2011 Toyota Venza

The 2011 Toyota Venza is a mid-size crossover SUV that offers a blend of car-like handling and SUV versatility. It was available with two engine options: a 2.7-liter inline-4 engine producing 182 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 268 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the Venza for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and Toyota reliability. Common dislikes include the somewhat bland styling and limited off-road capability.

Engine

2.7L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include the low oil light illuminating or noticing a significant drop in the oil level on the dipstick.
  • Solution: Regular monitoring of oil levels and topping off as needed. In severe cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Oil Leak from Valve Cover Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from the valve cover gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• VVTI Oil Line Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rubber portion of the VVTI oil line ruptures which causes oil to leak onto the engine and a low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil line with a newer revision that is all metal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (U660E/U660F)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or jerky shifting between gears, particularly during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Fluid flush and/or valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush), $800 - $1500 (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shuddering, often felt at lower speeds or during light acceleration. Can be caused by torque converter lock-up issues.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush with updated fluid formulation. If the problem persists, torque converter replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid flush), $800 - $1800 (torque converter)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking, popping, or clunking noises coming from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Worn strut mounts can also cause the vehicle to handle poorly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the power door locks. The door lock may not respond to the key fob or the interior door lock switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Radio Head Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation or radio head unit may freeze, become unresponsive, or fail completely.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Hatch Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear hatch (liftgate) struggles to stay open or falls closed unexpectedly. This is due to worn liftgate struts that can no longer support the weight of the hatch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure or getting stuck in the open or closed position.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Toyota Venza generally enjoys a reputation for reliability, but like any vehicle, it has its share of potential issues. Engine issues like excessive oil consumption and valve cover gasket leaks, as well as transmission concerns like harsh shifting, are among the more significant problems that owners might encounter. Suspension and electrical issues, though less frequent, can also contribute to ownership costs. While the severity and cost of these issues vary, proactive maintenance and addressing problems promptly can help mitigate expenses and ensure the long-term reliability of the vehicle.