Best & Worst Toyota Sienna Years | Years To Avoid

Having trouble making a decision about which Toyota Sienna you should buy? Based on the model year, we’ve broken down the Toyota Sienna to determine which year to get and which one to steer clear of.

Family vehicles like the Toyota Sienna are popular because of their spacious interior and excellent safety ratings.

Considering that each generation has a long history of production, each model year offers advantages and disadvantages.

In this guide, we cover each Sienna model year in detail, starting with the best and ending with the worst. In addition, the term ‘neutral’ refers to a middle ground between the best and the worst.

Toyota Siennas come in four generations:

Generation	Years
Toyota Sienna (4th generation, XL40)	2021-Present
Toyota Sienna (3rd generation, XL30)	2011-2020
Toyota Sienna (2nd generation, XL20)	2004-2010
Toyota Sienna (1st generation, XL10)	1998-2003

In order to make an informed decision, potential buyers must understand the key differences between each generation. A thorough review of data from several reliable sources led to the categories of ‘Best,’ ‘Neutral,’ and ‘Worst.

As the name suggests, a neutral year is characterized by no significant problems and a high level of reliability and owner satisfaction. Our evaluation may reveal that all the pros and cons are equally balanced, or that they are average based on all the factors considered.

An overview of model years is provided below:

Generation	Best Years	Neutral Years	Worst Years
XL40 (2021-Present)	2021 2023	2022	N/A
XL30 (2011-2020)	2011 2012 2015 2016 2018 2020	2013	2014 2017 2019
XL20 (2004-2010)	2005 2006	2004 2009	2007 2008 2010
XL10 (1998-2003)	2000 2001 2002	1998 1999	2003

The following factors were taken into consideration when determining the rankings:

There are some factors that can negatively impact safety, such as recalls issued by NHTSA. A car with a high number of recalls will therefore have a lower reliability rating.

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Best & Worst Years For Toyota Sienna 4th Generation [2021 to Present]

The interior of Sienna remained spacious and comfortable following the fourth generation.

2021 and 2023 are the best years

In recent years, hybrid powertrains have made it possible to achieve fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.

A modern interior design and comprehensive safety features make these years among the finest of the current generation.

2022 is the Neutral Year

The 2014 Sienna did not receive any significant updates, but it had solid performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency, meriting a ‘Neutral’ rating.

Due to the relative newness of the generation, there haven’t been any ‘worst’ years, as all models have demonstrated high levels of reliability and performance.

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Best & Worst Years For Toyota Sienna 3rd Generation [2011 to 2020]

Earlier this year, the interior of the Sienna was revamped to make it a more comfortable and entertainment-focused vehicle.

2011-2012, 2015-2016, 2018-2020 are the best years

They were distinguished by a 3.5L V6 engine that was more fuel efficient and more powerful than their competitors.

As part of the 2018 redesign, Toyota introduced an advanced infotainment system and a cutting-edge safety system named Toyota Safety Sense P. As a result, they received the “Best” award for their third generation of the vehicle.

2013 is the neutral year

The 2013 model was not impressive in terms of significant improvements, but it still performed well, was comfortable, and was reliable. This year, therefore, falls into the category of ‘Neutral’.

2014, 2017, and 2019 were the worst years

While this period was in effect, some issues remained with the entertainment system and the interior. This generation was considered to have the worst problems due to their increased frequency.

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Best & Worst Years For Toyota Sienna 2nd Generation [2004 to 2010]

In 2004, the second generation of the Sienna was launched and was characterized by a sleeker design and larger interior, alongside a number of extra features not seen in its predecessor.

2005 and 2006 were the best years

During this period, the Sienna was able to deliver more horsepower and smoother performance due to its 3.3L V6 engine.

Besides third-row fold-flat seats and all-wheel drive, the second generation was also marked by the introduction of third-row seats that folded flat.

2004 and 2009 were the neutral years

A number of problems plagued the 2004 model prior to its release, despite the fact that it introduced a number of new features. As far as ownership experiences with the 2009 model were concerned, there was no significant improvement or disadvantage.

The years in question are therefore regarded as neutral.

2007-2010 were the worst years

During the past two decades, power sliding doors and air conditioning systems have experienced an increase in problems.

There were several recalls on the Sienna in these years as well, so these are also considered to be the ‘worst’ years.

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Best & Worst Years For Toyota Sienna 1st Generation [1998 to 2003]

A minivan aimed at breaking into the Toyota market, the Sienna was introduced in 1998.

2000, 2001, and 2002 were the best years

Due to the reliability and safety features of its 3.0L V6 engine, the Sienna earned its place as ‘Best’ during these years.

There is no doubt that these model years rank among the best of the first generation with regard to comfort and drive quality. Compared to last year, fewer problems have been reported, and consumers have written positive reviews. Among the 2002 models tested for crash tests, the 2002 model earned the highest ratings.

1998 and 1999 were neutral years

As the Toyota Sienna was being developed, Toyota attempted to enter the minivan market during these years.

In spite of their reliability and safety, vehicles from these years lacked the technological advances of later years. No major defects were reported, which resulted in the rating of ‘Neutral’.

2003 was one of the worst years

Reports indicate that the 2003 model year had more problems than the previous year.

In addition to causing engine failures, oil sludge also caused steering problems. In light of these issues, we have put the first generation of this year in our category of ‘unfavorable’.

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Are Toyota Siennas Generally Reliable?

While the Toyota Sienna is a reliable minivan, there are others on the market that are more reliable. In comparison to other cars, Withclutch.com rates the Toyota Sienna highly reliable with a score of 74.05.

Another opinion can be helpful as well. A rating of 3.5/5 stars is given to the Toyota Sienna by repairpal.com in terms of reliability. The minivan is ranked 6th among eight models available.

There are an average of $554 in repair costs per Sienna driver a year, which is lower than average for the industry. It is 15% likely that there will be major or severe issues when there is a problem.

An estimated 0.4 unexpected repairs are performed on Toyota Sienna vehicles each year. For similar minivans, the number is also the same. 

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Which Sienna Years Are The Least Reliable?

Make sure the used car you are considering is as reliable as possible if you are thinking about buying it. You can avoid cars that cost a lot to repair over time when you compare Toyota Sienna years that are least reliable.

According to Toyota Sienna reliability statistics, the following years are available:

If you want to find out which Toyota Sienna year has the highest reliability, you should avoid these models.

It is not worth your time to buy these models, regardless of how much they cost. Over these years, you’re more likely to incur more repair expenses, which ultimately hurts your bank account. 

All Toyota Siennas have the same problems no matter what year they were manufactured. Before you buy one, it is important to understand how they work.

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What Are The Most Common Issues With A Toyota Sienna?

The most common faults on any Toyota Sienna can be determined regardless of which version you own. It seems that owners are experiencing these problems in large numbers.

In regards to the Toyota Sienna, motorbiscuit.com reports the following problems:

Electric sliding door troubles

The Toyota Sienna’s electric sliding doors are susceptible to problems between the mid-2000s and early 2010 when they are manufactured. 

In most cases, doors open and close incorrectly, get stuck, or don’t work at all. There are several possible causes for this problem, including a malfunctioning door motor, misaligned tracks, and worn hinges and cables.

Dashboard cracks

The problem in Siennas has been increasing since the mid-2000s. The interior construction may suffer from cracks due to these factors, which are unsightly and indicate a deeper problem with the materials’ quality and durability. The problem can be worsened if you expose yourself to intense sunlight and heat.

Failing oxygen sensor

The oxygen sensors on Siennas from the mid-2000s and early 2000s are particularly susceptible to failure. Emissions are reduced by the oxygen sensor because it optimizes fuel combustion. Additionally, an oxygen sensor can malfunction, leading to decreased fuel economy and rough idle, as well as increased emissions. The check engine light should be illuminated when there is a malfunctioning oxygen sensor and it needs to be replaced immediately.

Oil leaks and engine issues

It is possible for certain Sienna engines, especially those powered by V6 engines, to leak oil over time because of faulty valve cover gaskets, timing cover seals, or oil cooler lines. Additionally, certain engines have been reported to consume too much oil.

You may need to take your car to the shop if these problems persist.

Purchasing a Toyota Sienna from a reliable year will decrease your chances of experiencing these problems. The quality of your car will always be a problem, no matter what you choose.

The Sienna provides a good level of reliability, but there are also a few other things to consider. Does it really pay off?

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Is The Toyota Sienna Worth It?

Toyota Sienna minivans have a reputation for being reliable for long periods of time, so if you need one, then this is the vehicle for you. In the future, millions of dollars won’t be spent on repairs because of its reliability.

There are a few flaws in the Toyota Sienna, but it remains an excellent choice for anyone. There are many excellent minivans on the market, and Toyota Siennas are among the best.

Make sure you choose a reliable year, otherwise you may have to pay a lot for unexpected repairs later on. Do not rush your decisions. Take your time.

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Conclusion

Despite the bumps along the way, Toyota has had an incredible journey so far.

As you read this guide, we have listed the Toyota Sienna years that you should avoid and those that you should choose.

Do you remember when you last parked your Sienna on your driveway? How was it living with them for what period of time? I would appreciate if you could tell the story of how you came to own a Sienna, so others may be encouraged to purchase one.