Toyota Might Not Replace Every Tundra V6 That Has Been Recalled

The Toyota Tundra V6 recall likely won’t improve after this update. The Japanese automaker announced free inspections and diagnostics for Toyota and Lexus engines instead of replacing all 270,000 affected vehicles. Over 70,000 have already received engine replacements due to machining debris causing premature wear and failure of main bearing #1. A teardown of a seized Tundra engine showed debris causes the engine to self-destruct over time. Toyota has traced the issue, but some suspect more. The V35A-FTS engine, a twin-turbo 3.4-liter, can self-destruct from factory debris. Moving to update its recall order, Toyota issues another recall since 2024.

On June 15, 2026, the NHTSA updated the Toyota/Lexus V35A-FTS engine recall. Dealers will now use diagnostic software to inspect #1 main bearings and analyze drive data; engines failing this assessment will be replaced for free. Affected owners experiencing knocking, rough idling, or failure should visit a dealership, as this marks the third recall for these vehicles since May 2024.

Toyota clarified that not all V35A-FTS engines require replacement. Owners covered by the May 2024 recall remain eligible if not yet serviced, while those with post-July 2024 engines or prior replacements are exempt. Toyota will now use diagnostic data and resonant frequency testing to assess bearing wear, replacing engines only when necessary.

Toyota Tundra and Lexus owners are frustrated by the automaker’s shift from full engine replacements to diagnostic inspections for the V35A-FTS engine. While some owners are wary of the two-year ordeal, many feel this new recall protocol avoids addressing a potential design flaw. Despite calls for transparency and a permanent fix, Toyota maintains that only specific engines require replacement, leaving many owners demanding a more definitive solution.

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