Solution to a non-existent problem?

I'm reading there is now a TRD lift, that is "validated to be compatible with the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) system". Link: https://pressroom.toyota.com/step-up-new-tacoma-trd-lift-kit-now-available/

I understand this lift comes with what looks a lot like a "pro" style grille to re-align the TSS sensors. Aside from that it is a set of upgraded shocks and leaf spring blocks.

My question is this: Is this a solution to a non-existent problem? That is, within the scope of moderate/ similar "about 2 inch" or so lifts?

 

I have a little over 2" lift with my ADS coilovers. My TSS has never known the difference and works just fine. For reference, I am using the factory 2020 OR grill.

 

I'm not a Toyota engineer so I'm just guessing at this answer. The TSS sensor probably has a range of conditions it works most of the time. If you take a stock Tacoma and load the back way down and just squat your truck badly in the back that changes the angle but doesn't cause TSS failure. I added a winch and lost 3/8" inch on the stock front height causing a changed angle and height with no TSS impact. Larger tires effectively increase sensor height but nobody is reporting TSS issues. There are lots of stock trucks that swapped to the pro grille and effectively lowered their TSS without problem. I think the stock range on the TSS is wide enough that you can get away with many normal/harsh variables without impacting performance.

An engineer probably looked at the operating range and said, if we make a significant change to the height of the sensor with this lift we can't guarantee it works in all the original use situations. If this is going to be a warrantied and for all intent 'factory' lift then we need to try and get the TSS back to the middle of it's operating range so some bonehead doesn't compound issues and have a problem (then sue for a gorrillion dollars or open up a ton of warranty liability).

Just my guess: Like most things, probably a liability shield/risk mitigation.

 

@PinStripes. Thanks. Makes perfect sense and I suspected so.
@Traction gave provided some good real world information.

 

I doubt Toyota considers people choosing to lift their Tacos independently, as their problem. My guess is the only reason they got in the game was because they realized it’s a huge market and they wanted a slice of the pie. With that said, of course they’ll make sure everything works as it’s designed to with the TSS.

 

When deciding how to spend $1300 on a lifted suspension my first choice isn't a pair of Bilstein shocks, lift blocks for the rear axle, a pretty plastic grill that places the radar emitter lower, and blackouts for the fog lights. The TRD lift only does one thing I want the lifted suspension to do (clearance for 33s). For nearly the same price, I can get the full OME 2" kit with Dakar leaf - which provides clearance and increased weight capabilities both front and rear for bumpers, racks, etc. My 2017 has the OME 2" kit and I am perfectly happy to do that again if there are no real TSS issues.

I should have rephrased the question to ask "does anyone with a mild/moderate lift actually have a problem with TSS".