and recall tracking sites.
In the end, the 2024 Tacoma remains a strong contender in the midsize pickup truck market, but transparency and safety should always come first. Keeping informed empowers drivers to make the best decisions possible.
What is the current status of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma transmission recall?
As of the latest updates from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Toyota’s official communications, there is no official recall specifically targeting the transmission of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma. Toyota continuously monitors vehicle performance and addresses any issues that arise through technical service bulletins (TSBs) or proactive maintenance solutions when necessary.
However, vehicle owners have reported certain concerns, including transmission hesitation, unusual noises, and occasional shifting problems. While these issues have not yet resulted in a formal recall, Toyota may be gathering data and evaluating potential causes. Owners are encouraged to stay informed by checking NHTSA’s website or Toyota’s recall portal regularly for updates.
What transmission problems are being reported for the 2024 Tacoma?
Some 2024 Toyota Tacoma owners have reported transmission-related issues such as delayed engagement when shifting from park to drive, rough shifting, transmission whining noises, and difficulty when towing heavy loads. These issues tend to appear more frequently under certain driving conditions, such as when the vehicle is cold or under heavy stress.
While these reports are not widespread enough to trigger a formal recall, they are being monitored by consumer advocacy groups and independent forums. Toyota has not officially acknowledged a systemic defect in the transmission system of the 2024 model, but early feedback may influence future actions, including software recalibrations or hardware adjustments.
What should I do if I’m experiencing transmission issues with my 2024 Tacoma?
If you’re experiencing transmission problems with your 2024 Toyota Tacoma, the first step is to contact your local Toyota dealership or authorized service center. Technicians can check for any related technical service bulletins and inspect your vehicle for potential fixes or known issues. It’s also important to maintain a record of all service visits and concerns communicated to the dealership.
In addition, report your issue to NHTSA through their official website or hotline. Collecting consumer complaints helps regulatory agencies determine if a safety-related defect exists and whether a recall is warranted. Keeping your vehicle under warranty will also ensure that any future manufacturer-issued repairs are covered, should a recall be announced.
Has Toyota issued any technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the 2024 Tacoma transmission?
Yes, Toyota has issued a few technical service bulletins that are relevant to the 2024 Tacoma, although none specifically target a widespread or urgent transmission defect. TSBs often contain guidance for dealerships on diagnosing and resolving performance inconsistencies, including those related to transmission behavior under certain conditions.
TSBs are not the same as recalls and are typically not mandatory for vehicle owners to address. However, they offer valuable insights into known issues and recommended fixes. In some cases, dealerships may perform TSB-related repairs at no cost, especially if the issue is common and affects drivability. Owners should ask their service department about any pending TSBs related to their vehicle’s VIN.
Could future recalls affect the 2024 Tacoma transmission?
While there is no recall on the 2024 Tacoma transmission at this time, it’s possible that future recalls could be issued if a pattern of defects is confirmed. Regulatory agencies and automakers often take several months to analyze data and determine the root cause of reported issues before initiating a recall.
If ongoing consumer complaints or internal Toyota testing reveals a consistent, safety-related malfunction in the transmission system, the automaker may voluntarily issue a recall. Vehicle owners can sign up for recall notifications through Toyota’s official website or NHTSA to stay updated in case of future developments.
Are there any class-action lawsuits related to the 2024 Tacoma transmission issues?
As of now, there are no confirmed class-action lawsuits specifically targeting the transmission of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma. However, a growing number of forum discussions and consumer complaints may indicate a potential for legal action, depending on the volume and severity of future reports.
Consumer law firms are often on the lookout for patterns in vehicle defects, and if enough Tacoma owners report similar issues—especially those ignored by the manufacturer—legal representation could emerge. Owners who believe they’ve been affected by a defect are encouraged to document their experiences and consult with a qualified attorney if they suspect a pattern of neglect or faulty design.
How does the 2024 Tacoma transmission compare to previous models?
The 2024 Tacoma features a newly redesigned transmission system as part of a broader overhaul of the vehicle’s powertrain lineup. Toyota introduced a more advanced 8-speed automatic transmission option, replacing older 6-speed units in some configurations, promising smoother performance and improved towing capability.
Preliminary feedback has been mixed, with some drivers praising the improved efficiency and smoother shifts, while others have noted unfamiliar behaviors such as hesitation or irregular shifting patterns. Comparisons with earlier Tacoma models suggest a change in feel and function, which can lead to both praise and criticism depending on driving habits and expectations.