The Best & Worst Toyota Tundra Years [Models]

You will find tips and information in this guide to help you select the right Toyota Tundra. So that you don’t have to worry about categorizing Toyota Tundra models yourself, we’ve spent countless hours doing it.

Its robust power, enduring reliability, and top-notch construction quality set the Toyota Tundra apart from other full-size pickup trucks.

Despite this, the Tundra’s chronology isn’t uniformly regarded. As a result, some model years are excellent and have performed very well so far, while others haven’t.

To help you better understand what each year brings to the table, we’ve laid out a list of the Top and Bottom Toyota Tundra Years.

Toyota Tundra Generations

Generation	Years
Toyota Tundra (XK70, 3rd generation)	2022-Present
Toyota Tundra (XK50, 2nd generation)	2007-2021
Toyota Tundra (XK30/XK40, 1st generation)	2000-2006

Understanding how the Toyota Tundra has evolved over the years by looking at the different generations provides insight into the model’s history.

Many potential buyers can make decisions based on understanding the differences between generations when it comes to design, technology, and general focus.

We have also included a category called “Neutral Years” in this guide. There were some shortcomings with Tundra, but these represent a middle ground.

Aside from one or two notable highs or lows, these model years proved to be average in terms of performance.

Taking that into account, here are the Toyota Tundra years that are best and which Toyota Tundra years are worst.

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Toyota Tundra Best, Neutral, and Worst Years

Generation	Best Years	Neutral Years	Worst Years
3rd generation	N/A	2023	2022
2nd generation	2009, 2010, 2011, 2014, 2017, 2018	2013, 2016, 2019	2007, 2008, 2012, 2015, 2020, 2021
1st generation	2003, 2004, 2005	2002	2000, 2001, 2006

We have analyzed several factors while analyzing each model year for these classifications, resulting in dozens of hours of research. The following are some of these factors:

The following data is based on owner-reported reliability and annual maintenance costs, Consumer Reports reliability scores, Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB), VehicleHistory, and Cars.com owner ratings, as well as NHTSA recalls, investigations, complaints, and Edmunds, JD Power, Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB), and Edmunds reliability scores.

In addition, there are certain factors that have a negative impact on the ranking, such as NHTSA recalls. In a model year with more recalls, reliability issues are more likely, so the score is lower.

As a result of our rankings, we have come up with these final scores.

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Best & Worst Years For Toyota Tundra 3rd Generation 2022 to Present]

A new generation of computers was introduced in 2022. This generation features a futuristic design and advanced technology.

No best years yet

At the time of our last update in 2023, the latest generation is relatively new, and it is still premature to predict which years will be the best.

2023 is the neutral year

There have been no major problems or significant improvements with the 2023 model so far. Despite the Tundra’s reputation, it doesn’t change the game in terms of power and reliability.

2022 is one of the worst years

Some complaints were made about the quality of the interior, as well as minor issues with the infotainment system on the 2022 model. It is well known, however, that Toyota promptly resolves such issues in subsequent models after they are discovered.

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Best & Worst Years For Toyota Tundra 2nd Generation 2007 to 2021]

With the introduction of Tundra’s second generation in 2007, the design is more robust and prominent than its predecessor.

2009, 2010, 2011, 2014, 2017, 2018 are the best years

The Tundra was at its best during these years when it was becoming more fuel efficient, adding more safety features, and offering a powerful 5.7L V8 engine. Among the second-generation models, these models were ranked high in reliability and performance.

2013, 2016 and 2019 were the neutral years

A decent performance was given by these model years, with neither notable issues nor significant advancements.

Although they were reliable and offered solid performance, they didn’t stand out from the crowd.

2007, 2008, 2012, 2015, 2020 and 2021 are the worst years

There were a variety of problems experienced during these years, including issues with the air conditioning and heater systems, premature brake wear, and engine problems.

There was a decrease in reliability ratings and performance due to these issues.

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Best & Worst Years For Toyota Tundra 1st Generation [2000 to 2006]

When Toyota introduced its first-generation Tundra pickup in 2000, it entered the full-scale pickup market.

2003, 2004, 2005 are the best years

The first-generation trucks featured powerful V8 engines with 4.7 liters and spacious double cabs. These years have been marked by high praise for a combination of durability, excellent towing capacity, and overall value.

2002 was a neutral year

Although the 2002 Tundra did not stand out, its reputation for toughness remained intact.

Although it was a great year, it was hindered by minor issues with transmission and brakes.

2000, 2001, 2006 were the worst years

It was a challenging time for the first generation of Tundras at the beginning and end.

There were issues with the exhaust system on the 2000 and 2001 models, and there were problems with the air induction system on the 2006 model, causing the vehicle to perform poorly and be unreliable.

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Common Toyota Tundra Issues 

Tundra owners have reported a few complaints on RepairPal over the years. While owners haven’t reported anything major, a few common concerns have been reported: 

Noise from exhaust manifold (usually when failed)

It has been reported that several Tundra models have ticking noises associated with issues with their exhaust manifolds. Cold engines were also reported to exhibit more of these symptoms.

Lower ball joint recall

It was announced that Toyota would recall 533,000 trucks and SUVs due to malfunctioning lower ball joints. A number of steering and suspension problems were reported as a result of premature wear in the ball joints.

Air injection pump failure

A faulty air injection pump in the engine of the Tundra has been the subject of numerous customer complaints, affecting 11 model years of the vehicle. The air injection pump and emission control valve are some of the most common fixes.

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FAQ

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Conclusion

Through the years, the Toyota Tundra has been a notable vehicle with a lot of innovation.

What is your opinion of the Toyota Tundra? Do you own one or plan to buy one? Please share your thoughts in the comments!