3rd Gen Tacoma: Engine cranks but won't start or dies right after starting

Checks, in order

1. Fuel pump prime sound
   With the doors closed and quiet, turn the ignition to ON and listen near the rear seat or tank for a brief hum. No sound points to a fuse, relay or the pump itself.
   easy $ · under about $50
2. Fuses and relays
   Check the fuel pump and EFI fuses and relays against the diagram in the owner's manual. Swap a similar relay to test.
   easy $ · under about $50
3. Security light and key recognition
   A blinking security light means the immobilizer isn't accepting the key. Try the spare fob and check the fob battery.
   easy $ · under about $50
4. Scan for stored codes
   Read codes even if the check engine light is off. Crank position or cam position sensor codes explain a no-start quickly.
   easy $ · under about $50
5. Fuel pressure test
   A gauge at the fuel rail on the 2TR-FE shows if the pump is delivering. On the 2GR-FKS high pressure direct injection means this is a shop job, so leave the high-pressure side to a technician.
   hard $$ · about $50 to $500

Applies to: 2016 to 2023 Tacoma with the 2TR-FE 2.7L four and the 2GR-FKS 3.5L V6, with the 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual. Engine-specific checks are labeled; everything else applies to both.

Tools and parts for these checks

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The same problem on other Toyotas

• 1st Gen Tacoma (1995.5–2004): Cranks fine but won't start or dies after starting
• 5th Gen 4Runner (2010–2024): Engine cranks but won't start
• 3rd Gen 4Runner (1996–2002): Engine cranks but won't start
• FJ Cruiser (2007–2014): Engine cranks normally but won't start
• 100 Series Land Cruiser / Lexus LX 470 (1998–2007): Engine cranks normally but won't start
• 80 Series Land Cruiser (1991–1997): Cranks fine but won't fire

Other fuel & ignition problems on the 3rd Gen Tacoma

• Rough idle, shaking at a stop or misfire (P0300 to P0306)

More 3rd Gen Tacoma problems

• Automatic keeps hunting between gears or downshifts early on hills (Transmission)
• Harsh, delayed or shuddering shifts, flare between gears (Transmission)
• Engine temperature climbing or overheating warning (Cooling)
• Turn the key or press the button: click or nothing, engine won't crank (Starting & Charging)
• Check engine light with lean codes (P0171, P0174) (Emissions)
• Vibration or shake at highway speed (Steering & Suspension)

All 16 3rd Gen Tacoma symptoms in the interactive troubleshooter →

General guidance from owner experience. Confirm torque specs, fluid capacities and procedures in the factory service manual. Brakes, steering and anything structural: if in doubt, have a qualified shop inspect it before driving.