Ram 1500 vs Toyota Tacoma
For 2005–2021 models, the Toyota Tacoma has 15.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 38.6 for the Ram 1500. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2021), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Ram 1500
38.6 complaints per 10,000 sold
2.5× the Toyota Tacoma’s rate
- Complaints
- 26,404
- Sold
- 6,842,094
- Recall campaigns
- 122
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 4
Most complaints: 2009 and 2018. Fewest: 2007 and 2019–2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 32,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 76,900 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
ABS module and wheel speed sensors
Typically around 85,000 mi · repair $660–$1,260
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 48,500 mi
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 70,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
Toyota Tacoma
15.7 complaints per 10,000 sold
59% fewer than the Ram 1500
- Complaints
- 4,701
- Sold
- 2,996,131
- Recall campaigns
- 30
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2005–2006 and 2008–2009. Fewest: 2014–2015 and 2020–2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body and panel corrosion
Typically around 122,867 mi
-
Subframe, cradle and frame corrosion
Typically around 128,000 mi
-
Coil and leaf springs
Typically around 86,400 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 76,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 32,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Ram 1500 or the Toyota Tacoma?
For 2005–2021 models, the Toyota Tacoma has 15.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ram 1500 has 38.6, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Ram 1500?
The most-reported problem on the Ram 1500 is body control and other modules, typically around 32,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Toyota Tacoma?
The most-reported problem on the Toyota Tacoma is body and panel corrosion, typically around 122,867 miles.
Which Ram 1500 and Toyota Tacoma years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Ram 1500: 2009 and 2018; Toyota Tacoma: 2005–2006 and 2008–2009.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.