2020 Toyota Tacoma: Power Train complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 15 owner complaints for the 2020 Toyota Tacoma that list the power train component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11754665 (filed 08/04/2026): “The clutch in the manual transmission makes a "creaking" noise, and you can feel it when driving too, when depressing the clutch pedal... the creaking noise is annoying, but the feel of the creaking is very distracting when driving the manual transmission, depressing the creaky clutch can distract y…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11730338 (filed 04/10/2026): “Fluid weeping/leaking/staining on differential housing…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11716242 (filed 02/06/2026): “I am having same issue as the incident i found here 12/06/2025, listed under complaints-i live in rio rancho nm- concern it involves the automatic transmission torque converter specifically torque-converter lock-up behavior, the issue presents as a vibration/shudder during steady -speed driving , we…”
Likely causes
These complaints do not establish a single root cause; read the examples above and get a diagnosis.
Fix, in plain English
No single fix is established by these reports. Check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs) or extended warranty coverage, then have the system diagnosed.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Diagnosis needs a scan tool; repair or replacement needs a lift, transmission jack and the manufacturer's fluid fill/relearn procedure. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range for this issue. Get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
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Sources
Page last updated .