Toyota has launched a limited service campaign for some 2005-2008 Toyota Tacomas currently registered in salt-belt-states due to rusting frames. Toyota has received multiple reports of Tacoma frames exhibiting "more-than-normal" corrosion.
On affected vehicles, should the frame rust through to a hole, vehicle safety could be compromised, given that critical suspension components, engine and transmission mounts, and body mountings all anchor to the vehicle's frame. In addition, the vehicle's crash-worthiness and structural integrity could be compromised.
The fix
On affected vehicles, Toyota dealers will remove the surface rust and inspect the frame for rust perforation. Should the frame be found not perforated, dealers will apply corrosion-resistant compounds to the frame at no charge to owners. Should the frame be perforated by rust, dealers will replace the frame at no charge to owners on all affected vehicles. Owners should plan on leaving the truck for a full day for proper inspection and corrosion treatment. Should a truck need a new frame, it will take at least a week to repair, and dealers will provide a loaner car.
States included in letter.
CT. DE. IL. IN. KY. MA. MD. ME. MI. MN. NH. NJ. NY. OH. PA. RI. VA. VT. WI. WV.
Letter reads
Toyota has received reports that certain 2005 through 2009 model year Tacoma vehicles operated in specific cold climate areas with high road salt use may exhibit more-than-normal corrosion to the vehicles frame. Toyota investigated these reports and determined that the frames in some vehicles may not have corrosion-resistant protection sufficient for use in these areas.
This combined with prolonged exposure to road salts and other environmental factors, may contribute to the development of more-than-normal rust in the frame of some vehicles. This condition is unrelated to and seperate from normal surface rust which is commonly found on metallic surfaces after some years of usage and/or exposure to the environment.