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"All this time, I thought you were just putting too much muscle into adjusting the volume! But I joined the Toyota Tundra owners broken knob club at 20,000 miles on my 2024 Tundra Limited."
That's what Kevin Nakielski said in a 2023-2025 Toyota Tundra Owners Facebook page post. Kevin's experience resonates with many other Tundra owners who have faced the same issue. Let's delve into why and what owners can do about it.
First, imagine owning a Toyota Tundra pickup for a year and a half, you love the truck, and then one day, you turn the volume up on the radio, and the knob breaks off in your hand. You didn't do anything different to the volume knob than you usually do.
However, the knob is broken as you turn it over and look at the inside. Why did it break off so easily?
As you are perusing the Toyota Tundra Owner's Facebook page, you see multiple posts from other owners who have experienced the same thing. Now you must take your truck to the dealer for what should never have happened.
It's an infuriating inconvenience that you shouldn't have to deal with on a truck with only 20,000 miles.
What is the Toyota Tundra Broken Radio Knob Club?
Many Toyota Tundra owners have reported issues with the radio volume knob breaking or malfunctioning, particularly on models with the 14-inch display. The problem often involves the plastic tabs inside the knob breaking due to wear and tear or the knob becoming loose. Some owners have gone through multiple knobs within a short period.
Here's a more detailed look at the problem:
- It's a Common Issue: The radio volume knob, especially on newer Tundra models with the larger 14-inch screen, is prone to breaking or becoming loose.
- Cause: The plastic tabs or mechanism inside the knob can break down over time, causing the knob to become detached or loose.
- Frequency: Many owners report replacing the knob multiple times within a relatively short period, sometimes as frequently as every few months.
Dave Trip, in a Facebook post, says, "Is anyone having issues with the radio knob? I go through about one knob every other month because the tabs on the inside break. Does anyone have a fix for this issue?"
Neal Maier says, "It's not the knob; it's the mechanism behind the knob periodically binding and breaking the knob. I went through 4-5 knobs before the dealer contacted engineering, who replaced the entire unit under warranty. Platinum with a 14" screen."
What is the Dealer's Response?
Some owners have reported issues with their dealers not being aware of the problem or taking too long to address it.
Potential Solutions:
Some owners have found temporary fixes, like using a 45ACP shell casing to reinforce the knob. Others have explored 3D-printed replacements or purchased aftermarket knobs from sources like Lightburg Design.
Kevin Shanley says, "Quick fix, cut the end off a .45ACP shell case. Perfect ID to snuggly fit around post and reinforce it. Mine was only cracked, but it slid on and stays on with no glue. I slid it back on with a little resistance than before, but didn't have to force it."
A Reddit poster, American-_-Panascope, says, I have a 2023 Tundra, and I've gone through four volume knobs in a year. It's not like I'm rough on the thing, either. I've replaced one under warranty, but that takes almost 2 hours out of my day, including driving to the dealer and waiting for them to process it under warranty. The rest I've ordered for 15 bucks a pop."
What Should Toyota Tundra Owners Do?
If your Tundra truck is still under warranty, you should have the dealer replace it. Some owners have the dealer replace the entire unit under warranty after multiple knob replacements. Don't hesitate to take action if you're experiencing this issue.
If your truck is out of warranty, some owners have also purchased replacement knobs from aftermarket sources. Here is a source on Amazon.
Conclusion
Toyota Tundra owners should not have to deal with a seemingly minor issue like a broken radio volume knob. It's a weak point on many Tundra trucks that Toyota needs to address.
How About You?
Do you own a Toyota Tundra truck, and have you had your radio volume knob break? If so, you are now a member of the Tundra Broken Radio Knob Club. We encourage you to share your experience by clicking the red Add New Comment link below . Your story could help other Tundra owners facing the same issue.
Check out my Toyota Tundra story: My 2025 Toyota Tundra’s Rear Diff With 1,800 Miles Is Whining, the Dealer Brushed Me Off, But Later Found Metal Shavings and Now Has To Replace It
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 and providing expert analysis on Subaru, which you'll find here, ensuring that you, as a reader, are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.
Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Kevin Nakielski
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