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2017 Toyota Sienna

The 2017 Toyota Sienna is a popular minivan known for its reliability, spacious interior, and available all-wheel drive. The Sienna is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 296 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Sienna for its comfortable ride, abundant passenger and cargo space, and reputation for longevity. However, some common complaints include a somewhat dated interior design, less-than-sporty handling, and potential issues related to the automatic doors and electronics.

Engine

3.5L 2GR-FE V6

  • Oil Leak from Timing Cover
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the front of the engine near the timing cover. Oil spots under the vehicle.
    • Solution: Removal of the timing cover, cleaning and resealing the cover using new gaskets and sealant.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Aisin U881E 8-Speed Automatic

  • Harsh or Delayed Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when shifting between gears, especially when cold. Noticeable clunking or jerking during shifts.
    • Solution: Software update for the transmission control module (TCM). If the problem persists, replacement of the valve body or complete transmission overhaul may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (Software update) to $3000+ (Transmission overhaul)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

  • Sliding Door Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sliding doors failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises. This can be caused by a faulty motor, damaged cables, or problems with the door sensors or latching mechanism.
    • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the cause. Replacement of the sliding door motor, repair of damaged cables, or replacement of faulty sensors or latches.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on the specific component needing repair.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Navigation/Infotainment System Glitches
    • Description/Symptoms: The touchscreen freezing, becoming unresponsive, or displaying incorrect information. Issues with Bluetooth connectivity or audio playback.
    • Solution: Attempt a system reset. Check for software updates. If the problem persists, the head unit may need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on whether a reset/update fixes the issue or the unit requires replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

  • Rattling Sounds from Rear Hatch
    • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling sounds emanating from the rear hatch area, particularly on bumpy roads.
    • Solution: Adjusting the hatch latch or adding padding to reduce vibration. Sometimes replacing the weatherstripping around the hatch helps.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+

    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Toyota Sienna is generally a reliable vehicle, but some common issues include oil leaks, transmission shifting problems, sliding door malfunctions, and infotainment system glitches. The severity and cost of these issues vary. Oil leaks from the timing cover can be expensive to fix, while infotainment issues might be resolved with a simple software update. Sliding door problems are also relatively common and can range in cost depending on the part requiring repair. While the Sienna is a dependable minivan, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and carefully inspect the vehicle before purchasing.

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