2009 Toyota Sienna

The 2009 Toyota Sienna is a popular minivan known for its reliability, spaciousness, and comfortable ride. The available engines include a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 266 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Sienna for its smooth ride, ample cargo space, and overall dependability. However, some common complaints include issues with the power door operation, excessive oil consumption in some cases, and occasional electrical glitches.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can manifest as the low oil light illuminating or noticing a significant drop in oil level on the dipstick.
  • Solution: The fix varies depending on the severity. It can involve replacing the PCV valve, performing an engine flush, or, in more severe cases, piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, engine overheating. A whining noise from the engine area can also be present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifts between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration. The transmission may also hesitate or slip.
  • Solution: Often starts with a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, valve body repair or replacement may be necessary. In severe cases, a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo. This can lead to a bumpy ride and reduced handling performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shocks and/or coil springs. Some owners opt for air suspension upgrades to address this issue and improve ride quality.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Power sliding doors that fail to open or close properly, either getting stuck, moving slowly, or not responding to the button or key fob.
  • Solution: This can be caused by a faulty door motor, damaged wiring harness, or a malfunctioning sensor. Diagnosis involves checking the door motor, wiring, and sensors. Repair can involve replacing the motor, repairing the wiring, or replacing the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light illuminating, poor fuel economy, rough idling, or failed emissions test.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the lower body panels, particularly the rocker panels and wheel wells. This is more common in areas with harsh winters and road salt use.
  • Solution: Rust repair, which can involve sanding, patching, and repainting the affected areas. In severe cases, panel replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+ per panel
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, often caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight and heat.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover. Some owners attempt to repair the cracks with fillers and adhesives.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Toyota Sienna is generally a reliable vehicle. However, some owners have reported issues with excessive oil consumption, power door malfunctions, and suspension sag. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, with engine repairs potentially being the most expensive. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others, such as engine or transmission problems, can be costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase.