2013 Toyota Venza

The 2013 Toyota Venza is a five-passenger crossover SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and available features. The base engine is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder producing 181 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 3.5-liter V6, generating 268 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque, was also available. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Venza for its car-like handling and smooth ride. Common dislikes include its somewhat bland styling and less than stellar fuel economy compared to other SUVs.

Engine

2.7L Inline 4-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Visible blue smoke from the exhaust may also be present.
  • Solution: The dealer may perform an oil consumption test to verify the issue. Potential fixes range from replacing valve stem seals to piston ring replacement or ultimately engine replacement if the consumption is severe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Oil Leak - Timing Chain Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the timing chain cover, often noticed as oil spots under the vehicle or a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or erratic shifting, particularly between certain gears. Transmission slippage may also occur, where the engine revs high without a corresponding increase in speed.
  • Solution: Diagnosis may involve checking the transmission fluid level and condition, performing a transmission flush, or in more severe cases, replacing valve bodies or overhauling the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo. Can lead to a harsher ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shocks and potentially the coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more of the power door locks may fail to operate, either not locking or unlocking the door.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Radio Unit Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the navigation or radio unit. May include freezing, slow response times, or a blank screen.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update may resolve the issue. Otherwise, the unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks (Sunroof or Liftgate)
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin from the sunroof or liftgate seals during rain or car washes.
  • Solution: Replacing the sunroof or liftgate weather stripping. Cleaning and unclogging the sunroof drain tubes.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, often an expensive repair. Some owners may opt for a dashboard cover instead.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Toyota Venza, while generally reliable, exhibits some common issues. The most significant concerns revolve around potential engine oil consumption (particularly in the 2.7L), transmission shifting problems, and electrical issues like power door lock failures. Dashboard cracking is also a frequently reported problem. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but some repairs like engine work or transmission overhauls can be quite expensive. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have a thorough inspection performed before purchasing a used 2013 Venza.