2022 Toyota Tacoma: A Solid Choice but Not Without Its Issues

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma has built a reputation as a reliable and rugged pickup truck, offering an off-road experience many competitors can’t match. However, like any vehicle, it’s not without its issues. If you're considering buying a 2022 Tacoma, it's important to understand some common problems owners have reported. In this article, we’ll go through the common problems, explore how they impact the driving experience, and discuss whether these issues should be dealbreakers.

Many owners still swear by their Tacoma, with some saying the issues are minor in comparison to the overall benefits. Alex Collantes, a proud 2022 Tacoma owner, said, "The truck isn’t perfect, but its reliability and off-road capability make it the best choice for me." Despite such praise, it's worth being aware of some potential drawbacks before you make your decision.

Reliability and Common Problems with the 2022 Toyota Tacoma

While Toyota has a long-standing reputation for reliability, the 2022 Tacoma isn't immune to some frustrating issues. Whether you're an off-road enthusiast or need a dependable work truck, it's crucial to know what problems you might face before diving into your purchase.

Transmission Issues

One of the most commonly reported issues with the 2022 Tacoma is its transmission. Owners frequently complain about delayed shifting and rough gear changes, particularly with the automatic transmission. These problems often occur at low speeds, such as when driving around town or in stop-and-go traffic.

• Problem: Delayed shifting can make acceleration feel sluggish and impact fuel efficiency.
• Reported Symptoms: Jerky transitions between gears, especially from 2nd to 3rd.
• Potential Fix: Some owners have had success with software updates provided by Toyota dealerships, though not all have noticed a significant improvement.

Many drivers find this issue frustrating when commuting or running errands, but some argue it's a trade-off they’re willing to make for the truck's other benefits. As Alex Collantes put it, "Yeah, the transmission could be smoother, but it's not a dealbreaker for me. I still love driving this thing."

Brake System Concerns

Another area of concern for Tacoma owners is the brake system. Several owners have reported spongy brake pedals, making them feel like they have to press harder than expected to bring the truck to a stop.

• Problem: Reduced braking responsiveness may cause concern in high-traffic situations.
• Reported Symptoms: Soft brake pedals, sometimes requiring a harder press.
• Potential Fix: Some owners have had their brake pads and rotors replaced under warranty, which has solved the issue in certain cases.

Although the braking system issue is a common complaint, it seems to vary between vehicles. For some drivers, it’s a small inconvenience, while others feel it could pose a safety risk in certain situations.

Infotainment System Glitches

Modern vehicles often come with high-tech infotainment systems, and the Tacoma is no exception. However, some owners have complained about glitches with the touchscreen interface. Issues include screen freezing, unresponsive controls, and Bluetooth connection problems.

• Problem: Unreliable connectivity and functionality can make using the infotainment system frustrating.
• Reported Symptoms: Difficulty syncing with smartphones, the screen randomly freezing, and delayed responses to touch commands.
• Potential Fix: Toyota has issued updates to the software, which has resolved the issue for some owners.

In the grand scheme of things, infotainment issues may not be a dealbreaker for many truck buyers, especially for those more focused on the Tacoma's performance and off-road abilities. As one driver mentioned, “It’s annoying when the screen doesn’t work, but honestly, I’m more concerned with how this truck handles off-road.”

Suspension Complaints

The suspension on the Tacoma is one of its biggest strengths—especially for off-road enthusiasts—but some owners have noted rough rides and uncomfortable handling on smoother roads. The off-road suspension, designed for tackling rocky terrains, can feel stiff and unforgiving during normal daily driving.

• Problem: The stiff suspension makes driving over potholes and speed bumps feel more jarring.
• Reported Symptoms: Bumpy, uncomfortable rides when driving on city streets or highways.
• Potential Fix: Adjusting the tire pressure or opting for aftermarket suspension upgrades can help mitigate this issue for some owners.

For those who frequently take their Tacoma off the beaten path, the stiff suspension may be a trade-off worth making. Alex Collantes shared his view on this, saying, "The suspension’s not the most comfortable for everyday driving, but it’s perfect for when I’m hitting the trails."

Reliability Concerns for Long-Term Owners

While short-term reliability is solid for the Tacoma, some long-term owners have expressed concerns over how well the truck holds up after a few years of ownership. Some common issues reported by long-term owners include premature rusting in certain areas and paint chipping. Additionally, issues with the transmission seem to become more pronounced after around 50,000 miles.

Premature Rusting

Rust can be a major problem for trucks, especially those exposed to wet or salty conditions. Some 2022 Tacoma owners have reported that their vehicles began rusting prematurely, particularly on the frame and undercarriage.

• Problem: Rust can compromise the structural integrity of the truck.
• Reported Symptoms: Rust appearing on the frame or around the wheel wells after just a year or two.
• Potential Fix: Regular washing, especially after exposure to road salt, and applying rust-proofing solutions can help mitigate the issue.

Paint Chipping

Paint chipping is another long-term issue some Tacoma owners have noted. This issue often occurs on the hood and around the wheel wells.

• Problem: Chipped paint can expose the truck to rust and corrosion over time.
• Reported Symptoms: Small chips and scratches that worsen over time, particularly if not addressed.
• Potential Fix: Regular touch-ups and applying a protective ceramic coating can help prevent further damage.

How Do These Issues Compare to Other Midsize Trucks?

Despite these common problems, it’s important to keep the Tacoma’s issues in perspective. Every vehicle in the midsize truck segment has its drawbacks. Let's take a quick look at how the Tacoma stacks up against its competitors.

2022 Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger offers a smoother ride than the Tacoma, especially on highways. However, it’s been criticized for lackluster off-road performance and a less reliable transmission than Toyota’s trucks. The infotainment system in the Ranger also faces similar issues with freezing and unresponsiveness.

2022 Chevrolet Colorado

The Chevrolet Colorado provides a more comfortable interior and better on-road performance, but its off-road capabilities fall short of the Tacoma. Additionally, owners have reported engine reliability problems and higher maintenance costs over time.

2022 Nissan Frontier

The Nissan Frontier has fewer tech issues and offers a more modern interior, but it lacks the off-road prowess of the Tacoma. Additionally, the Frontier's ride quality can be hit or miss, and it tends to develop steering problems after prolonged use.

Should You Still Buy a 2022 Toyota Tacoma?

When considering the 2022 Toyota Tacoma, it’s important to weigh the reliability issues against the many strengths of the truck. Toyota's reputation for reliability still stands strong, and many owners report years of use with only minimal problems. As Alex Collantes said, "I've had some issues, sure, but when it comes to off-road performance and reliability, this truck is hard to beat."

For buyers focused on off-road performance and durability, the Tacoma is still one of the top choices in the midsize truck market. Its resale value remains strong, and despite some complaints about the transmission and suspension, it’s still seen as a solid long-term investment. Just be prepared to address some of the common problems if they arise during your ownership.

Final Thoughts

While the 2022 Toyota Tacoma is not without its problems, many owners find that the strengths far outweigh the weaknesses. The transmission issues, brake concerns, and infotainment glitches are worth noting, but they don’t necessarily overshadow the Tacoma's ability to tackle tough terrain and perform as a reliable workhorse.

If you're considering buying a 2022 Toyota Tacoma, make sure to take it for a long test drive to see if these potential issues affect your personal driving experience. Additionally, stay proactive with regular maintenance, and you’re likely to have a reliable truck that will serve you well for years to come.

So whether you’re hitting the trails or just cruising around town, the 2022 Toyota Tacoma remains a solid option for midsize truck lovers who value reliability, durability, and off-road performance