Total Complaints
650 filings
TOYOTA TUNDRA · model year
650 NHTSA complaints, 35 crash reports, and 13 active recalls for this specific cohort.
NHTSA overall rating
Not crash-tested
New Car Assessment Program
The 2004TOYOTATUNDRA carries 650 consumer safety complaints in NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation database for this specific model-year cohort. Within that volume, owners reported 35 crashes, 1 fire, 27 injuries, and 1 fatality. No NCAP 5-star crash-test rating is available for this model year in the federal database.
Component-level analysis is where model-year complaints become actionable: the top complaint category for the 2004 TUNDRA is structure:body with 141 filings, followed by suspension (94) and air bags (48). Concentration in one or two component groups is the classic signature of a systemic defect; a flat distribution usually reflects normal aging, warranty complaints, or isolated build-plant variability. This model year has 13 active recall campaigns, which means the manufacturer is obligated to remedy the covered defect at no charge for the life of the vehicle — the full NHTSA campaign numbers are listed below.
NHTSA currently has 51 investigation files overlapping the 2004 TUNDRA, and 1 remain open. Owners comparing this cohort against neighboring years should pair the counters above with the complaint-by-year trend on the parent model page — a spike in a single year often tracks to a platform refresh, a new transmission supplier, or an updated ECU calibration. Use the related-complaint feed below to read raw owner narratives before deciding whether any pattern here affects your specific use case.
Total Complaints
650 filings
Crashes Reported
35 reports
Source
NHTSA ODI
Federal complaints database
Above median complaint volume — review patterns below.
| Component | Count |
|---|---|
| STRUCTURE:BODY | 141 |
| SUSPENSION | 94 |
| AIR BAGS | 48 |
| UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 48 |
| SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT | 46 |
| POWER TRAIN | 36 |
| STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS | 34 |
| STEERING | 20 |
| SERVICE BRAKES | 18 |
| STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS | 17 |
| VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL | 11 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 10 |
| STRUCTURE | 10 |
| SUSPENSION:FRONT | 8 |
| WHEELS | 7 |
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH BOTH VEHICLE STABILITY CONTROL (VSC) AND THE TRD DUAL EXHAUST SYSTEMS. THE TRD DUAL EXHAUST SYSTEM MET ALL CLEARANCE SPECIFICATIONS ON MODELS WITHOUT VSC, HOWEVER THE DRIVER'S SIDE EXHAUST LOCATED IN A POSITION WHERE CONTACT BETWEEN A BRAKE LINE FOUND ONLY ON VEH
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE D
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
ON CERTAIN TRUCKS AND MINI VANS, DUE TO POSSIBLE IMPROPER FINISHING OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT, SOME BALL JOINTS MAY EXPERIENCE AN INCIDENTAL DETERIORATION OF THE INTERNAL LUBRICATION. THIS MAY CAUSE THE BALL JOINT TO WEAR AND LOOSEN PREMATURELY, WHICH COULD RESULT IN INCREASED STEERI
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2010-2016 4Runner, 2003-2006 Tundra, 2003-2013 Corolla, 2009-2010 Corolla Matrix, 2004-2005 RAV4, 2002-2007 Sequoia, 2011-2013 Sienna, 2008-2012 Scion xB, 2008-2009 Lexus IS-F, 2007-2012 Yaris and Lexus ES350, 2010-2017 Lexus GX4
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIAT
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, DUE TO A MANUFACTURING ISSUE IN THE FRONT SUSPENSION LOWER BALL JOINT, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT THE SURFACE OF THE BALL OF THE JOINT MAY HAVE BEEN SCRATCHED. THE BALL JOINT MAY EVENTUALLY EXPERIENCE EXCESSIVE WEAR AND LOOSENESS, RESULTING IN INCREASED STEERING
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
Tenneco Automotive (DRiV) is recalling certain aftermarket ball joints for 2004-2007 Toyota Sequoia and 2004-2006 Toyota Tundra vehicles, MOOG part number K80521, K80522, NAPA part number NCP2601633, NCP2601634, ACDelco part number 45D2344, and 45D2345. The ball joint housing may have inadequate ha
AIR BAGS
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) notified the agency on May 13, 2015, that they are recalling 2005-2007 Lexus SC, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sequoia, and Pontiac Vibe, and 2005-2006 Toyota Tundra vehicles that were originally sold, or ever registered, in Florida, along the Gulf
AIR BAGS
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) notified the agency on May 13, 2015 that they are recalling certain model year 2004 Sequoia vehicles manufactured August 18, 2003, to August 19, 2004, and 2003-2004 Tundra vehicles manufactured March 18, 2003, to August 25, 2004. On June 16, 2015, T
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2002-2005 Lexus SC and Toyota Sequoia, 2003-2005 Toyota Corolla and Tundra, and 2003-2007 Pontiac Vibe vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modul
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES
AIR BAGS:ON-OFF SWITCH ASSEMBLY
CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, 'CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS.' THESE VEHICLES HAVE A MANUAL AIR BAG ON-OFF SWITCH TO DISABLE THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG AND DO NOT HAVE A CHILD RESTRAINT LOWER ANCHORAGE SYSTEM IN THE
The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, there was an abnormal screeching sound coming from the vehicle. The contact then saw sparks coming from the rear driverâs side of the vehicle, and the driverâs side rear wheel was turned sideways. The vehicle was pulled over to the shoulder and was later towed back to the residence. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the contact was informed that the ball joint, control arms, front suspension, and several other unknown parts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The independent mechanic made the contact aware of an unknown NHTSA Campaign Number; however, the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
Mileage: 200,000
The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated that after purchasing tires for replacement, the tire technician stated that the subframe was damaged from corrosion to the front frame, the side members, and the rear subframe. The contact was informed that the most severe corrosion was located on the driver's side front subframe behind the wheel well. The subframe was almost fully rusted through. The contact was referred to a welder by the tire shop. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and issued a customer complaint report. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000.
Mileage: 114,000
Frame rot on the original frame with a recall
The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated that on several occasions, while driving at undisclosed speeds and then parking the vehicle, the contact observed oil leaking from the vehicle. The contact stated that on another occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was inspected, and the contact observed corrosion and holes on the frame of the vehicle, and the motor mounts were rusted, causing the engine to run abnormally low. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the vehicle was flexing due to the holes throughout the frame of the vehicle. The mechanic was unable to lift the vehicle due to the excessive corrosion. The vehicle was deemed unsafe to drive. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Mileage: 150,000
2004 Toyota Tundra. Left rear upper shock mount rotted away and the shock absorber is no longer connected. (rust) Auto Service report 12/30/2024. October 21, 2021 Toyota Dealership report: Recommends replace spare tire cross member. (rust perforation damage) Recall issued for rust and dealership performed a very limited service repair to this vehicle years ago. The recall repair consisted of rust proof paint applied to a very small limited area, not to frame, not to cross member, not to any shock mount) Concerned about rust currently causing the shock mount to fail and the cross member rust damage along with frame rust on the passenger side. 2 different dealerships told me this concern it is not under a recall. This Toyota Tundra truck is well maintained with regular scheduled auto service checks and appointments. It is never used for towing or off road use. I am the original owner, central New Jersey use only. The truck runs and looks good. The high amount of rust under the tru
The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware that the sub frame underneath the vehicle was rusted. The contact was concerned that the sub frame could collapse. The vehicle was taking to the dealer to be inspected. The contact was informed that the sub frame needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 157,000.
Mileage: 157,000
I purchased 4 Cooper Adventurer 265/70R16 tires in 3-2022 from Pep Boys in Mobile, AL. I had a ASE Certified mechanic checked these tires and found there was a bulge on the tread of the passenger front & tread separation on the driver's rear tire. The tires have approx. 17K miles since purchase. Pep Boys refused to replace the 2 tires unless I paid a pro-rated fee which I refused due to the 2 defects out of 4 tires & the limited amount of miles on the tires. Also, I have rotated the tires 4 times since purchased. The mechanic that found the problems checked the shocks & struts and found no issues other that the 2 tires.
Frame is rusting out, only one bolt is holding left frame per tire dealership & Toyota dealer knows of rusting frame. Spare tire underneath fell out while turning on road, thankfully no cars following.
The warranty work done on the frame of my Tundra that has since failed. The Bracket holding my SwayBar has broken off the frame and, more importantly, the frame has rusted to the point where there is now a hole in it. These are areas where the warranty work occurred.
The warranty work done on the frame of my Tundra that has since failed. The Bracket holding my SwayBar has broken off the frame and, more importantly, the frame has rusted to the point where there is now a hole in it. These are areas where the warranty work occurred.
This truck has a frame that is rusting out. It has rust holes and is now unsafe to drive.
I took my truck to a garage for simple tire repair. I had a slow leak. In the process of trying to lift my truck, the technician hear 'crumbling sounds'. They stopped the lift immediately. Upon looking at the my chassis frame, the technicians saw major rust damage. One technician used flashlight to tap against the frame and he poked through it. The technician stated that this was not the first time seeing this problem on this truck model style. I contacted a local dealership. The individual I spoke with at the dealership also confirm rusting issues on the frame of my truck style model. I researched this on the internet to find out multiple complaints concerning the premature rusting of these frames due to poor quality steel and inadequate rust prevention coating. I reached out to my vehicle manufacture "care line". They stated they could not help me. My fear is my frame could break while driving and cause a vehicle accident. The worst frame damage is near the front wheels, b
2004 Toyota Tundraâs Frame is abnormally rusted. The paint and the mechanical function of the vehicle is pristine however the frame has corroded and rusted egregiously. There was a class action suit a few years back but they failed to notify me of the open recall to replace and even on file there was never any pending notice of such recall for my vehicle although it qualified and I have been the only owner of the vehicle.
Noise in front end. Inspection reveals rust holes on the frame rail near the sway bar bracket. Multiple areas rusted through.
The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in for the State Inspection, he was informed that the sub frame underneath the front driver's side door was severely corroded. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and it was determined that the sub frame needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 171,000.
Mileage: 171,000
The contact owns a 2004 Toyota Tundra. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the front driver's side lower ball joint detached, causing the driver's side wheel to separate from the vehicle, and the vehicle lowered to the ground. The vehicle was towed to the residence, where it was diagnosed by an independent mechanic. The mechanic determined that the front driver's side lower ball joint needed to be replaced. The mechanic replaced the front driver's side and passenger's side lower ball joints. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired by an unknown dealer for the same failure. The contact stated that the front driver's side and passenger's side ball joints failed several times while driving and were replaced; however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the contact stated while driving approximately 60-65 MPH, the driver's side ball joint failed, which damaged the running board, the brakes, the driver's side door, the tie rod, the coil springs, the lower control a
Mileage: 140,000
Severe rust to the frame of my 2004 Toyota Tundra SR5 double cab. There are holes through the frame. Took it for an oil change and the mechanic told me to be careful. Crawled under the truck and couldn't believe how bad it was.
I have a 2004 Toyota Tundra SR5 that was part of the frame rust replacement campaign. It was brought into Bob Rohrman Toyota in Lafayette, IN and determined that it did not meet the criterion for replacement. I now have a sway bar bracket that rusted off of the frame. No mechanics or body shops will touch it and I was told there is nothing to even weld a new bracket to and the engine mounts are just a matter of time before rotting away. The truck only has 118k miles and zero body rust. I have lost value in this vehicle because I cannot sell it and the dealership and Toyota both refuse to remedy the situation.
Informed by Al Serra at 4200 Bay Rd in Saginaw, MI 48603 that there are holes present in the frame that pose a dire safety concern. This is a known issue with this model year, but Toyota says the recall is no longer valid.
Informed by Al Serra at 4200 Bay Rd in Saginaw, MI 48603 that there are holes present in the frame that pose a dire safety concern. This is a known issue with this model year, but Toyota says the recall is no longer valid.
Data as of 2025. Sources: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) complaints database, NHTSA recall campaign API, NHTSA NCAP crash-test ratings, and NHTSA FARS for fatality cross-reference.
Read our methodology — how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.