2021 Toyota Sienna

The 2021 Toyota Sienna marked a significant redesign for the popular minivan, moving exclusively to a hybrid powertrain. This powertrain consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors, producing a combined 245 horsepower. It uses an Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT). Many owners appreciate the Sienna’s excellent fuel economy, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Common complaints often revolve around the hybrid system’s occasionally noticeable transitions, the infotainment system’s complexity, and some interior material choices.

Engine

2.5L Hybrid

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher-than-expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include the low oil level warning light illuminating and the need to add oil every few thousand miles.
  • Solution: The issue may involve replacing the piston rings or other internal engine components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ depending on the extent of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

ECVT

• Hesitation/Jerking During Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing hesitation or jerking during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. This can feel like the transmission is struggling to find the right gear ratio.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may address the issue. In some cases, a transmission replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for a software update. $5,000 - $7,000+ for a transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system, including the touchscreen display, can freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: A software update to the infotainment system or replacement of the head unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for a software update if covered under warranty. $500 - $1500+ for head unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sliding Door Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The power sliding doors may intermittently fail to open or close properly, or the sensor is too sensitive causing doors to re-open. This can be due to a faulty sensor, motor, or wiring issue.
  • Solution: Diagnosis may involve inspecting the sensors, motors, and wiring harness. Replacement of the faulty component may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the component needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera image may be distorted, blurry, or completely unavailable. This can be caused by a faulty camera, wiring issues, or software glitches.
  • Solution: Replacing the backup camera unit or addressing any wiring problems may resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on the extent of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling noises emanating from the dashboard, doors, or rear cargo area. These noises can be distracting and difficult to pinpoint.
  • Solution: Tightening loose trim pieces, applying foam padding to prevent vibrations, or replacing faulty clips may address the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Errors
  • Description/Symptoms: The AEB system may activate unnecessarily or provide false warnings. This can be due to sensor misalignment, software glitches, or interference from external factors.
  • Solution: Recalibration of the AEB sensors or a software update may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for recalibration.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2021 Toyota Sienna has some reported issues, with the hybrid powertrain being the source of some complaints. The most severe issues, such as excessive oil consumption and transmission problems, can be costly to repair. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and sliding doors are also common and can be frustrating for owners. While the Sienna enjoys a reputation for reliability, these issues warrant careful consideration for potential buyers.