2009 Toyota Venza
2009 Toyota Venza
Overview
The 2009 Toyota Venza is a mid-size crossover SUV that aimed to blend the practicality of an SUV with the driving dynamics of a car. It was offered with two distinct engine options and a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a traditional automatic. Known for Toyota’s reputation for reliability, the Venza generally performs well in terms of mechanical durability. However, like any vehicle, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners and technicians. This report details common reported issues across key categories, focusing on non-wear-and-tear related problems.
Engine
2.7L 4-Cylinder (1AR-FE)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
3.5L V6 (2GR-FE)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Hesitation or Shuddering
- Symptoms: Vehicle may hesitate during acceleration or exhibit a slight shudder, particularly at lower speeds or when engaging drive.
- Solution: Software updates for the transmission control module (TCM) are often the first step. In more severe cases, internal transmission repairs or replacement may be necessary.
- Cost: $300 - $800 (Software Update/Minor Repair), $2,500 - $5,000 (Replacement)
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (for V6)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
General Electrical System
Infotainment System Glitches
- Symptoms: Occasional freezing, unresponsiveness, or failure of the touchscreen or audio system.
- Solution: Software updates for the infotainment unit can resolve many issues. In some cases, the unit may need to be reset or replaced.
- Cost: $100 - $500 (Software/Reset), $500 - $1,500 (Replacement)
Keyless Entry Fob Malfunction
- Symptoms: Key fob may become unresponsive, requiring manual key use or battery replacement.
- Solution: Replace the battery in the key fob. If the issue persists, reprogramming or replacement of the fob may be required.
- Cost: $20 - $50 (Battery), $150 - $300 (Reprogramming/Replacement)
Exterior
Body and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Cabin and Upholstery
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2009 Toyota Venza generally exhibits strong reliability, consistent with Toyota’s brand reputation. The 2.7L 4-cylinder and 3.5L V6 engines are robust and rarely present significant issues outside of routine maintenance. The 6-speed automatic transmission paired with the V6 is also dependable. The CVT, while generally performing well, has seen some reports of hesitation or shuddering, often addressable with software updates. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the infotainment system and keyless entry fobs, are the most commonly cited non-routine issues, typically with manageable repair costs. Overall, the Venza is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable family vehicle, with most potential problems being minor and cost-effective to resolve.