My 2021 Toyota Tundra Nightshade's Hood Scoop Pops When Large Trucks Pass By
Two days ago I came across a discussion in the Toyota Tundra Enthusiasts forum, where the owner of a 2021 Nightshade edition Tundra believes the clips holding the hood scoop are faulty and has had it replaced once before under warranty. The service department is refusing to cover the replacement again, possibly because the warranty has expired.
Forum member, named Nmjameswilson, writes:
Has anyone had their front hood piece pop out when semi trucks pass? I had this happen immediately after I bought it and had it replaced. Now it is doing it again and the service department will not cover it with the extended Toyota warranty. The clips that hold it popped out and only one is still attached. I am guessing I am not the only one with this issue. I might just add bolts myself. I have the 2021 Nightshade model BTW.
The problem, which causes the hood to bulge out while driving, has sparked a heated debate among Toyota Tundra enthusiasts, with many demanding answers and solutions from the automaker. Interestingly, this happens, when semi trucks pass the pickup truck.
Victims of the bulge report feeling helpless as their trucks' hoods seemingly develop a mind of their own, popping out and refusing to stay in place. The issue has raised concerns about safety, durability, and Toyota's commitment to quality.
One of the forum members responded to the original poster and wrote, "I've seen it happen on trucks with modified bulges to fit light bars, but personally haven't seen it on a normal truck. That said... I know you're not alone as I have seen a handful of Tundras in the world without hood bulges at all."
Dealerships' lackluster responses, dismissing the problem as a design quirk, have only added fuel to the fire. Owners are banding together, sharing their experiences and searching for a fix. Some have resorted to DIY solutions, while others await a manufacturer recall or official fix.
You can try replacing the clips and see how it goes. Be careful tightening the 3 bolts to reinstall it. Too tight and it will snap the speed nut mount. That's how at least one Toyota Tundra owner said he "probably broke his."
Adding bolts themselves might be a solution, but this is not recommended as it might alter the hood and potentially void the warranty. It's always best to consult with a mechanic before making modifications to the vehicle.
What would you do in this case? Have you ever had your truck's hood pop as bigger semi trucks passed it? Please, click the red link below to write your comment and join the discussion.
Speaking of Toyota Tundra's Nightshade Edition, also look at all 8 Toyota NIghtshade vehicles.
Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.