Dealer visit checklist
2021 Toyota Tundra checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2021 Toyota Tundra problems to check
- The 5.7L iForce V8 is known to consume oil between oil changes — check levels regularly and verify no consumption issues at purchase
- Secondary air injection pump failures are a documented issue on the 5.7L engine and can trigger check-engine lights, with repairs costing $800-$1,500
- Exhaust manifold cracking is a recurring complaint on higher-mileage Tundras and can cause a ticking noise cold-start, with repairs running $600-$1,200
- Rust on frame and brake lines is a concern in northern salt-belt states — thoroughly inspect the undercarriage before buying any used example
- Infotainment system feels dated with a small 8-inch screen and limited smartphone integration compared to 2021 competitors
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Tundra vehicles.
- STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2022 Sequoia and 2007-2021 Tundra vehicles.
- STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain JTEKT power steering gear assembly service parts for 2007-2021 Tundra and 2008-2022 Sequoia, part numbers 44250-0C160, 44250-0C131, 44250-0C170, and 11250-0C121.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $35,000 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away