2012 Toyota Venza

The 2012 Toyota Venza is a mid-size crossover SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined driving experience. It was offered with two engine options: a 2.7L inline-4 producing 181 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 generating 268 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Venza for its car-like handling and ample cargo space, while some criticisms include its somewhat bland styling and limited off-road capabilities.

Engine

2.7L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and potentially engine knocking if the oil level becomes critically low.
  • Solution: The recommended course of action begins with a leakdown test of all cylinders. If the test confirms oil is leaking through the piston rings, the recommended solution is an engine replacement or a complete engine rebuild including replacing the rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the water pump area, overheating, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Oil Cooler Line Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The rubber portion of the oil cooler line may develop leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the oil cooler lines
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600
  • Recalls: None Found
• VVTi Oil Line Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from the Variable Valve Timing intelligent (VVTi) oil line, particularly the rubber hose section.
  • Solution: Replace the VVTi oil line with an updated, all-metal version.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or erratic shifting, particularly between certain gears. Slipping may also occur, where the engine RPM increases without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed.
  • Solution: Begin by checking the transmission fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low or contaminated, a fluid flush and filter replacement may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) to $3,000+ (transmission rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo. This can lead to a bouncy ride and reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shocks and/or springs. Consider using heavy-duty springs if the vehicle is frequently used for carrying heavy loads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut/Shock Absorber Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the struts or shock absorbers, resulting in a bouncy or unstable ride and reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace the affected struts/shock absorbers.
  • 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, making it difficult to lock or unlock doors remotely or manually.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Radio System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning touchscreen, unresponsive buttons, or complete failure of the navigation/radio system.
  • Solution: Check the fuse. Software updates. Unit replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100- $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Support Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The liftgate will not stay open on its own, posing a safety hazard.
  • Solution: Replace the liftgate supports.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may stick when opening/closing or the motor may fail entirely.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor/regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Toyota Venza, while generally reliable, does have some common issues. The most concerning are potential engine problems, such as excessive oil consumption in the 2.7L inline-4 and oil leaks in the 3.5L V6, which can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, while less frequent, can also be expensive to address. Other issues, such as suspension wear and electrical problems, are more typical for a vehicle of this age and can be addressed at a moderate cost. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed to check for these common issues.