2006 Toyota Sienna Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2006 Toyota Sienna, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Airbags30725.4%
- Body & structure26021.5%
- Electrical867.1%
- Interior & seats786.4%
- Driver assistance766.3%
- Brakes746.1%
- Other / unspecified665.5%
- Tires & wheels665.5%
- Steering615.0%
- Seat belts403.3%
- Powertrain (other)282.3%
- Suspension191.6%
- Engine151.2%
- Transmission131.1%
- Visibility110.9%
- Fuel system60.5%
- Exterior lighting40.3%
- Heating & air conditioning10.1%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
Airbag warning light intermittently flashes, upon personal research on owner forums this is a common issue that is most commonly fixed by wiggling or disconnecting/reconnecting the airbag sensor wiring below the front seats.
Airbag system warning light due to failing connector under the front passenger seat. Code 44 / B0111. See Toyota T-SB-0069-12. This is a pattern failure in a critical safety system.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2006 Toyota Sienna. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the liftgate was opened and raised; however, the liftgate failed to remain open and raised as intended. The contact stated that when the liftgate was raised, the liftgate independently fell due to faulty liftgate struts. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was unavailable.
LIFTGATE FAILURE DATE 5-8-2020 MILEAGE 51,300 MILES MY 2006 TOYOTA SIENNA LIMITED, WAS PURCHASED NEW IN 2006. THE VAN IS METICULOUSLY CARED FOR WITH ALL SERVICE DONE ON TIME AT THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP. WHEN NOT IN USE, IT'S PARKED IN A CLIMATE-CONTROLLED GARAGE. ON OR ABOUT 2008, RECALL 80C WAS DONE AT THE TOYOTA DEALERSHIP. THE LIFTGATE MALFUNCTIONED ON 5-8-2020. THE LIFTGATE FELL ABOUT TEN INCHES AFTER IT REACHED THE FULLY OPEN POSITION, AT WHICH POINT THE POWER MOTOR ENGAGED AND POWERED THE LIFTGATE TO THE FULLY CLOSED POSITION. THE DOOR CAME DOWN ON MY HEAD AND BRUISED MY SHOULDER. IF THE DOOR SWITCH IS TURNED OFF, THE DOOR WILL SLAM DOWN HARD, POSSIBLY CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO ANYONE IN ITS PATH. I'M A FAIRLY STRONG 83-YEAR-OLD. IF THIS HAPPENED WHEN MY WIFE OR ONE OF MY GREAT GRANDCHILDREN WERE UNDER THE MALFUNCTIONING HATCH, THEY COULD HAVE BEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED. THE MALFUNCTIONING HATCH WAS DEMONSTRATED TO A TOYOTA SERVICE REP. THE TOYOTA REP. SAID, WHEREAS THE RECALL REPAIRS HAVE BEEN DONE, TOYOTA WILL CHARGE FOR A SECOND REPAIR. THE COST OF REPAIRS WOULD BE MORE THAN FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET, MORE THAN SEVENTY SIMILAR LIFT-GATE PROBLEMS WERE FOUND THAT SIENNA OWNERS HAVE EXPERIENCED. OBVIOUSLY, TOYOTA HASN'T BEEN ABLE TO DO SATISFACTORY, LASTING REPAIRS. TOYOTA'S FAILURE TO RESOLVE THIS PROBLEM NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED ONCE AND FOR ALL AT NO COST TO THE SIENNA OWNER. A LIST OF SIMILAR ISSUES BEING REPORTED FOLLOWS: NOTE: COMMENTS RELATING TO PERSONAL INJURY HIGHLIGHTED IN RED. NOTE: THESE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE REPORTS. NOTE: DUE TO CHARACTER LIMITATION, UNABLE TO PROVIDE LIST OF SIMILAR ISSUES FOUND. CAN PROVIDE LIST IF YOU REQUEST. *TR
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
The vehicle stability control system randomly engages and activates the brakes without cause. This can happen on a gentle curve going under the speed limit. It is very scary and I am afraid it is going to cause an accident. Internet research shows many owners with this issue and no information on the cause or a fix
While driving vehicle on dry, non slippery roads with slight to moderate curves, vehicle illuminates Traction Loss light, sounds alarm buzzer, and at times applies brakes and dethrottles engine, even when no loss of traction has occurred. This happens while driving on straight roads with slight unevenness. Had to disconnect wheel speed sensor harness to disable ABS/VSC system. When this happens, the vehicle automatically applies brakes to certain wheels and dethrottles the engine, this can pull the vehicle to one side sharply and can cause an accident.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
I HAVE A 2006 TOYOTA SIENNA THAT I BOUGHT IN 2009. I HAD TO TURN OFF MY ELECTRICAL RIGHT BACK SIDE PASSENGER DOOR BECAUSE IT SLIDES OPEN BY ITSELF WHILE I'M DRIVING. THE DOOR OPENS AND CLOSES WITH THE PUSH BUTTON BUT DUE TO THE DOOR FLYING OPEN WHILE I'M DRIVING I HAD TO TURN THE AUTOMATIC OPTION OFF. I TAKE MY VEHICLE IN FOR ALL RECALLS BUT I'M NOT SURE IF THIS HAS BEEN ONE OF THEM AND IF IT HASN'T IT SHOULD BE. IT JUST HAPPENS OUT OF NOWHERE AND YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN IT'S GOING TO HAPPEN YOU JUST SEE THE DOOR FLY OPEN IN TRAFFIC. I HAVE KIDS AND A DOG THAT RIDES IN MY VAN ON A DAILY BASIS SO THIS PROBLEM NEEDS ATTENTION.
SLIDING DOORS OPEN WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION. HATCH BACK DOESN'T OPEN UP BY ELECTRICALLY. HEATING SYSTEM STAYS ON EVEN WHEN TURNED OFF.STEREO TURNS OF WHEN THE HEATER HEATS UP TO LONG.MY SON WAS IN SIDE WERE THE DOOR OPENED UP WHILE WE WERE DRIVING ON A MAIN RD.MY DAUGHTER WAS SITTING ON OPPOSITE SIDE AND SLIDING DOOR POPPED OPEN WHILE ON A MAIN RD.SIDE DOOR STARTED CLOSING WHILE GETTING GROCERIES OUT CAUSING BRUSING TO MY GIRLFRIEND.HATCH DOESN'T WORK. ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
My vehicle steering/control has frozen a few times in the past 18-24 mos. This happens for me in wet conditions at slow speeds while trying to turn, usually to the right. The car also seems to slow on its own and pull to the side at these times. This has also happened while reversing out of a parking spot. I do not recall seeing any lights engage but I am more focused on steering the car safely and exterior factors at these times so I haven't noticed the dashboard. It feels like the power steering fails, and I have no control. Thankfully, I have not been moving at high rates of speed, nor been in a position to go into the lane of on-coming traffic or had someone in a lane near me, and have been able to hold in position or manually turn as much as needed. Steering seems to return once the turn is complete. I have been fearful of hitting someone or being hit from behind each time. My mechanic has been unable to recreate the experience and was unable to suggest a direct answer. I see others have had similar experiences and the same lack of answers from even Toyota. Having come across this website and seeing responses here to this exact problem I have had, I am hoping for more information or a recall soon!
The vehicle stability control system randomly engages and activates the brakes without cause. This can happen on a gentle curve going under the speed limit. It is very scary and I am afraid it is going to cause an accident. Internet research shows many owners with this issue and no information on the cause or a fix
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
Bought the van used last year. Previous owner said mechanic could not diagnose the issue. On slight curves similar to on-ramps while accelerating the Vehicle stability control (VSC) will engage unexpectedly, sound an alarm and jerk the steering wheel. Some times to the point of pulling the vehicle out of its lane. Road speed is decreased dramatically as it feels as though the ABS is engaging. This has happened to me at least half a dozen times since June 2023. The condition will continue for maybe five or ten seconds until the wheel is straightened and speed reduced. Searching the Internet seems it's a fairly common problem. The fix might be to replace the steering rack or disable the VSC system. It's reported by those experiencing the issue get little to no help from the dealerships which strikes me as quite strange... From what I've read it seems to affect 2004-2009 Siennas
Vehicle traction control system will activate around a curve and break the vehicle while the traction control warning system activates. Breaking around a curve in a wet road situation can be very risky. Numerous other Toyota owners have filed similar complaints.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
The TPMS system failed in the ECM or engine computer. It uses the wheel speed sensors on each hub to measure differences in wheel speed and uses this to infer if any one wheel has low tire pressure. (This vehicle does not have TPMS sensors in the wheels.) However, with this failure, it reports a tire pressure problem even though all 4 tires are inflated properly. This problem persists even after cleaning then replacing wheel speed sensors. The problem appears to be in the ECM or engine computer, which is very difficult and expensive to replace. With this problem, the driver is never able to tell if any tire actually has low pressure because the system always reports that a tire has low pressure. Toyota should be required to fix this issue in all affected vehicles.
Swollen lug nuts. Won’t fit any wrench. Affects ability to remove a tire in case of needing to repair a flat tire.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2006 Toyota Sienna equipped Hercules Tires, Tire Line: Roadtour 855 SPE, Tire Size: 215/65/R16, DOT Number: U96VH260H21. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH during a trip, the steering wheel started shuddering. The vehicle was taken to a tire shop, and the contact was informed that the two front tires had sustained tread belt separation and bulges. The two front tires were replaced. Additionally, the contact stated while driving 65-70 MPH, the TPMS warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the tire shop, and the contact was informed that the rear passenger's side tire had sustained tread belt separation, and the metallic belt was poking through the rubber. The contact requested that the rear tires be replaced as a precautionary measure. The rear tires were replaced. All four tires were replacement tires. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle failure mileage was 173,414. The tire failure mileage was approximately 16,022. The VIN was not available.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 TOYOTA SIENNA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE GOING AROUND A CURVE, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY SLOWED ABRUPTLY WITHOUT THE BRAKE PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED. THE TRACTION CONTROL WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER COLONIAL TOYOTA (2600 W PIKE RD, INDIANA, PA 15701, (724) 471-4287) SUGGESTED THAT THE ISSUE MAY BE DUE TO A BROKEN WIRE OR A DIRTY SENSOR. IT WAS SUGGESTED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE FRONT AND REAR WHEEL HUBS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE REPAIRS WERE COMPLETED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE SAME INDEPENDENT MECHANIC REPLACED AND THE SPEED SENSORS WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY OR RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
My vehicle steering/control has frozen a few times in the past 18-24 mos. This happens for me in wet conditions at slow speeds while trying to turn, usually to the right. The car also seems to slow on its own and pull to the side at these times. This has also happened while reversing out of a parking spot. I do not recall seeing any lights engage but I am more focused on steering the car safely and exterior factors at these times so I haven't noticed the dashboard. It feels like the power steering fails, and I have no control. Thankfully, I have not been moving at high rates of speed, nor been in a position to go into the lane of on-coming traffic or had someone in a lane near me, and have been able to hold in position or manually turn as much as needed. Steering seems to return once the turn is complete. I have been fearful of hitting someone or being hit from behind each time. My mechanic has been unable to recreate the experience and was unable to suggest a direct answer. I see others have had similar experiences and the same lack of answers from even Toyota. Having come across this website and seeing responses here to this exact problem I have had, I am hoping for more information or a recall soon!
Bought the van used last year. Previous owner said mechanic could not diagnose the issue. On slight curves similar to on-ramps while accelerating the Vehicle stability control (VSC) will engage unexpectedly, sound an alarm and jerk the steering wheel. Some times to the point of pulling the vehicle out of its lane. Road speed is decreased dramatically as it feels as though the ABS is engaging. This has happened to me at least half a dozen times since June 2023. The condition will continue for maybe five or ten seconds until the wheel is straightened and speed reduced. Searching the Internet seems it's a fairly common problem. The fix might be to replace the steering rack or disable the VSC system. It's reported by those experiencing the issue get little to no help from the dealerships which strikes me as quite strange... From what I've read it seems to affect 2004-2009 Siennas
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 TOYOTA SIENNA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT WAS TOO LONG AND WOULD NOT TIGHTEN. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT WAS UNABLE TO FOLD BACK INTO THE SEAT OR REVERT BACK TO REGULAR LENGTH. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 72,000.
TO NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION REPRESENTATIVES, THIS E-MAIL IS SENT REGARDING MY ALERT TO THE DANGER AND SAFETY CONCERNS TO CITIZENS REGARDING THE USED CAR SALES AT HONDA OF FORT MYERS, FLORIDA. DUE TO A "2006 TOYOTA SIENNA" IN FORT MYERS, FLORIDA, THAT WAS SOLD AS IN VERY GOOD TO EXCELLENT MECHANICAL CONDITION AND FREE OF DEFECTS. IT IS BEEN RECENTLY DISCOVERED THAT A MAJOR FRONT END ACCIDENT OCCURRED ON 11/16/206 IN FLORIDA. THE IMPACT SEVERITY CAUSED FUNCTIONALITY CONCERNS AND DEFECTS TO THE AIRBAGS, AIRBAG SENSOR, AND SEAT BELTS WHICH WERE NEVER REPAIRED PROPERLY FROM THIS ACCIDENT AND LEFT DAMAGED AND DEFECTIVE. SADLY, THE CARFAX HISTORY HAD ONLY BEGUN REPORTING THIS DATA ON 10/31/2011. THE OWNERS OR USED CAR DEALERSHIP NEGLECTED TO DISCLOSE THIS FACTS AND OTHER SEVERE DEFECTS, RECALLS, AND DAMAGES THAT OCCURRED TO THE ENGINE. THE INTERNAL DAMAGES AND SAFETY FEATURES WERE DISCOVERED THROUGH LEGITIMATE DIAGNOSTIC BY TOYOTA. PLEASE HELP ME TO RECOVER AND OBTAIN THE POLICE REPORT OR RECORD HELD BY LAW ENFORCEMENT REGARDING THE MAJOR ACCIDENT INCIDENT ON THIS VEHICLE THAT OCCURRED ON NOVEMBER 16, 2006, IN FLORIDA. THIS VEHICLE MAY HAVE BEEN A SALVAGE /RE-TITLED BUT NEVER APPROPRIATELY AND PROPERLY REPAIRED FOR CITIZENS USE ON THE ROADS AND HIGHWAYS. CARFAX HAS PROVIDED NO RESPONSE TO MY E-MAIL TO ME BUT CARFAX BEGAN REPORTING THIS INFORMATION ON OCTOBER 31, 2011. IN ADDITION, THE VIN # HAS APPEARED IN REPORTS AS AN XLE OR AS A LIMITED MODEL DESIGN WHICH IMPLIES DECEPTION, USED CAR DEALERSHIP FRAUD, OR MISUSE OF THE VIN # REGARDING DOING THE NECESSARY, REQUIRED, AND CORRECT REPAIRS TO MAKE THE VEHICLE SAFE TO DRIVE AND PERFORM SAFETY RECALLS NOTICES VIA CERTIFIED MAIL SENT ON THIS VEHICLE TO THE OWNER OR USED CAR DEALERSHIP AT HONDA OF FORT MYERS. YOUR COOPERATION IS GREATLY APPRECIATED. I LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
Bought the van used last year. Previous owner said mechanic could not diagnose the issue. On slight curves similar to on-ramps while accelerating the Vehicle stability control (VSC) will engage unexpectedly, sound an alarm and jerk the steering wheel. Some times to the point of pulling the vehicle out of its lane. Road speed is decreased dramatically as it feels as though the ABS is engaging. This has happened to me at least half a dozen times since June 2023. The condition will continue for maybe five or ten seconds until the wheel is straightened and speed reduced. Searching the Internet seems it's a fairly common problem. The fix might be to replace the steering rack or disable the VSC system. It's reported by those experiencing the issue get little to no help from the dealerships which strikes me as quite strange... From what I've read it seems to affect 2004-2009 Siennas
The bushing for the gear shift is broken causing the lever to disconnect from the cord preventing the vehicle from shifting gears. This caused the vehicle to become stuck in reverse. The car was stuck in reverse when attempting to shift to drive, nearly causing my wife to crash into another vehicle. There are multiple videos on YouTube demonstrating this problem, it is a known issue. The vehicle/component has not been manufactured. No warning lamps, messages or other symptoms.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
This is a Braun Side Entry Rampvan Conversion. In 2008 there was a safety bulleting 34238 in which I took the vehicle in for inspection and any corrections. On January 19,2023 the rear axle mount broke off while driving. The vehicle was inspected by my insurance company, who denied my claim saying it was a result of wear and tear. The car fax report states it is a total loss due to flooding, which I am in the process of disputing. The cost to repair is several thousand dollars. Do I have any recourse regarding my vehicle. I had the vehicle serviced at Toyota for some normal mtce December 22 & 14th total cost of $3000.00, and there was no mention from them that there was an issue, which could have caused an accident.
I WAS DRIVING MY VAN IN KINGS MTN. HWY 216, WHEN I HEARD A LOUD SOUND FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE, THE BACK OF THE CAR STARTED FISHTAILING. I WAS NEAR A GARAGE, SO I STOPPED AND THEY TOLD ME MY REAR AXLE HAD COME LOOSE AND I NEEDED TO TAKE IT TO A MOBILITY DEALER. I CALLED ILLDERTON IN CHARLOTTE AND HAD IT TOWED THERE. ULTIMATELY THEY TOLD ME TO TAKE IT TO A BODY SHOP. I CALLED BRAUN AND THE WOMAN SAID, "THERE IS NO WARRANTY, THE CAR IS OVER 10 YEARS OLD, THEY DON'T LAST FOREVER". I PAID OUT OF POCKET TO HAVE IT REPAIRED AND THEN FOUND OUT THERE WAS A RECALL. IT STATES: ON CERTAIN HANDICAPPED MOBILITY CONVERSION RAMPVANS MANUFACTURED BY INDEPENDENT MOBILITY SYSTEMS AND BUILT ON TOYOTA MINIVAN CHASSIS, THE DRIVER SIDE REAR AXLE BEAM MOUNT MAY NOT HAVE BEEN ADEQUATELY WELDED TO THE CHASSIS. THIS MAY RESULT IN A SQUEAKING NOISE, A ROUGH RIDE, OR DEGRADATION IN VEHICLE CONTROL. CONSEQUENCE: THE MOUNT MAY BECOME PARTIALLY SEPARATED FROM THE CHASSIS. PASSENGERS, PEDESTRIANS, OR OTHER MOTORISTS MAY BE INJURED OR KILLED. THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENED. SEE PHOTO
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 TOYOTA SIENNA. WHILE DRIVING AROUND A CURVE AT 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE SEIZED AND THE TRACTION WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO CONTINUE DRIVING WITHOUT ANY FURTHER ISSUE. THE CONTACT CALLED GLOCKNER TOYOTA (LOCATED AT 2867 US-23, PORTSMOUTH, OH 45662, (740) 354-3255) AND INFORMED THEM OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE CONTINUED TO EXPERIENCE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 89,000.
I OWN A 2006 TOYOTA SIENNA LE WITH ONLY 26500 MILES ON IT. I WAS DRIVING MY CAR ON THE HIGHWAY DOING 45 MILES PER HOUR ON A DRY PAVEMENT ON TUESDAY 09/03/2019 AROUND 6:40 PM AND AT A SUDDEN MOMENT THE VSC LIGHT STARTED FLASHING, WARNING SOUND CAME ON, THE CAR APPLIED THE BRAKES ON ITS OWN HARD UNTIL IT FULLY STOPPED, AND THE ENGINE SHUT OFF BY ITSELF, WHICH ALMOST GOT ME INTO AN ACCIDENT. I CONTACTED TOYOTA AND THEY TOLD ME THAT I HAVE TO PAY FOR THE DEALER TO GET THE CAR DIAGNOSED FOR THIS SAFETY ISSUE, THEY TRANSFERRED ME TO HUDSON TOYOTA AND THEY CONFIRMED THAT I HAVE TO PAY FOR IT DESPITE THAT I HAD MY CAR TO THE DEALER RECENTLY FOR TWO RECALLS AND THEY CHECKED THE CAR AND GAVE ME A REPORT THAT EVERYTHING IN THE CAR WAS GOOD. I HAVE LOOKED ONLINE AND I FOUND A LOT OF TOYOTA SIENNA OWNERS FROM THIS MODEL COMPLAINING ABOUT IT AND YOUTUBE VIDEOS DOCUMENTING IT, THIS LINK SHOWS A TOYOTA SIENNA OWNER DOCUMENTING ON VIDEO THE SAME PROBLEM (HTTPS://YOUTU.BE/SY9A8SHJ0XG) WHICH HAPPENED WITH HIM 20 TIMES IN THE COURSE OF 90 MINUETS AND THE DEALER COULD NOT FIND WHAT WAS WRONG WITH HIS CAR. THIS ISSUE SHOULD BE FIXED UNDER A RECALL BY TOYOTA BECAUSE THE CAR SHOULD NOT BE ABLE TO APPLY THE BRAKE ON ITS OWN RANDOMLY ON THE HIGHWAY.
Transmission
Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.
From owner reports, verbatim
2006 TOYOTA SIENNA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO SHIFT LOCK SAFETY RECALL. *LD *TR
TOYOTA SIENNA LE 2006 WITH 72,000 MILES AUTOMATIC BROKE DOWN ON THE HIGHWAY --- REFUSING TO GO BEYOND 35MILES AN HOUR AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THE TOYOTA DEALER CLAIMED THAT THE TRANSMISSION HAD TO BE REPLACED AT A COST OF ABOUT 5500 + AND DIAGNOSED ONLY TRANSMISSION PROBLEM. TO GET A SECOND OPINION, WE GOT THE VEHICLE TOWED TO AAMCO, THE TRANSMISSION EXPERTS. AAMCO REPLACED VALVE BODY, TORQUE CONVERTER, AND THEIR STANDARD BANNER KIT + TRANSMISSION COOLING SYSTEM FLUSH AND CLEAN. AAMCO ASKED US TO BE SOFT ON THE TRANSMISSION FOR A TANK OF GAS. INSPITE OF DRIVING SLOWLY, WE NOTICED THAT THE TRANSMISSION CHANGE FROM ABOUT 1ST TO 2ND GEAR WAS VERY SLOW AND THE CAR HAD LIKE A HICCUP WHEN TRYING TO ACCELERATE AND EXHIBITED VIBRATION AT HIGHER SPEEDS. WHEN WE TOOK IT BACK TO AAMCO, THEY TEST DROVE THE SAME AND NOW CLAIM THE COMPUTER (ECM?) IS NOT LEARNING THE GEAR SHIFT AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. TOYOTA DEALER CLAIMS THAT THE 8YR/80000MILE WARRANTY ON THE COMPUTER IS ONLY FOR A MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THE COMPUTER IS MISBEHAVING. THERE IS NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT OR ERROR CODE, BUT THE VEHICLE REMAINS SLUGGISH. WE ARE WAITING FOR THE PRICING OF THE ECM MODULE AND WOULD SINCERELY APPRECIATE IF THE PROBLEM IS ACKNOWLEDGED AND RESOLVED BY TOYOTA. GONE ARE THE DAYS WHEN TOYOTA WAS A RELIABLE CAR --- WE ARE FRUSTRATED WITH THE WHOLE EPISODE AND UNFORTUNATELY ARE NOT CONFIDENT OF WHAT ELSE NEEDS TO GET REPLACED TO GET THE CAR UP AND RUNNING. *TR
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
02/16/17 AT 5:57PM, WHILE TRAVELING NORTHBOUND ON HWY 63 (LIKELIKE) BEFORE ENTERING THE WILSON TUNNEL, A ROCK FLEW UP AND DAMAGED MY WINDSHIELD ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. IT IS SPLINTERING THE WINDSHIELD. WHO DO I CONTACT TO REPLACE IT?
I HAVE BEEN THE OWNER OF TWO 2006 SIENNA VANS AND BOTH HAVE HAD FAILURE OF BOTH OF THE SIDE MIRRORS. THE MIRRORS BECOME FLOPPY AND WILL NOT HOLD THEIR POSITION. THIS RESULTS IN THE LOSS OF BLIND SPOT VISIBILITY ON BOTH SIDES OF THE VEHICLE. THERE IS NO SPECIFIC INCIDENT THAT CAUSES THE FAILURE. IT IS EXPENSIVE TO FIX AND WOULD SEEM TO BE A SAFETY ISSUE. WHILE THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL CLOSE CALLS OF ATTEMPTING TO CHANGE LANES AND THINKING THE MIRROR WAS IN THE CORRECT POSITION ONLY TO FIND THERE WAS A VEHICLE IN THE BLIND SPOT I HAVE AVOIDED AN ACCIDENT. *TR
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
MY POWER DOOR STOP WORKING ON THE DRIVER BACK SIDE. I HAD TO FORCE ITS CLOSE. AND NOW I CAN'T GET IT TO OPEN BACK UP. THE BACK ROW BELT WON'T PULL DOWN. SO ITS CAN'T BE USED NOW. AND THE FUEL MILES ON THIS VAN IS VERY POOR AT 11. TOYOTA IS VERY HIGH PRICE WHEN ITS COME TO LITTLE PROBLEMS.
MY NAME IS [XXX]I AM A QUADRIPLEGIC PARALYZED PERSON.I LIVE BY MYSELF WITH 24 HOUR CNA CARE. I WAS INJURED AT WORK ON NOV.2000 BY A GUN SHOT. I BOUGHT A VAN IN 2006.RIGHT AFTER ONE YEAR,I NOTICED CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON. I TOOK MY VAN TO STEVENSON TOYOTA DEALER,AURORA,CO. AFTER DIAGNOSTICS,THEY FOUND GAS/OIL LEAKAGE FROM MY GAS CAP. THEY CHANGED GAS CAP,CLEARED THE CODE. 3 WEEK LATER,CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME BACK ON.AGAIN I TOOK IT BACK,SAME DIAGNOSTICS,GAS LEAKAGE FROM GAS CAP.AGAIN CLEARED THE CODE FROM THEIR MACHINE. 2 WEEKS LATER,CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME BACK. I TOOK MY VAN SEVERAL TIMES BACK TO THE DEALER BUT NEVER SOLVED THE PROBLEM. I PARK MY VAN AT A GARAGE. I'VE NOTICED THAT MY VAN IS TAKING LOTS OF GAS AND STRONG SMELL OF GAS IN GARAGE. I AM REALLY SCARED OF CAUGHT ON FIRE INSIDE THE GARAGE OR FIRE ON MY VAN. I AM TIRED OF PAYING LOTS OF MONEY I AM VERY LOW INCOME PERSON. NOW THEY ARE SAYING I'VE TO PAY WHOLE BUNCH OF MONEY THAT I CAN'T AFFORD. THE PERSON I TALKED TO THE DEALER IS CON VO.HE IS VERY RUDE AND SAYING THAT HE CAN'T FIND MY VAN INFO. IN HIS SYSTEM BUT OTHER LADY I TALKED TO SAYS SHE CAN .AND MY DOOR IS HARD TO OPEN.I HEARD THAT THERE IS SLUDGE/OIL RECALL TO ADDRESS THIS PROBLEM. SO I'D LIKE TO REQUEST YOU TO INVESTIGATE MY PROBLEM AND FIND A REASONABLE SOLUTION FOR THIS.THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS YOU. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
ABS, VSC, TRAC OFF, BRAKE LIGHTS ON CONTINUOUSLY, PLUS TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT BLINKING. THIS IS NOT NORMAL AND ALSO ANNOYING. TOYOTA DOESN'T SEEM TO KNOW WHAT THE PROBLEM IS, AND IS ONLY WILLING TO ALLOW ME TO SPEND THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS TO "TRY" TO FIX THIS. TOYOTA NEEDS TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY! VEHICLE DRIVES NORMALLY. LIGHTS HAVE BEEN ON FOR MONTHS. I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD, WITH A CAR LOAD OF CHILDREN, LATE AT NIGHT, COMING HOME FROM A FOOTBALL GAME WHEN THE LIGHTS CAME ON. WE WERE DRIVING ACROSS A LONG BRIDGE, ON A 6-LANE ROADWAY, GOING ABOUT 50 MILES AN HOUR. VERY SCARY! I PULLED OVER, BUT SOON REALIZED THE CARE WAS DRIVABLE. I'VE SPENT SO MUCH MONEY, TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHAT IS GOING ON. I AM SEEING ONLINE THAT THIS IS NOT EXCLUSIVE TO TOYOTAS. MANY VEHICLES EXHIBIT THIS ISSUE. INSTEAD OF HELPING US FIX IT, WE ARE SUPPOSE TO PAY MECHANICS (DEALERS OR INDIVIDUALS), THEN THE PROBLEM COMES BACK. SEEMS NO ONE REALLY KNOWS WHY THIS IS HAPPENING. I'VE BEEN AN EXCLUSIVE TOYOTA OWNER FOR YEARS. IT DISAPPOINTS ME THAT TOYOTA WON'T HELP.
THE DASH START CRACKING UP FOR NO APPARENT REASON AND THE CAR IS MOSTLY PARK INSIDE A GARAGE DAY AND NIGHT. I HAVE CALLED DEALERS AND NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE SO FAR AND I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT'S A MANUFACTURER DEFECT AND IT SHOULD BE CORRECTED BY DEALER. THE TRANSMISSION SOME TIMES DOES NOT CHANGE THE GEARS AND OTHERS STOP TO WORK AND I COULD CAUSE A REAR END COLLISION. *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Heating & air conditioning
Reports naming the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system.
From owner reports, verbatim
2006 TOYOTA SIENNA. CONSUMER STATES PROBLEM WITH VEHICLE AIR CONDITIONER NOT WORKING. *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED A VALVE WAS REPLACED. *JB
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .