2015 Toyota Venza

The 2015 Toyota Venza is a mid-size crossover SUV that blends the practicality of an SUV with the ride comfort of a sedan. It came standard with a 2.7-liter inline-4 engine producing 181 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque. An optional 3.5-liter V6 engine was also available, delivering 268 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Venza for its smooth ride, spacious interior, and comfortable seating. However, some criticized 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 them to add oil more frequently between oil changes. This may be caused by piston ring issues or valve stem seal leaks. Symptoms include low oil levels, blue exhaust smoke, and oil spots on the ground.
  • Solution: A possible fix involves replacing the piston rings or valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6

• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump may fail prematurely, leading to coolant leaks and overheating. Symptoms include coolant leaks, rising engine temperature, and a whining noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the water pump is the standard repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Cooler Line Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The oil cooler lines may leak causing loss of oil, and potentially catastrophic engine failure. A burning oil smell may also be present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience harsh or erratic shifting, particularly between certain gears. This may be caused by valve body issues, worn solenoids, or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Possible solutions include flushing the transmission fluid, replacing the valve body, or replacing faulty solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $1,500+ (valve body replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported torque converter failure, leading to transmission slipping, shuddering, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or failure of the rear struts. Symptoms include excessive bouncing, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in the navigation or infotainment system, including freezing, slow response times, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the head unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $1,000+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The power liftgate may fail to open or close properly, or may stop working altogether.
  • Solution: Check and replace the liftgate struts, motor, or related sensors/control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may leak, stick, or fail to open/close properly.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks and seals, or replacing faulty sunroof components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard (often not cost-effective) or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000+ (dashboard replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Toyota Venza generally exhibits good reliability, though some owners have encountered issues with the engine (oil consumption, water pump leaks), transmission (harsh shifting, torque converter failure), and electrical components. The severity and cost of repairs can vary significantly, with some issues being relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, while others may require more extensive and costly repairs. Overall, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase.