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One GMC Sierra owner ditched his truck because it had too many problems and bought a 2025 Toyota Tundra. Did he make the right choice?
Justin Beaton on the 2023-2026 Toyota Tundra Owners Facebook page says,
“I’ve always had a Toyota or a Lexus. But in February, I bought a GMC Sierra. Never again, the truck was a piece of junk. So, I picked up this 2025 Toyota Tundra Limited on Saturday. I hope I made the right decision swapping the GMC Sierra for the Toyota Tundra after hearing about its engine problems. So far, I like it, but that grill has to go.”
Justin’s story isn’t unique—after a bad experience with a GMC Sierra, he’s back in a new Tundra and hoping for that legendary Toyota reliability. I’ve heard countless stories just like his, but is his faith in Toyota well-placed, or will he be disappointed?
Let’s tackle his main concern right away: the talk he’s heard about the engine problems. I know the headlines can be alarming, but it’s crucial to separate the noise from the facts. When Toyota released the new third-generation Tundra for the 2022 model year, a significant number of the V35A twin-turbo V6 engines were found to have a manufacturing defect.
This was due to machining debris left inside the engine during the production process at the Huntsville, Alabama, plant. This could, over time and under high loads, lead to main bearing failure. However, a major point to remember is that this was a manufacturing issue, not a design flaw.
Toyota acted quickly and decisively, issuing a recall for the affected 2022 and early 2023 models. The fix was not a patch or a temporary solution; they are replacing the affected engines at no cost to the customer. More importantly, Toyota implemented new cleaning processes at the plant to ensure this issue doesn’t happen on vehicles produced since February 2023.
Since Justin’s truck is a 2025 model year, it was built well after this issue was identified and corrected. So, his concern about the Toyota Tundra’s V6 engine reliability is entirely valid, but his new truck shouldn’t be affected by that specific manufacturing issue. He’ll get to enjoy the power and efficiency of this engine without any of that early-production drama.
What about the i-FORCE MAX hybrid system?
His Tundra Limited is equipped with the standard i-FORCE V6, but for those reading with a hybrid version, it’s worth noting the distinction. The Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine problems you might have heard about are essentially nonexistent.
The hybrid version of the V6 engine was not part of the recall because its production process and components are different enough that they didn’t have the same debris contamination issue. This further underscores that Toyota has a solid grasp on this new powertrain technology.
This brings me to the broader conversation about the common issues with the 2023-2024 Toyota Tundra. Every vehicle launch has its share of growing pains, especially when it involves a complete redesign from the ground up. I’ve heard from countless owners, and the complaints today are minor. Things like wind noise from the side mirrors (which Toyota has addressed with a fix), infotainment glitches (common across all modern vehicles), and some minor trim issues.
These are far from the catastrophic failures he experienced with the GMC Sierra.
This is where Toyota’s reputation is expected to shine. Instead of leaving owners stranded, the Japanese automaker is addressing issues with dealer service bulletins and minor recalls.
Justin’s switch from a GMC Sierra to a Toyota Tundra is a classic example of prioritizing reliability and durability. The GMC Sierra to Toyota Tundra comparison often comes down to this very point. While domestic brands like GMC and Chevy offer strong performance and features, they have struggled with consistent, long-term dependability.
Toyota, on the other hand, has built its reputation on engineering, not just in its cars but in its trucks. The Tundra has long been a champion of longevity, with many of its old V8 models surpassing 300,000 to 400,000 miles. The new generation is built on that same foundation.
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Now that Justin owns a 2025 Tundra, what’s the game plan for the long run?
A crucial part of ensuring the long-term reliability of the new-generation Toyota Tundra is proper maintenance and a proactive approach to ownership. For those wondering whether you should buy a used or new Toyota Tundra, this is a prime example of why buying new and taking care of it from day one is the best path to long-term ownership happiness. Keep up with your scheduled maintenance, especially with the more complex twin-turbo engine.
Fluid changes, filter replacements, and regular inspections are more important than ever. Tundra owners should familiarize themselves with the truck’s systems and shouldn’t hesitate to take it to the dealer for any minor issues. The warranty is in place for a reason, and addressing issues early prevents more significant problems down the road.
What About That Tundra Grille?
As for the grille, it’s a bold design choice. But there are plenty of options. A quick search will reveal just how many aftermarket companies have seized the opportunity to offer alternatives. A new grille is one of the most popular first modifications for this generation of Tundra.
Whether you want a simple mesh design, a billet look, or a full-on replacement with integrated LED light bars, there’s a solution. For those asking how to fix the large grille on a Toyota Tundra, the answer lies in the aftermarket scene.
I’ve seen some incredible transformations that completely change the front-end look, and it’s a relatively straightforward modification that you or a local shop can handle.
In The End
Justin’s decision to switch to a Toyota Tundra was the right one. He’s traded a headache for peace of mind. While the initial issues with the early production models were a setback, Toyota has a proven track record of standing behind its products.
He can drive his new Tundra with confidence, knowing he has purchased a truck built for the long haul.
It’s Your Turn
What’s your take on the new Tundra’s design and reliability? Has Toyota done enough to address the initial concerns and prove that this new generation truck is just as reliable as the old one? Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know your thoughts.
Check out my 2025 Toyota Tundra story: 2025 Toyota Tundra Owner’s Comment, “I Picked Up My Tundra’s Tags, and Jaws Were On the Floor as I Made My Way Around the Dealership,” Ignites a Firestorm
I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news, covering owner stories, and providing expert analysis, ensuring that you are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram
Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Justin Beaton
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Source: torquenews.com
