Used Toyota Tacoma 3rd Gen (2016–2023): Best & Worst Years, Problems & Prices
Updated · Data: dealer listings, NHTSA complaints and recalls
As of Nov 7, 2026, used 3rd Gen Tacomas (2016–2023) list from a median $26,999 (2018) to $35,907 (2023), with 15,785 for sale at US dealers. Our NHTSA complaint analysis flags 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 as years to avoid and rates 2021 best within this generation. NHTSA lists 15 recall campaigns covering 3rd Gen model years.
3rd Gen Tacoma by model year: price and reliability
| Model year | Median price | Median miles | Listings | Reliability | Complaints | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Tacoma | $35,907 | 43,032 mi | 3,619 | No avoid flag | by year → | 4 |
| 2022 Tacoma | $32,914 | 57,436 mi | 2,432 | No avoid flag | by year → | 3 |
| 2021 Tacoma | $31,815 | 71,048 mi | 2,368 | Best year | by year → | — |
| 2020 Tacoma | $30,777† | 79,936 mi | 1,469 | No avoid flag | by year → | 1 |
| 2019 Tacoma | $29,030† | 89,064 mi | 1,745 | Avoid | by year → | 4 |
| 2018 Tacoma | $26,999† | 98,367 mi | 1,117 | Avoid | by year → | 3 |
| 2017 Tacoma | — | — | 1,609 | Avoid | by year → | 5 |
| 2016 Tacoma | — | — | 1,066 | Avoid | by year → | 4 |
Complaint counts are NHTSA owner complaints for that model year where our per-year dataset covers it; newer years link to their problems page. † From our earlier depreciation listings study (same method).
Common 3rd Gen Tacoma problems
Generation-level component data isn't available yet; these are NHTSA complaint components across all Tacoma model years.
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| Structure | 1,932 |
| Powertrain / transmission | 846 |
- Structure: look under the car for rust or damage around the subframe and rockers, open every door and the liftgate, and check panel gaps for signs of repair.
- Powertrain / transmission: test-drive from cold through every gear and feel for slipping, harsh or delayed shifts and shudder; ask whether the transmission fluid has been serviced.
3rd Gen Tacoma engines
| Engine | Model years |
|---|---|
| 2.7L 4-cyl Regular Gasoline | 2016–2023 |
| 3.5L 6-cyl Regular Gasoline | 2016–2023 |
Source: EPA fuel economy data (fueleconomy.gov).
Other Tacoma generations
More on the Tacoma
Toyota Tacoma 3rd Gen (2016–2023) FAQ
What are the best years of the 3rd Gen Tacoma?
2021, in our NHTSA complaint analysis of the Tacoma's model years. Skip 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019.
What years of the 3rd Gen Tacoma should I avoid?
Avoid 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 — flagged on severity-weighted NHTSA complaints against the Tacoma's other model years.
What are the common problems with the 3rd Gen Tacoma?
Across all Tacoma model years (generation-level data isn't available yet), NHTSA complaints concentrate in structure (1,932) and powertrain / transmission (846). 15 recall campaigns cover these years.
How much is a used 3rd Gen Tacoma?
Median asking prices run from $26,999 for a 2018 to $35,907 for a 2023 (Nov 7, 2026). 15,785 were listed at US dealers.