Toyota Tundra Reliability: How Long Will It Last? - VehicleHistory (2024)

Warren Stoddard II

Feb 16, 2022

A well-maintained Tundra is expected to last between 150,000 to 250,000 miles on average. But reaching 300,000 miles is not out of the norm. Plus, there are at least two documented cases of a Tundra–both 2007 models–reaching over a million miles.

Toyota Tundra Reliability: How Long Will It Last? - VehicleHistory (1)

Key Points

  • Two Toyota Tundra owners reached the million-mile mark, but most drivers should expect to see their Tundra top out at around 300,000.
  • Common problems in high-mileage Tundras are exhaust manifold leaks and ball-joint failure.
  • Repair prices for the Toyota pickup are low.

Toyota Tundra Reliability: How Long Will It Last? - VehicleHistory (2)

Toyota’s Flagship Pickup Offers Reliability and Ruggedness that Should get the Trucks to Well Over 200,000 Miles

The Toyota Tundra has a reputation for reliability and has even proven useful as a military vehicle in war zones. The modern Tundra and its diesel cousin, the Hilux, are so ubiquitous on contemporary battlefields for one reason: Whether shot up or shrapnel shredded, they keep going. And, of course, this ruggedness and reliability equal longevity.

Many reputable automotive sources have reported on the lifespan of a Toyota Tundra, and from the overall analysis, you can expect a Tundra to last between 150,000 to 250,000 miles on average. Reaching 300,000 miles is not out of the norm, if the truck is well-maintained.

Popular fan forums like Tundra Talk support this number, with many Toyota Tundra owners mentioning their trucks reaching between 250,000 and 300,000 miles.

Also, one recent report on the auto industry’s longest-lasting vehicles includes six Toyotas in its 16-vehicle list. The Tundra is ranked in ninth place, with 3.7% of all Tundras sold expected to last over 200,000 miles.

In one case, a 2007 Toyota Tundra famously reached 1,000,000 miles in 2016 (yes, one million), owned by a man who regularly drove the Tundra 125,000 miles annually since he purchased it new.

Toyota took the truck back to disassemble and inspect its inner workings, while gifting the previous owner a brand-new Tundra. So, nobody knows how far it could have gone. A second 2007 Tundra hit a million miles in 2019, although this one did not have the original transmission when it reached the threshold.

The average Tundra owner, however, should expect their Tundra to reach somewhere around the 200,000-mile mark. But they shouldn’t be shocked to see the odometer hit 300,000 miles and keep churning along if they choose to push it that far.

Maintenance is key, so when buying a used Tundra where pristine maintenance schedules may not have been observed, drivers should probably expect more expensive problems to start popping up around the 200,000-mile mark.

Toyota Tundra Reliability: How Long Will It Last? - VehicleHistory (3)

Maintenance and Repair Considerations Center around Exhaust Manifolds and the Timing Belt

The Tundra, as such a long-lasting vehicle, has relatively few issues when it comes to a maintenance schedule. It is simple: ensure the oil is changed, make sure the tires are road-worthy, but owners should be certain to change the timing belt at 100,000 miles or their engines’ could see their lifespans shortened exceptionally. Once an engine is out of time, its parts each become individual ticking bombs, waiting for failure.

Reported problems are similarly scant, but issues do exist. The most common concern is the exhaust manifold. Exhaust gaskets frequently fail for some drivers of Tundras produced from 2000 to 2012, leading to a ticking sound coming from under the hood, and an exhaust leak.

This usually happens for most drivers around 95,000 miles, though the reported range is anywhere from 5,000 to 250,000 miles.

Another problem to look out for is an issue with failing lower ball joints, which received premature wear from imperfections in manufacturing. The recalls related to this issue affect model years from 2002 to 2006, though there have been reported instances of ball-joint issues outside this range.

If the ball joint fails, drivers will see dramatically reduced suspension performance, possibly making the Tundra uncontrollable.

Other reported issues with Toyota’s pickup include air injection pump failure and faulty oxygen sensors, though these are less frequent than the ball joint and exhaust manifold problems. In all, however, problems with the Toyota Tundra are few.

The trucks are consistently rated among J.D. Power’s most reliable. Repair Pal quotes the average cost of maintenance at $606—not bad for something that might take you to a million miles.

The Tundra’s Rugged, War-tested Durability and Dependability Make it one of the Longest-lasting Peacetime Trucks Ever

How many trucks can go a million miles? Not a lot. The Tundra is one of them. And though most drivers shouldn’t expect to see their odometers roll over back to six zeroes, they wouldn’t be asking for too much if they wanted to see it hit 300,000.

Properly maintained throughout its lifetime, this is what most Tundra drivers should be getting, though shorter and longer outliers exist.

Realistically, 250,000 miles for a well-maintained Toyota Tundra is as sure as the sunrise before repair bills and age-related wear lead drivers to retire those wheels.

Photos: Toyota

Owner Reviews

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Disappointed Tundra owner on April 14, 2024

Depends on yourdealerships service department

This is on my 07 Tundra SR5 5.7 Crewmax 2wd. Up until a little over a year ago, I was still satisfied with this Certified pre-owned that I bought in 09. About a year ago I needed a new starter. Not a DIY part if you don't have a lift. The starter in behind the exhaust manifold on the passenger side. Bought the part through the dealership and had them replace it. Issue #1 they claimed the exhaust manifold had to be replaced due to "natural corrosion". This was only after I took it back saying it had an exhaust leak that it didn't have before. At first they wanted over $800 until I raised hell and they dropped it down to over $500. This put me at $2000 to replace the starter. Then I still noticed a ticking on the same side of the engine. Again, they don't mention anything when they tell me the truck is "ready". So, I take it back and after 30 days they say it's a hydraulic lifter, not covered under the "lifetime powertrain warranty " because certain things weren't done. Even though I asked everytime if anything else needed to be done each time I called to setup an appointment for the service. The only thingsrecommended through the years, coolant replacement, had them do it. Rear-end serviced, had them do it. Spark plugs, air filter, cabin air filter, brakes, items that I did, always keeping all the paperwork. Oh, and they also said the warranty company refused due to the tires hadn't been rotated on schedule, the paperwork was in the glove box too. Never knew that causes a lifter to fail. Truck only has 168,000 miles. Bottom line, you can't trust what they say or don't say when you ask. I would like to sell or trade it, but my conscience won't dump something with a major part issue onto someone that is hoping to get a trustworthy vehicle. Now the clear coat is peeling off. For the price of vehicles in general, car, truck or SUV, it's a bigger investment than it was compared to a few short years ago. I can only hope the rest of it will hold together so I can keep using it for who knows how much longer. If you live in Knoxville TN, don't trust Toyota Knoxville. P S. They had a list provided by the warranty company of apparently several things needed to be done throughout the years and they didn't provide me with it.

Lisa on March 28, 2024

I had to park mine in early March 2024

I was the original owner of my 2000 Tundra Limited. I live in snowy cold Calgary, Alberta Canada. I managed to put 506,000 kms/ 314,000 miles on it. The engine is in great shape, would run another few years. Mine succumbed to the now well known problem of faulty corrosion treatment on the frame. Its almost rusted through on the rear left. I didn't want to have to buy a replacement vehicle right now, I wanted to also keep the Tundra after I decide to get another vehicle. I used expound the wonderful quality of Toyota. At this point I'm not impressed with how Toyota handled their factory defect on these trucks. I did NOT buy another Toyota. My loyalty is gone.

Glenn W on September 26, 2021

Twelve years and my 2007 Tundra is still going strong!

I've owned my Tundra for more than 12 years now and I love it just as much as I did when I bought it. It has been incredibly reliable throughout the years. I have done little more than general maintenance to keep it on the road. The fuel efficiency has declined over the years but it still runs great.I've been rough on the truck, used it for work, landscaping, off road etc. And it has never let me down. I have 189k miles on the truck and I hope to double that number. I would highly recommend buying a Tundra to anyone looking for a tough, reliable, full sized pickup truck.

Jim on July 25, 2023

Tundra 2005 4.7 liter engine 4WD

I am the original owner of the 2005 Tundra and I have more than 449,000 miles. While most miles are highway miles there are some hard 4WD miles on the truck. I still have the original transmission, u joints. I am replacing alternator. Have had to replace ball joints, oxygen sensor, air pollution control sensors and several bearing packs due to WDing. Still has good compression and power. I change oil and fix what is needed. I had a front axel seal replaced and brake master cylinder. I hope the truck will last a couple more years.

AnnMarie L on October 30, 2021

2011 Tundra - A super reliable truck! With 200,000 miles on it, we know we will see 300,000.

We have put over 200,000 miles on this truck. It has not cost us much outside of regular maintenance. We have replaced the front shocks, and repairs have been made at two different times to an electrical issue with the 4wd. This repair was very minor, though finding the issue the first time was costly due to time involved. It ended up being a wire that rubbed and thus broke. No time fixing it the second time. One wire on the left; one wire on the right. Now both are repaired!

sean O on September 7, 2021

Reliable, dependable, tough.

Extremely reliable vehicle never had any issues or problems. Interior is comfortable and the material is tough to kids, dogs and everything else. Have not experienced any rust problems yet or any mechanical issues, only issues I have are with the electronics with the console itself. I will always buy Toyota for the resale and the dependability over domestic any day. Oh and the towing and hauling capability are the best out there.

Dan Carr, Bakersfield, CA. on December 20, 2022

394,000 and going strong

The 5.7 Liter is a strong engine. I'm getting ready to turn 400K on my 08 Tundra double cab 2 wheel drive, and today is the first time I have had to cancel work because my truck lost the alternator. It's the original one. It still has the original starter, AC compressor, power steering pump, Most of the miles are freeway miles. I also have 15 Tundra DC, it's a good truck also, but I like my 08' better.

2003 Toyota Tundra 4.7

Single cab long bed SR5. 310,000 miles. Purrs like a kitten. Tow, haul, highway, city. Bought her back in ‘08 with 113,000 miles. Regular maintenance. Original AC compressor, alternator, power steering pump, starter, and radiator. Biggest thing was the exhaust system needed to be replaced at 300k. I’m up in New England so lots of time on my back fighting the rust. She’ll run forever.

Steven W on June 23, 2021

I've had 2011 Tundra for seven years now. I hope to keep it for another ten or fifteen.

First of all, I like having a big bed in the back of the truck. I can haul lumber, trash, and just about anything I want. Another thing that I like is that I have a double cab. With a family of five, we really need that second row of seats. Finally, being a Toyota, it's been a very reliable vehicle. As for dislikes, the gas mileage is about sixteen. I wish that it was a better than that.

Jen on August 9, 2023

01 Sequoia limited

Built like a tundra, just a lot more space for baby gear. Bought in 04 with 38000 miles. Has a few body issues, but only because it had no garage/cover. The engine still purrs. Currently at 370 000miles. Will always go Toyota! My line up includes a 2009 Highlander and the newest member... 2021 Tundra!

Tom Neves on December 17, 2022

2001 Tundra

My Toyota TundrA has 403.000 on it. ALL ORIGINAL miles. I am a neurotic person when it comrs to regular maintenance. My only question for my mechanic is when do i possibly drop another engine in it? This has been very reliable and only basic things have happened to it. Have to give it a 5 star rating.

Aladino Mandoli on January 22, 2023

225k and smooth!

‘07 Tundra, 5.7, with 225,000 miles. In the North country where six months of snow isn’t unexpected nor is 200”-300” of snow. Yoop. I have no doubt that 300k is in our future. When that day does finally comes, and it’s time to say goodbye, like the Terminator, “I’ll be back.”

Paul H on June 11, 2021

It's an extremely safe dependable and reliable vehicle that will last you the next 10 + years with very limited wear and tear

I drive a red Toyota Tundra that has four doors. I dislike the fact that it cost me $637 a month! However, I love Toyota because they're extremely Dependable vehicles! I have driven many different makes of trucks, but I have never found one more reliable and dependable than the Toyota brand!

Kevin on August 22, 2023

2002 and 2007 Tundra in my stable

My 2002 has been my dedicated work truck since 2003, it has 190,000 miles on it's 4.7L My 2007 was purchased in 2017 with 270,000 miles on it's 5.7L ... Mileage is 313,000 now The 2002 is 4WD, the 2007 is 2WD. Both are reliable and rust free. Both are excellent vehicles.

Micah A on February 11, 2022

My 2014 Tundra has been nothing but reliable.

My fuel mileage is okay but in this day in age I would expect a transmission with more speeds. Other manufacturers have gone to 8-speed transmissions for their automatics. I do however understand that horsepower and torque have a trade-off when dealing with fuel economy.

David B on October 14, 2021

One dependable 2007 Toyota Tundra.

Tundra is 11 years old and running strong. The only maintenance required to pass inspection this year was clearing the discolored headlight covers. Have only performed oil changes and air filter changes since I purchased this vehicle. Would definitely buy another Tundra.

Dave on February 22, 2023

2015 Tundra Limited 4x4 Double Cab

425,000 miles and still running strong and looking good. Had the fuel pump replaced (a known problem with some) and the battery replaced at about 5 years. Engine is still tight and no leaks of any kind. Mine has a 4 inch lift and installed Bilstein nitrogen gas shocks.

Hugo Morales on February 8, 2024

2008 Toyota Tundra 5.7 límited

My Toyota Tundra full cab 2008 5.7 with 5157.59 work like a beast hauling a trailer with 3 tons, worth what I pay for ,today is a sad day the valve have an issue Finally the engine lasts enough for what was built I’m happy with my Tundra , I will put a new Motor

Rafy Ramos 🇵🇷 on February 22, 2023

Great Truck

I had own my 2000 Tundra for almost 24 years. It’s a very good and reliable truck. Bough it originally to have more space in the cab to move my twins around and still have a working vehicle. It has over 400,000 miles and still going strong.

Best reliable Work truck Ever!

I bought my 2009 Tundra new with 50 miles, I know have 320,000 . Ive had all the trucks out there ford chevy Dodge. The tundra is by far the best truck for reliability and everyday use. I Highly recommend Toyota Products! They are the best!

Adam on November 13, 2023

Reliability and Performance

Looking to consider a new truck but maybe not do much. May upgrade to a used model like a 2020. Had a 2007 and traded if in for a 2010.Had a reasonable opportunity to upgrade and did. Today with 260k miles. Could not be happier.

JR, Bakersfield CA on October 28, 2022

2006 Tundra - my third Toyota truck.

Just paid $8K for this one-owner 2006 four-door Tundra with 197K miles. Having owned four Toyota trucks over the years, I feel that this is money well spent. Looking forward to at least another 100K miles. I do love my Toys.

Jeremiah R on July 11, 2021

Tough, durable, 2019 Toyota tundra.

My truck is very reliable. It has great gas mileage for a full size truck. This vehicle has a heads up display, Cruz control assist, navigation, rubber floor mats and other amazing options. Reliable is the best word for it.

Sandra L. on September 15, 2022

Nineteen Years Old and Tundra Still Going Strong

I have a 2003 Toyota Tundra, 6 cylinder, extended cab, 2 WD with approximately 231,000 miles and it's still going strong! I was able to get 400k off of a previous Toyota and hoping for the same on this vehicle.

Jacob C on November 1, 2021

2019 Toyota tundra very reliable but a gas guzzler.

The 2019 Toyota tundra is very reliable. I've had 0 technical issues with it. The trim package also increased the gas tank to over 30 gallons. The only issue is the gas mileage is bad, even for a larger truck.

cate J on November 27, 2021

Toyota tundra is a comfortable, reliable, vehicle, that will runs for decades!

My 2018 Toyota tundra is my favorite vehicle I have ever owned. It is 100 percent reliable. My fiance and I got it for reliability and how spacious it is. With having children, extra space is a must!

Samuel L on February 11, 2022

2007 Tundra is the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned.

I have owned many vehicles in my life, but the Toyota tundra is hands down my favorite. I have not had a single mechanical issue in 10 years, and I plan on driving this vehicle for the next 20.

Matt B on January 22, 2022

Great truck to drive as a forever truck.

Very dependable truck. Best truck I have ever had. Would only drive a Toyota truck moving forward. Only issue I have had is the alternator going out at 120k, other than that perfect truck.

Victor mark on February 20, 2022

Victor.m0718@gmail.com

Everyone seemed to agree the the Tundra is the most reliable. Not!. My2011 Platinum was a headache. At 60k miles, engine leaks and bad catalytic replacement had Disappointed me very much.

Jeff Fuller on November 30, 2023

2017 Toyota tundra 5.7

Best truck I have ever owned. I work in the logging industry and I drive a lot of miles and rough miles. My Tundra has 336,000 thousand miles all I have done is put a/c great truck.

Richard carper on March 17, 2022

Retired

Toyota does not come out with alot of new features and gimmicks they stick with simplicity and reliability tried and true if you want thrills and whistles shop somewhere else

Mike D on December 26, 2021

Best truck in the market!

Very comfortable and reliable. Best truck out there! The drive is very smooth and quiet. I would highly recommend this truck to anyone looking for a full sized truck.

Matthew C on June 10, 2021

Durable, reliable and tough 2016 Toyota Tundra

This vehicle is great especially for outdoor living where you are able to off road and travel through dense woods. It is very durable and tough and a great vehicle.

Joel O on November 21, 2021

The dependable nature of the truck.

I love the reliability, the ride, and all the safety features. The one drawback is the fuel economy. Bad. Overall the truck is very dependable and is as advertised.

Tom on April 9, 2024

14 years 251,000 miles

I've had this truck new. Everything original but radiator. 1 engine light for purge valve. Did it myself. It's a hunting ,fishing, camping and all around truck.

John in Mississippi on May 31, 2022

18 years and as tough as ever!

Over 425,000 miles and I can't complain about a thing on my 2004 Double Cab 4 WD Tundra! Not going to look for another truck until it hits twice that mileage!!

Karen S on September 17, 2021

My 2015 tundra is the best truck I have ever driven.

My Toyota tundra looks sporty for a big truck. It drives smoothly and it is very reliable. I feel like I can go anywhere in my truck in comfort.

Julio Herrera on March 7, 2023

Good truck

Have 2013 ?tundra with 150,000 miles and still super strong. Only put 2batteries .alternator and front brakes and drums that's it.

Sam from ofallon Missouri on March 16, 2024

Tundra

I put 800,000 on my 2007 tundra 5.7 with no major issues and now have 2011 with740,000 miles with no major issues great trucks

Amy S on July 14, 2021

Size, dependable, and reliable vehicle that is a beast in Maine winters.

I love the size of the vehicle, that its dependable, and reliable. No complaints at all and would buy another in a second.

Alan L on January 9, 2022

Very Dependable good looking truck

Dependable and durable. The truck has help up with little repair cost I've enjoyed driving it. Comfortable and smooth ride

Chris A on December 8, 2021

That it's tough and so d**n reliable - I will be buying a Toyota Tundra again and again!

Love that its reliable and can easily tow our travel trailer. I would be nicer if rode smoother (less like a truck).

Claude G on July 30, 2021

The most important thing about my 2007 tundra is that its reliable.

I love that it is a big truck but good on gas. I also love the reliability of my Tundra.

Warren Stoddard II

Warren Stoddard II is an avid enthusiast of vintage vehicles. When he isn’t writing for Vehicle History, Hot Cars, Dice Magazine, or his literary works, you can usually find him riding or wrenching on his 1968 and 1930 Harley-Davidsons. When the weather is bad, he takes his ’67 Dodge D100.Following his graduation from Texas State University in 2018, Warren’s writing has been featured in The Antonym, Into the Void, and numerous publications around the globe, where they have received several honors. He is the author of the novella No Birds in Yesterday, and the short-story collection A Good Place on the Banks of the Euphrates.

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