Vacuum Pump

Thanks for the info. Yes, very frustrating. At least it appears relatively easy to replace.

 

Technically you can replace insides for $30.
This member did it.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...e-item-120k-miles.815269/page-2#post-30561068

 

You know there's a maintenance booklet that came with your truck?

The vacuum pump was "on condition" for 2016, until issues were reported and Toyota had a recall on it, then it got added as a scheduled replacement in the maintenance booklet in later years. Access entails unbolting the transmission mount and tilting the engine+transmission forward slightly.

It's a maintenance item in the same vein as timing belt replacement on older engines (like the 2UZ 4.7L V8).