2009 Tacoma Frame Rust

I just learned from my mechanic that the frame of my ‘09 Tacoma TRD Off Road—purchased in 2019–is seriously rusted in two locations (behind the front wheels where the frame begins to curve upwards). One of these sections might need to be cut out. If I understand correctly, it is not be eligible for repair by Toyota under the class action since the truck was purchased by me after 2016. Am I right? My mechanic gave me the name of a shop that specializes in frame repairs. I also noticed some fairly inexpensive frame repair/reinforcement kits online. Other than this frame rust issue, the truck is in great shape with only 145K miles, perfect body, etc. Can anyone tell me what my options are and hazard guesstimates on the price of same. Thanks. Boogs

 

I believe the recall is for 12 years from the day of first use. (Day it sold)
You might be eligible for a replacement, but time is running out quickly.
I’d call the dealership and inquire.

Read more here.
http://www.toyotaframesettlement.com/

 

I’d also make an account on the Toyota website.
Once you enter your VIN it should tell you the date of first use.
( My point is, don’t take the dealerships word as 100%)
Do your research.

 

You might have just missed the 12-year cutoff period :-( Search the forum for all the rusty frame info you could want, and suggestions as to possible next steps. Good luck!

 

Thank you everyone for your info and tips. Very helpful.
Boogs

 

Good luck! I battled Toyota Canada about my 06 Tacoma and they still wouldn’t help me. They told me I wasnt the original owner so I wouldn’t have had a notice mailed to me. Funny thing is they sent me the other recall notices including the first inspection.The person in customer service said “ you’ve had 13 years of service from your truck, that’s a reasonable amount of time” I missed the deadline for the second inspection so they won’t help me. I never new that there was going to be another inspection/ frame replacement. My dealer has been fighting for me as well with no luck. For this reason I won’t buy another Toyota. I try and discourage anyone from buying one . I love my 2018 tacoma but when the warranty is up I’m gonna sell it. I don’t trust Toyota anymore.

 

Thanks again to all. It turns out I just missed the cutoff date for the class action settlement. Had I known about the rust in April of this year I would have been within the 12 year window from original date of purchase. Sounds like it might have been an uphill battle with Toyota in any case. Luckily the extent of the damage is more limited than my mechanic led me to believe, according to frame specialist who estimated a cost of 900-1500 to splice in and weld reinforcing metal to the affected areas. I’ll go for that and then probably be hosing the salt off weekly.

 

https://www.autorust.com/product-category/toyota/tacoma-2005-2015-2nd-gen/

 

@PennSilverTaco

this man can help you!!