Can My Toyota Tundra Really Be a Lemon?

What Toyota Tundra Owners Need to Know

The Toyota Tundra is one of the most popular full-size pickup trucks in California, valued for its durability and towing capacity. But like many trucks, the Tundra has experienced recurring defects and mechanical problems that leave owners frustrated.

If your Toyota Tundra has spent more time in the shop than on the road, you may have rights under California’s Lemon Law.

Common Toyota Tundra Defects Reported by Owners

California Tundra owners frequently report the following issues:

Transmission Problems – Harsh shifting, slipping, or hesitation during acceleration.
Engine Issues – Excessive oil consumption, ticking noises, loss of power, or stalling.
Fuel Pump Failures – Certain model years recalled for defective fuel pumps that may cause the truck to lose power while driving.
Brake Problems – Premature wear of pads and rotors, soft brake response, or master cylinder issues.
Electrical Malfunctions – Problems with sensors, lighting systems, and infotainment units.

The Most Problematic Engine: Model Years 2022+ Tundra V35A Twin-Turbo 3.5L V6

For the 2022 and newer Tundra models, the most serious defect concerns the non-hybrid V35A twin-turbo 3.5L V6 engine.

Recalls & Safety Issues

Toyota recalled more than 100,000 2022–2023 Tundras with this engine due to machining debris left in the crankshaft, which can cause main bearing failure.
Symptoms include knocking noises, rough running, stalling, and even complete engine failure at highway speeds.

Hybrid V6 (i-FORCE MAX)

The hybrid i-FORCE MAX version uses a variation of the same 3.5L twin-turbo V6. These models were not included in the recall and so far appear less problematic, though long-term reliability is still being evaluated.

Other Reported Issues

Throttle lag – Hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
Turbocharger failures – Wastegate actuator problems leading to whining noises or power loss.
Electrical glitches – Check engine codes, rough idling, and sudden power loss.

Real-World Reports: Toyota Tundra Engine Problems

A 2023 SR5 owner reported a catastrophic engine failure at just over 21,000 miles, with the truck suddenly decelerating at highway speed.
Another driver said their engine blew at 16,000 miles, was rebuilt, and failed again at 26,000 miles.

These cases show how serious the 2022+ engine defects can be often leading to months of downtime and repeated dealership visits.

Recalls Affecting Toyota Tundra Owners

Toyota has issued multiple recalls impacting Tundra trucks in recent years, including:

Fuel Pump Recall – Covering hundreds of thousands of vehicles, including the Tundra, due to risk of stalling at highway speeds.
Brake System Recall – Involving potential failures in the brake master cylinder or components, reducing braking performance.
Engine Recall – Specific to 2022–2023 non-hybrid V6 Tundras, linked to engine bearing failures and catastrophic breakdowns.

Even after recall work is completed, some owners report the same problems returning, leading to repeated service visits.

From California Owners: Toyota Tundra Transmission Problems

A Tundra owner in Los Angeles reported repeated transmission hesitation and harsh shifting. Despite three dealership visits and software updates, the issue persisted, and the truck spent over 35 days in service in the first year.
In Sacramento, a Tundra owner experienced brake failure after only 18,000 miles. The dealership replaced components twice, but the spongy brake feel returned within weeks.
A San Diego driver had ongoing engine stalling problems tied to the fuel system. After two recalls and three repair attempts, the truck continued to lose power at highway speeds, creating a major safety concern.
In the Central Valley, a contractor with a 2022 Tundra reported electrical failures, including dead batteries and malfunctioning sensors, which kept the truck in the shop for more than 45 cumulative days in one year.
Several 2022–2023 Tundra owners reported catastrophic engine failures under 30,000 miles, often requiring complete engine replacements and leaving trucks sidelined for months.

These stories are unfortunately common and highlight how Tundra owners may qualify for lemon law protection.

Summary Table of 2022–2024 Toyota Tundra Defects

MODEL YEAR	ENGINE TYPE	COMMON DEFECTS & RECALLS
2022	3.5 VS Twin-Turbo (Non-Hybrid)	Engine bearing failure recall, turbocharger failures, throttle lag, electrical glitches.
2022	3.5L VS Hybrid (i-FORCE MAX)	Fewer reported engine issues; some electrical and infotainment system complaints.
2023	3.5L V6 Twin-Turbo (Non-Hybrid)	Expanded engine recall, stalling, complete engine failure at low mileage.
2023	3.5L V6 Hybrid (i-FORCE MAX)	Generally excluded from recall; ongoing throttle and sensor-related complaints.
2024	3.5L V6 Twin-Turbo (Non-Hybrid)	Continuing complaints of throttle lag, turbo whine, and electrical malfunctions.
2024	3.5L V6 Hybrid (i-FORCE MAX)	Early owner reports suggest improved reliability; still some throttle response concerns.

How California Lemon Law Protects Toyota Tundra Owners

California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (Lemon Law) protects consumers when their Tundra suffers from substantial defects that are not repaired after a reasonable number of attempts. You may qualify for relief if your truck has:

A warranty-covered defect that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety,
Undergone multiple repair attempts for the same issue, or
Been out of service for 30 or more cumulative days.

If your case qualifies, you may be entitled to a buyback, replacement vehicle, or financial settlement.

What Tundra Owners Should Do

If your Toyota Tundra has repeated problems:

Save all repair orders and receipts from the dealership.
Track downtime — note every day your truck is undrivable or in the shop.
Take photos and videos of the defects whenever possible. Visual evidence of stalling, dashboard warning lights, leaks, or unusual noises can strengthen your case.
Consult a California Lemon Law attorney to understand your options.

California recently passed AB 1755, a law that shortens the deadline for filing a Lemon Law claim. Consumers must now file WITHIN ONE YEAR OF THE WARRANTY’S EXPIRATION DATE, making timing critical. Delaying could cost you your rights.

TAKE ACTION NOW: Get a FREE Consultation Today

At RV Auto Legal Team, we fight for California consumers stuck with defective vehicles. If your Toyota Tundra is experiencing recurring problems, you may qualify for protection under California Lemon Law. Contact us today for a free consultation. We only get paid if we win your case.

Serving All of California: Call 1-858-544-2292

Can My Toyota Tundra Really Be a Lemon? Yes, It’s True!