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2012 Toyota Venza

2012 Toyota Venza

The 2012 Toyota Venza is a mid-size crossover SUV that offers a comfortable cabin, spacious interior, and reliable performance. It is available with two engine options: a 2.7L inline-four and a 3.5L V6, paired with either a six-speed automatic or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Despite its overall reliability, the Venza has experienced certain issues reported by owners.

Engine

  • 2.7L Inline-Four

    • Intake manifold runner control actuator failure
      • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, decreased engine power, reduced fuel economy
      • Solution: Replacement of intake manifold runner control actuator
      • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $900+
      • Recalls: None Found
    • Valve cover gasket leak
      • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from under the valve cover
      • Solution: Replacement of valve cover gasket
      • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
      • Recalls: None Found
  • 3.5L V6

    • Timing chain tensioner failure
      • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on engine startup, reduced engine power
      • Solution: Replacement of timing chain tensioner
      • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
      • Recalls: Toyota Campaign Number: TSB-0144-14

Transmission

  • Six-Speed Automatic

    • Transmission slipping
      • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, hesitation during acceleration
      • Solution: Replacement of transmission clutches or overhaul
      • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
      • Recalls: None Found
  • Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

    • CVT chain failure
      • Description/Symptoms: Screeching noise during acceleration, loss of power
      • Solution: Replacement of CVT chain
      • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $4,500+
      • Recalls: Toyota Campaign Number: TSB-0201-14

Suspension

  • Front strut mounts worn
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when driving over bumps
    • Solution: Replacement of strut mounts
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Alternator failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, difficulty starting, electrical system failure
    • Solution: Replacement of alternator
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies unexpectedly
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of electrical system, possibly replacing a faulty component
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Cracked windshield
    • Description/Symptoms: Large cracks or chips on the windshield
    • Solution: Replacement or repair of windshield
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • HVAC blower motor failure
    • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from the vents
    • Solution: Replacement of blower motor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cruise Control Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Cruise control not working or causing sudden acceleration or deceleration
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of cruise control switch or wiring
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+
    • Recalls: Toyota Campaign Number: TSB-0088-12

Summary

The 2012 Toyota Venza is generally a reliable vehicle, but like most vehicles, it has experienced some common issues. The more severe and costly issues include transmission slipping and CVT chain failure, which can be expensive to repair. However, the majority of the reported issues are relatively minor and can be fixed at a reasonable cost. Owners should be aware of these potential issues and take appropriate precautions to maintain their Venza in good condition.

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