Used Toyota Sienna

What to know before buying: Toyota Sienna

From 4 video reviews · updated 26/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The 2021–2024 Sienna is a hybrid as standard and offers AWD. The AWD version is rated at 35 mpg, although power can feel limited when merging or passing.[2]one source
• In a 40,000-mile test, the 2021 Sienna proved comfortable and useful for road trips. Nine carry-on bags fit behind the third row, and travelers did not complain about cargo space.[3]one source
• The 2021 model has a roomy cabin and useful space behind the third row, but its second-row seats are not removable, preventing 1.2 × 2.4 m sheets from fitting with the hatch closed.[1]one source

Typical faults

• The 2011–2020 3.5 V6 can develop an expensive oil leak from the front timing cover.[4]one source

  2011–2020 · 3.5 V6

• On 2011 and some early-2012 3.5 V6 vans, the rubber oil-cooler line can harden and rapidly dump the engine oil. The later all-metal line resolves the risk.[4]one source

  2011–2012 · 3.5 V6

• The 2011–2020 3.5 V6 water pump can leak or suffer bearing failure. A leak may cause overheating, while bearing failure can produce rattling and eventually throw the accessory belt.[4]one source

  2011–2020 · 3.5 V6

• External coolant leaks from the head gasket are reported on 2011–2017 3.5 V6 vans; repair requires removing the engine and is therefore very expensive.[4]one source

  2011–2017 · 3.5 V6

• The eight-speed transmission in 2017 and early-2018 vans can whine, shift harshly, or otherwise operate abnormally; Toyota later revised its internals and software.[4]one source

  2017–2018 · 3.5 V6

• On 2011–2020 vans, corrosion can seize the power sliding door's center hinge or latches; a jam can overload and snap the drive cable.[4]one source

  2011–2020

Which engine and version to take

• For 2011–2016 vans, favor the 3.5 V6 with the six-speed automatic; the source calls it solid and trouble-free when its fluid is changed every 60,000 miles or six years.[4]one source
• From 2021, the sole choice is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid. Sources highlight its economy: 35–36 mpg, or about 6.5–6.7 L/100 km depending on drivetrain.[1][2][3]

What to avoid

• Avoid the 2011–2020 2.7-liter four-cylinder: it is underpowered for a large van carrying people or cargo, and oil consumption is reported when maintenance is neglected.[4]one source
• Approach 2017 and early-2018 3.5 V6 vans with the eight-speed automatic cautiously: confirm the factory issue was repaired or obtain warranty coverage.[4]one source

What to check at the inspection

• Inspect the 3.5 V6 from underneath near the passenger-side wheel; oil around the front timing-cover area indicates an expensive leak.[4]one source
• Have a mechanic inspect the 3.5 V6 on a lift for external head-gasket coolant leakage, which is difficult to see during a simple ground-level check.[4]one source
• Fully open and close both power sliding doors several times. Look for binding, reversal, faulty latches, and a loose cable hanging above the rear wheel.[4]one source
• Cycle the powered tailgate several times and compare the gaps beside the lamps. Uneven gaps or sideways movement can indicate a bent hatch or hinges.[4]one source
• On 2011 and some 2012 vans with dual sunroofs, inspect the headliner; large blue or green stains can reveal a burst or disconnected rear-washer hose.[4]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]Auto Buyers Guide | Alex on Autos — The only AWD Hybrid Minivan In America | 2021 Toyota Sienna · ▶ video
2. [2]CarMax — Pick or Pass? | Should You Buy a Used 2021–2024 Toyota Sienna Review? · ▶ video
3. [3]Car and Driver — What We Learned After Testing a Hybrid Toyota Sienna Over 40,000 Miles | Car and Driver · ▶ video
4. [4]The Car Care Nut — 2011-2020 Toyota Sienna Buying Guide · ▶ video

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