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2015 Toyota Tacoma Review: The Highest-Rated Compact Truck with Excellent Reliability

Rating: 4.62
Based on 100 Owner Reviews β–Ά
Simon A | March 31, 2025
The 2015 Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck known for its reliability and off-road capability. Part of the second generation (2005-2015), it's available in Access Cab and Double Cab body styles. Key trims include the base SR, SR5, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road. New, it ranged from roughly $20,000 to $32,000. Its reputation for durability and strong resale value make it a popular choice, especially for those seeking a dependable truck for work or recreation.
The Good

The 2015 Tacoma boasts impressive reliability and off-road prowess, appealing to practical buyers seeking longevity and capability. Its rugged design and proven track record evoke a sense of adventure, attracting those who value a dependable and capable truck for both daily tasks and weekend excursions. Strong resale value adds to its appeal.

The Bad

The 2015 Tacoma's weaknesses include a somewhat dated interior, less comfortable rear seating in Access Cab models, and potential for rust issues, especially in regions with road salt. Fuel economy isn't class-leading. Also, the four-cylinder engine can feel underpowered when hauling or towing. Watch out for frame rust and check maintenance records.

2015 Toyota Tacoma: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.7L I4: 159 horsepower, 180 lb-ft of torque
    • 4.0L V6: 236 horsepower, 266 lb-ft of torque
  • Horsepower: 159 hp (I4), 236 hp (V6)
  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
    • 2.7L I4: 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
    • 4.0L V6: 17 mpg city / 21 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times (estimated):
    • 2.7L I4: 9-10 seconds
    • 4.0L V6: 7-8 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 6,500 lbs (with V6 and tow package)
  • Trim Level Features:
    • SR: Basic features, steel wheels, cloth seats, basic audio system.
    • SR5: Adds chrome exterior trim, upgraded audio, and more comfort features.
    • TRD Sport: Sport-tuned suspension, hood scoop, color-keyed exterior trim, sport seats.
    • TRD Off-Road: Off-road tuned suspension with Bilstein shocks, locking rear differential, skid plates, and off-road tires.
    • Limited: Leather seats, premium audio system, and more luxury features.
  • Transmissions: 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic (I4), 6-speed manual (V6), 5-speed automatic (V6)

2015 Toyota Tacoma Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2015
Make Toyota
Model Tacoma
Trim -
Style Double Cab 4WD V-6 6-Speed Manual
Type Pickup Truck
Category Small Pickup Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In Mexico
Manufacturing City TIJUANA
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 1877.87 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 2494.76 kg
Overall Height 178.05 cm
Overall Length 528.57 cm
Overall Width 189.48 cm
Wheelbase Length 323.6 cm
Standard Seating 5
Engine & Performance
Engine 4.0-L V-6 DOHC 24V
Engine Size 4L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 6-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Manual
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $27,155 USD
Invoice Price $25,157 USD
Delivery Charges $885 USD

Vehicle History Report

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Analysis

What Problems Does the 2015 Toyota Tacoma Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2015 Toyota Tacoma, and for the second generation in general, include rust issues, particularly on the frame. Owners should inspect the frame thoroughly, especially in areas where road salt is used. There have been recalls related to leaf springs that could crack and potentially damage brake lines or cause accidents. Some owners have also reported issues with the electronic stability control system. Premature rear differential failure has also been noted by some owners, although this is less common.

Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the aforementioned rust issue. Regular maintenance, including rustproofing and undercarriage washes, is crucial for extending the life of the vehicle. While the engine and transmission are generally reliable, some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission shifting erratically at higher mileage. Regular fluid changes can help mitigate these issues. Overall, while the Tacoma is generally reliable, addressing potential rust problems is essential for long-term ownership.

How long will the 2015 Toyota Tacoma last?

With proper maintenance, a 2015 Toyota Tacoma can easily reach 200,000 miles or more, potentially lasting 15-20 years. Regular oil changes, fluid checks, and timely repairs are essential. Long-term durability is generally excellent, but frame rust remains the biggest concern. Neglecting rust prevention can significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan. The engine and transmission are typically robust, but suspension components and other wear items will require replacement over time. Careful owners can expect many years of reliable service from their Tacoma.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2015 Toyota Tacoma's tech is somewhat dated compared to newer trucks. Standard features include a basic audio system with CD player and auxiliary input. Higher trims offered a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. There are no advanced driver-assistance systems like automatic emergency braking or lane departure warning available.

Safety features include standard antilock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional features included fog lights and daytime running lights. Crash test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA are generally good for this model year, though specific ratings vary depending on cab configuration. The IIHS gave the 2015 Tacoma Access Cab a "Marginal" rating in the small overlap front crash test. Double Cab models fared better. While not packed with cutting-edge technology, the 2015 Tacoma offers adequate safety and basic entertainment features for its time. The focus remains more on reliability and capability than technological innovation.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Super White
Black
Magnetic Gray Metallic
Silver Sky Metallic
Barcelona Red Metallic
Inferno
Quicksand
Attitude Black Metallic
Interior Colors
Graphite
Gray
Black

2015 Toyota Tacoma Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2015 Toyota Tacoma ranged from approximately $20,000 for a base SR model to $32,000 for a fully equipped Limited or TRD Off-Road. Used market prices currently range from $15,000 to $28,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim. The Tacoma holds its value exceptionally well due to its reputation for reliability and durability. Low mileage, excellent condition, and desirable features like the V6 engine and TRD packages command higher resale prices. Depreciation is significantly lower than many competitors, making it a relatively sound investment.

2015 Toyota Tacoma Cost of Ownership

The 2015 Toyota Tacoma is relatively economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate. Fuel economy is decent, but not exceptional. Maintenance is generally affordable due to the vehicle's reliability. Repairs are usually less frequent and less expensive compared to some competitors. Long-term ownership costs are lower than average due to the truck's durability and strong resale value. Rust prevention is a key factor in maintaining low long-term costs.

2015 Toyota Tacoma Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 79.87 liters
City Mileage 6.38 km/l
Highway Mileage 8.08 km/l

2015 Toyota Tacoma Safety Rating

IIHS
Roof Strength Test Results Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Good
Small Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Good

2015 Toyota Tacoma Recalls & Defects

Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2014-10-22
Recall no. 14v663000
Source NHTSA
Summary Gulf States Toyota, Inc. (Gulf States) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2015 Toyota Tacoma Vehicles Manufactured September 2, 2014, TO October 15, 2014. THE Affected Vehicles MAY Contain AN Incorrect Load Carrying Capacity Modification Label. AS A Result, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims FOR Passenger Cars."
Consequence AN Incorrect Label MAY Result IN THE Vehicle Being Overloaded, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Gulf States HAS Notified Owners, and Dealers Will Install AN Accurate Label, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began December 1, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Gulf States Customer Service AT 1-800-444-1074.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Tires
Recall date 2015-02-23
Recall no. 15v099000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2015 Tacoma Pickup Trucks Manufactured August 7, 2014, TO December 22, 2014. THE Affected Vehicles MAY Have HAD Their Tires and Wheels Changed TO TRD PRO Accessory Tires and Wheels, Causing THE Inflation Information ON THE Tire Placard TO BE Incorrect Which MAY Result IN THE Tire Being Improperly Inflated. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims and Motor Home/Recreation Vehicle Trailer Load Carrying Capacity Information FOR Motor Vehicles With A Gvwr OF 4,536 Kilograms (10,000 Pounds) or Less."
Consequence Improperly Inflated Tires MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Send A Revised Tire Placard With Correct Tire Size and Inflation Information TO Owners, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 13, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Wheels
Recall date 2015-02-23
Recall no. 15v099000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2015 Tacoma Pickup Trucks Manufactured August 7, 2014, TO December 22, 2014. THE Affected Vehicles MAY Have HAD Their Tires and Wheels Changed TO TRD PRO Accessory Tires and Wheels, Causing THE Inflation Information ON THE Tire Placard TO BE Incorrect Which MAY Result IN THE Tire Being Improperly Inflated. AS Such, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) NO. 110, "tire Selection and Rims and Motor Home/Recreation Vehicle Trailer Load Carrying Capacity Information FOR Motor Vehicles With A Gvwr OF 4,536 Kilograms (10,000 Pounds) or Less."
Consequence Improperly Inflated Tires MAY Increase THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Send A Revised Tire Placard With Correct Tire Size and Inflation Information TO Owners, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 13, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment
Recall date 2014-12-30
Recall no. 14v828000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2014-2015 Toyota 4runner, Tacoma, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Rav4, Scion Frs, and XB Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles MAY Have Accessories Installed BY Set, Such AS Running Boards or Other Items, That Were Incorrectly Installed. THE Accessory Attaching Fasteners Were NOT Tightened With THE Proper Torque, Possibly Causing THE Accessory TO Detach From THE Vehicle.
Consequence Accessories That Detach From A Vehicle MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash And/Or Personal Injury.
Remedy SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect and Tighten THE Affected Bolts, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 23, 2015. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-866-405-4226. Set's Number FOR This Recall IS Set-14b.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:body:hood:hinge and Attachments
Recall date 2017-07-03
Recall no. 17v425000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain 2011-2016 Toyota Tacoma and 4runner Vehicles Equipped With Accessory Hood Scoops Installed BY SET or SET Dealers. THE Adhesive Attaching THE Hood Scoop MAY Weaken, Allowing THE Hood Scoop TO Detach From THE Vehicle.
Consequence IF THE Hood Scoop Detaches, IT MAY Become A Road Hazard, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Mechanically Fasten THE Scoop TO THE Hood, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 1, 2017. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-954-429-2000. Set's Number FOR This Recall IS Set17b.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment
Recall date 2017-07-03
Recall no. 17v425000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain 2011-2016 Toyota Tacoma and 4runner Vehicles Equipped With Accessory Hood Scoops Installed BY SET or SET Dealers. THE Adhesive Attaching THE Hood Scoop MAY Weaken, Allowing THE Hood Scoop TO Detach From THE Vehicle.
Consequence IF THE Hood Scoop Detaches, IT MAY Become A Road Hazard, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Mechanically Fasten THE Scoop TO THE Hood, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 1, 2017. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-954-429-2000. Set's Number FOR This Recall IS Set17b.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2015 Toyota Tacoma Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2015 Toyota Tacoma Insurance

Insurance for a 2015 Toyota Tacoma is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Pickup Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2015 Toyota Tacoma Compare to Other Pickup Truck?

The 2015 Toyota Tacoma competes with the Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon, Nissan Frontier, and Honda Ridgeline. In terms of reliability, the Tacoma generally surpasses its rivals, particularly the early Colorado/Canyon models. The Frontier is a similar, albeit less refined, alternative. The Ridgeline offers a more comfortable ride and better on-road handling but lacks the Tacoma's off-road capability and truck-like image.

In terms of features, the Tacoma lags behind the Colorado/Canyon in technology and interior refinement. Performance-wise, the V6 Tacoma is competitive. Price-wise, the Tacoma often commands a premium on the used market due to its strong reputation.

Alternatives to the 2015 Tacoma depend on priorities. If off-road capability and reliability are paramount, the Tacoma is a strong choice. If a more comfortable ride and modern features are desired, the Honda Ridgeline or a newer Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon might be better options. The Nissan Frontier offers a more budget-friendly alternative, but with fewer features and a less refined experience. For someone looking for a smaller truck with good fuel economy, a used Subaru Baja may be considered, but note that the Baja is a significantly older vehicle.

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Final Verdict: Is the 2015 Toyota Tacoma a Good Pickup Truck?

The 2015 Toyota Tacoma is ideal for buyers seeking a reliable and capable mid-size truck with excellent resale value. It's especially well-suited for those who prioritize off-road capability and durability over modern technology and interior comfort. It's generally worth buying used, especially if a thorough inspection reveals no significant rust or mechanical issues. The TRD Off-Road and Sport trims are desirable for their enhanced features, but even a well-maintained SR5 can provide years of dependable service. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always recommended.

2015 Toyota Tacoma Owner Reviews

4.62
Overall rating
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Ldp on June 12, 2024

I have 94000 miles on mine, but the 3rd starter is going

I have 94000 miles on mine, but the 3rd starter is going out. Why do i have a new factory start go bad every 3 years.

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John on March 18, 2023

Tried and True

Could afford a new vehicle but I really enjoy my 2015 Tacoma, also use it to tow rv and utility trailer. It’s a 4x4 trd. With 5’ bed and cap.

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Gustavo on May 19, 2022

Bad gas mileage

Gas mileage sucks. I'm only getting 10 mpg on my 2015 toy Tacoma in the city. The mileage is worst than a diesel semi truck. No doorlock on the passenger side and that is a pain in the...... Not so much torck. Any little hill will sit back the truck.

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Addam76 on April 7, 2021

Toyota’s Are the Best

First truck I have had in 15 years. It rides smooth and pulls great. So far the gas has been pretty good for a truck. Nice sleek design but still rugged enough to do what I need.

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Guy who needed a truck on April 5, 2021

I love this tocoma truck

Only thing I’d change is seat height , I’m 6’1Ò€ and ya gotta do the neck crunch to get in , bid deal I own a Toyota Tacoma

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Inferno TRD on March 8, 2021

Very satisfied

This truck still looks good and gathers attention after 6 years. I can’t remember any problems with this truck. I would only add that I wish I had a more adjustable seat .

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Steeler on January 18, 2021

Great truck

The computer in this truck wants to turn off and drop calls and then turns back on all by itself! I had one update on it at about 100,000 miles.

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Igor-B on January 15, 2021

Very reliable.

I have owned Tacoma for 5 years, I bought it new. No even single issue since, it's very reliable. I just wish it would have more power, or 8-speed automatic transmission.

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Hardet on November 14, 2020

The Toyota Tacoma TRS has what I want

I will never get stuck while driving this truck. It is comfortable and has everything I need in a truck. In the country or in the city, this is a reliable vehicle.

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Sammystacoma on August 31, 2020

My Tacoma has always been there

Great vehicle to own!! It’ll last an eternity if well maintained!! Smooth ride!love the handling of the ride and how it responds to all roads!

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Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.