The final third-gen Tacoma — the smallest complaint file of the run, but a driver-airbag recall that was re-issued means you verify the fix was actually done right.

Carryover from 2022 and a genuine safety item: the rear axle-shaft sub-assembly can separate from the axle housing — debris can cause improperly secured fasteners — risking a loss of stability and brake performance. It covers 2022–2023 Tacomas (Toyota codes 24TB05/24TA05); the remedy is a free inspection, re-torque of the axle nuts, and repair or replacement as needed. Verify by VIN.

A safety-standard recall for family buyers: one or more of the welds in the upper child-seat (top-tether) anchors may be insufficient, which could let a child seat move in a sudden stop or crash. It covers 2022–2023 Tacomas (Toyota codes 22TB09/22TA09); the remedy is a free inspection and reweld as needed. Confirm it's done if you'll use the top-tether anchor.

The one recurring cost item in the small 2023 file. Owners report the steering-rack seals failing and power-steering fluid weeping into the tie-rod boots — one at roughly 52,000 miles, just outside the 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and not covered by the powertrain warranty, so the repair fell entirely on the owner. Dealers describe it as a known issue. Low frequency, but check the power-steering fluid level and look for moisture on the tie-rod boots when buying.

The familiar housekeeping. The V6's plastic coolant-bypass pipe behind the engine can crack — check the passenger side and top of the transmission for a coolant trail; it's covered under powertrain warranty while in term. The six-speed automatic's gear-hunting is a software-and-fluid characteristic rather than a failure (keep the fluid fresh at 60k/6-year intervals). And 040 Super White trucks peel at the door frames, inner fenders, and A-pillars — covered by Customer Support Program 23TE08 (a quiet, extended coverage program) for 2016–2022 Tacomas (verify a late-2022-built or early 2023 truck's eligibility against the program's exact scope).