Tundra Engine Failure Analysis

I was thinking about purchasing a tundra for towing my camper, but the failures made me nervous, the last thing I want is to be stuck out in the mountains looking for a tow for my camper and my truck with two dogs. I decided to do a little analysis and share with the group.

Assumptions/Constraints:

• Based off of July 18th 2025 Tundra world spreadsheet
• Some data was incorrectly entered regarding build date, that data was corrected based off model year
• When build date wasn’t available, I used model year.
• Note: model years can have the prior year build dates.

Hybrids: I’ve been hearing that hybrids don’t have as many failures, quick glace and that appears to be true. Big caveat though, how many hybrids have been sold? That information is not available (at least I can’t find). It could be that the low hybrid failures correspond to hybrid sales. The price difference for a hybrid could be enough to keep sales pretty low, thus the low hybrid failures in comparison.

Sample size: I do recognize this does no represent all failures, but only a sample. I have seen some failures in FB and other places, that may or may not be included here in addition to lots of other folks that aren't posting about it. I would love to see how many 3rd gen owner members in this group have not had engine issues and compare that to members that have had failures. That might give enough of a sample size that could represent the larger population.

Conclusion: Based off this analysis, I will likely go ahead and purchase a 25 or 26. There’s a decline after 2023, and 2024s should have enough miles to start showing more failures at this point, considering 50% of failures happen before 50k miles. It does appear that the problem has been mostly fixed. Looking forward to your thoughts.

 

So @sudobash was right!? Say it ain’t so.


Good visual graphs OP

 

This is great data.

 

could it be because the Hybrid helps provide less engine stress with a secondary mode of power for acceleration? I’ve wondered this myself if at least helps

 

Any chance they list the total number of Gen 3 owners on the site? It would help provide a reasonable failure rate if the sample size is reasonable.

 

part of me wishes this site mandated your year and model to be listed for data like that, but would be hard with so many owners not listing a vehicle at all

 

Great data and it contains good news and bad news for me. First the bad news... mine is a late 2022 build (and part of recall) where most of the failures have come from. The good news is that almost 70% of the failures occur after 40k miles. I didn't know that before. I am at 31k now so well below that and might get my engine replaced before that milestone (my phase still TBA). But I have a couple of road trips coming up that still leave me concerned.

 

Thanks for taking the excel data and putting it into graphs. Much more useful.

 

Yeah, it's from this site. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet...XpeUogyH5shM/edit?gid=780956012#gid=780956012

 

Thanks!

 

Who? Me?

 

Definitely be nice to have.

 

Well done, OP

 

great graphs, makes data interp was easier

like that trend line down by model years, lets see how that holds up with miles axis

 

Seems to me the comment I've heard the most frequent is "everything was fine then i stomped on it to pass someone and after I switched back into my lane I completely let off off the gas and then i heard a bad noise". or similar. Kinda like how I spun the bearings on my 1998 Z24!

Also. I was at my dealer today and said my original 22 engine was running fine so I'd probably schedule the swap sometime later this year. Service manager gave me the 'well right now they are replacing with new longblocks, but we expect at somepoint that will change to R*R the existing failed engine so you better book it soon!'. a little fearmongering. but it did prompt me to book it in lol

 

Gotta love a good data nerd

 

this is the wife's daily driver

still on original engine
build date 8-dec-2022
drove off lot 22-feb-2023
mileage @ 15825 on 30-jul-2025 (2 yrs 5 months as of this post)
no towing
80% city (40 mph or less, heavy remote start usage during winters in ND, distance to work 3 miles 1 way)
20% highway (70-75 mph with heads winds always - bismarck or 80-85 mph with headwinds always - fargo)
always fills gas tank at 50% (only use 87 gas, stop filling at pump shut off never topping off, always fill to full)
1st oil change at 1200
2nd oil change at 5000
subsequent oil changes every 5000

stats from fuelly

 

Nice data sort.

Still no visibility on what % of the motors actually fail. I tried to get some info out of the service advisor and they are very coached to be as vague as possible. "how many are being replaced in the shop right now?" Answered with "some". I do know it's not a Chevy Vega situation where all the motors went south but it's not a great situation either.

I'm on a trip right now in the Tundra. Quiet, plenty of power, good MPG's and my wife's choice for the road trip. A Gen 2 drives like crap by comparison and I wouldn't use one as the family hauler. That said, my brakes are pulsing again after Toyo wouldn't fix them the first time under warranty and I do have the passing thought of the motor going dead in Northern Michigan. Other small niggles too.

Still going through the drive it till the bitch blows up vs sell it decision tree.
1/2 tons are just far from solid right now.

 

Really nice area to visit in the summer. We went there two years ago, in the Tundra. We are headed for upstate NY next month and immediately after getting back I'll be driving down to FL again with my engine recall still TBD. LOL. Whistling past the graveyard of 3.4L V-6s without knowing exactly how many ghosts there are.

 

If you want to look at percentage numbers, this seems to be a pretty small amount of trucks (at least cataloged here). Compared to total number of vehicles sold.



Furthermore, if you trust Grok, this is what it pulled. Seems to be in line with the numbers that the OP posted.

### Percentage of Engine Failures in 2022-2025 Toyota Tundras

Determining the exact percentage of engine failures in 2022-2025 Toyota Tundras is challenging due to limited comprehensive data from Toyota or independent sources that cover all model years in this range. However, based on available information from recalls, owner reports, and online discussions, I can provide an informed estimate for the affected model years, particularly focusing on the 2022-2023 models, which have been subject to a significant recall. Data for 2024 and 2025 models is less definitive, as these years are not officially included in the recall, though some owners report similar issues.

#### 2022-2023 Toyota Tundra Engine Failures
- **Recall Details**: Toyota issued a recall in May 2024 for approximately 102,000 2022-2023 Toyota Tundra and Lexus LX vehicles equipped with the V35A-FTS 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 engine (non-hybrid models). The recall was due to machining debris left in the engine during manufacturing, which could lead to crankshaft main bearing failure, potentially causing engine knocking, inability to start, or loss of power.[](https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a...ota-tundra-lexus-lx600-for-engine-issues.html)
- **Failure Rate Estimate**: According to a Toyota filing with the NHTSA (as of May 30, 2024), only 824 warranty claims related to engine issues were identified out of the 102,000 recalled vehicles. This suggests a failure rate of approximately **0.81%** (824 ÷ 102,000 × 100). A Reddit user analyzing the same NHTSA data estimated a failure rate of about **1%** over two years for the recalled 2022-2023 models, which aligns closely with the warranty claim data.[](https://www.haleytoyota.com/blog/th...concerned_3rd_gen_recalled_engine_owners_the/)
- **Production Context**: Toyota produced nearly 230,000 Tundras in 2022 and 2023, with 98,568 recalled, meaning about 43% of these model years were potentially affected. However, the actual failure rate appears much lower, as not all recalled vehicles exhibit issues.[](https://www.haleytoyota.com/blog/the-2022-2023-toyota-tundra-engine-recall-and-what-it-means/)
- **Nature of the Issue**: The problem is attributed to manufacturing debris, not a design flaw, and Toyota implemented new cleaning processes in December 2022 to address this. The recall involves replacing the engines in affected vehicles at no cost.[](https://www.haleytoyota.com/blog/th...0992514/toyota-tundra-lexus-lx-engine-recall/)

#### 2024 Toyota Tundra Engine Failures
- **Recall Status**: The 2024 Tundra models are not officially included in the May 2024 recall, as Toyota claims the manufacturing issue was resolved by February 2023. However, there are anecdotal reports of engine failures in 2024 models, including a case of a 2024 Tundra with a blown engine at 7,000 miles.[](https://www.torquenews.com/1/7000-m...24/01/2022-2024-toyota-tundra-known-problems/)
- **Failure Rate**: No official data quantifies the failure rate for 2024 models. Forum discussions and owner reports suggest failures are less common than in 2022-2023 models, but the lack of a recall or comprehensive data makes it impossible to provide a precise percentage. The issue appears to be isolated, with some owners reporting no problems even at high mileage (e.g., 70,000 miles on a 2024 TRD Pro).[](https://www.reddit.com/r/ToyotaTund...the_2025_tundras_having_engine_problems_like/)

#### 2025 Toyota Tundra Engine Failures
- **Recall Status**: The 2025 Tundra models are not part of the 2022-2023 engine recall. However, there are isolated reports of engine failures, such as a 2025 Tundra TRD Pro Hybrid with a locked engine at 1,528 miles.[](https://www.torquenews.com/1084/so-...rid-headed-out-maryland-made-it-400-miles-and)
- **Failure Rate**: Data is extremely limited for 2025 models, as they are relatively new. Without a recall or widespread reporting, the failure rate cannot be accurately quantified, but it appears to be rare based on current evidence. Some owners speculate that issues may persist due to the continued use of the V35A engine, but no official confirmation exists.[](https://www.reddit.com/r/ToyotaTund...the_2025_tundras_having_engine_problems_like/)

#### Hybrid Models (i-Force Max)
- **Recall Exemption**: The i-Force Max hybrid variants of the Tundra (available across 2022-2025) are not included in the 2022-2023 recall, as Toyota claims the hybrid system provides limited motive power in case of engine failure, reducing safety risks.[](https://www.haleytoyota.com/blog/th...0992514/toyota-tundra-lexus-lx-engine-recall/)
- **Reported Issues**: Despite the exemption, some hybrid owners have reported engine failures, including main bearing issues, suggesting that hybrids may not be entirely immune. However, these reports are less frequent, and no recall has been issued for hybrids.[](https://www.reddit.com/r/ToyotaTund.../toyota-tundra-most-reported-engine-problems/)
- **Failure Rate**: No specific failure rate is available for hybrid models due to the lack of a recall and limited data. Anecdotal evidence suggests failures are less common than in non-hybrid models but still occur.

#### Overall Observations
- **2022-2023 Models**: The best estimate for engine failure rates is around **0.81% to 1%** for the recalled non-hybrid Tundras, based on warranty claims and NHTSA data. This is a small fraction of the 102,000 recalled vehicles, and not all will experience issues.[](https://www.haleytoyota.com/blog/th...concerned_3rd_gen_recalled_engine_owners_the/)
- **2024-2025 Models**: Failure rates are not well-documented due to the absence of a recall. Anecdotal reports indicate that engine failures occur but are likely less prevalent than in 2022-2023 models. The percentage is likely below 1%, but precise figures are unavailable.
- **Hybrid vs. Non-Hybrid**: Non-hybrid models appear more prone to the debris-related bearing failures, though hybrids are not entirely unaffected. The hybrid exemption from the recall may be due to design differences or Toyota’s confidence in the hybrid system’s ability to mitigate risks.
- **Owner Experiences**: While some owners report catastrophic failures (e.g., engines locking up at low mileage), others, particularly with 2024 models, report high mileage without issues. This suggests variability in the defect’s impact.[](https://www.reddit.com/r/ToyotaTund...ine-fails-toyota-giving-white-glove-treatment)
- **Toyota’s Response**: Toyota’s recall for 2022-2023 models involves full engine replacements, and the company claims the issue was resolved for later production. However, a class action lawsuit filed in 2024 alleges that the recall is insufficient and that 2024 and hybrid models may also be affected, raising questions about the full scope of the issue.[](https://topclassactions.com/toyota-...ction-claims-some-tundras-have-engine-defect/)

#### Limitations and Considerations
- **Data Gaps**: Exact failure rates for 2024 and 2025 models are unavailable due to limited reporting and no official recall. Most data comes from owner forums, social media, and news articles, which may amplify negative experiences.
- **Recall Scope**: The 2022-2023 recall covers only a subset of vehicles, and the low warranty claim rate (0.81%) suggests that failures are not widespread, though severe when they occur.
- **Anecdotal Bias**: Online forums like Reddit and tundras.com may overrepresent failure cases, as satisfied owners are less likely to post.[](https://www.reddit.com/r/ToyotaTund...the_2025_tundras_having_engine_problems_like/)
- **Critical Perspective**: While Toyota’s reputation for reliability is strong, the V35A engine issues highlight a manufacturing oversight that has damaged consumer trust. The exclusion of 2024 and hybrid models from the recall, despite similar reported symptoms, suggests Toyota may be underreporting the issue’s scope to limit financial liability.[](https://rvautolegalteam.com/toyota-...ction-claims-some-tundras-have-engine-defect/)

#### Conclusion
For 2022-2023 Toyota Tundras, the engine failure rate is approximately **0.81% to 1%** based on recall data and warranty claims. For 2024 and 2025 models, no precise percentage is available, but failures appear rare and are not covered by the recall, though isolated cases exist. Hybrid models are less affected but not immune. If you’re considering a Tundra from these years, check the vehicle’s recall status via the NHTSA website and consider an extended warranty for peace of mind, especially for 2022-2023 models. For further details on the recall, visit Toyota’s official newsroom or the NHTSA recalls website.[](https://pressroom.toyota.com/toyota...ota-tundra-lexus-lx600-for-engine-issues.html)

If you have a specific Tundra (e.g., VIN or model details), I can guide you on checking its recall status or provide more tailored advice. Would you like me to search for additional real-time data or analyze specific owner reports from platforms like Reddit or tundras.com?

 

Its probably bearing gets spun under heavy load, lasts several seconds with remaining thin film coat and then seizes up and TRAH BABAH!

 

The above subjective pull is good context and you know how use prompts.

We had chicken little gen2 guys ringing the bell with something they found on Reddit that forwarded something from Facebook. The negative bias is strong. Still, there is a problem.

As I’ve enjoyed 1000 miles the past two days driving the Tundra. I rarely think about the risk.

 

It is nice up here.

Curious. It sounds like your ‘23 is in the recall range. Mine is a couple of months out of it. As an owner, would you be less concerned about mine? Thanks.

 

Yes, I am a Nov 22 build so in Phase 7 of the recall, remedy date still TBD. No, I would not be less concerned if I were you. I have always questioned the debris explanation in favor of a design or out of spec part problem. That was just a feeling but now that he-who-cannot-be-named without beer fines is hinting that there is some "fix" being implemented, who knows? It could be as simple as that main bearing going walkabout since they have no locate tabs, but who knows? The unknowns and information gaps are the biggest problems here, IMO. We simply don't know the magnitude of the problem and maybe not even the real cause.

 

Thanks and I agree.

 

Going forward, the spreadsheet is less relevant. Once toyota started replacing engines before they fail, the rate will drop as the marginal units are culled.

 

thats pretty substantial data point. Seems like the moral of the story, the Hybrid combo only having 17 engine failures out of approx 90K units (calculated this number by the most recent recall for tail lights) are pretty good odds and i would recommend to purchase considering by this data point. Just purchases my Tundra 2 months ago, manufactured in Jan of 2025. It is a Hybrid Iforce Max engine. i only have 5K miles on it, changed the oil after 1200 miles initially. will change again at the 6-7K mark, and will replace every 5K after that. I did also purchase an extended warranty and a maintenance package to help offset the increased oil change intervals. well i guess it will really depend how much i drive it. I do very light towing, my trailer only weighs 3K lbs, but i do offroading with my trailer and truck, so im sure it adds stress. I really really like the new Tundra, so i am hoping this engine will prevail to at least 100K miles. Its an impressive truck, sad that they had all these engine failures.

 

Six month sales through June 2025, unit sales of the 2025 model Tundra are 74,966 YTD; they are not failing to any worrisome degree no matter what chicken little says. If yours does, you've got a Toyota backed warranty protecting your backside. Stop worrying and enjoy your Tundra. To have a 100K+ mile truck, you first have to have it for 100K+ miles. That's well into the future. Lightning can still strike, anything can happen, it can be involved in a wreck. Just take care of it for now. When your warranty is nearing expiration, that's the time you can consider your options, and you'll have a lot more history and information to go on at that time. By that time, 2nd and 3rd used truck buyers have forgotten everything, your's will still be thought of with Toyota reliability and stronger resale/trade-in values in mind. Unless you are old it's not going to be your last truck. Your last one wasn't and you probably had the same thoughts about it.

 

Great post @gonecamping! While not perfect data it should alleviate the concerns here and on FB of those posting "Should I buy a Tundra or wait". Even at 1% that is a fairly low failure rate and getting lower on 2024s and 2025s.

I knew about the failure rates when I bought my 2023 and my 2024. What sold me was Toyota was standing behind those failures with a full engine replacement if needed. Do you think Ford, Chevy, Ram, or GM would do the same? Unlikely in my humble opinion.