2000 Toyota Sienna LE review from North America

Driver's side window/lock switch.

Hatch door handle.

Leaking coolant.

Poor gas mileage.

We previously had a Toyota Rav4 and upgraded to a Sienna once we had kids. I've generally had good luck with Toyota and thought I would have minimal problems. Overall the vehicle is OK, but it's not built as well as previous Toyotas I've had. Little things like the Driver's side door switch broke (leaving the passenger window permanently open). This part costs over $250 from the dealer and is a common failure on this model. Hard to find the switch in junk yards as they get scooped up quickly. The other common failure is the back hatch door handle which has an internal release part that is made of thin plastic and breaks easily, another common failure on this model. There is even a web site devoted to fixing it on the cheap with a nut and bolt (only worked temporarily in my case). I was very disappointed in the gas mileage. I usually get between 15 and 17 miles/gallon in town and I'm lucky if I get 20 on the highway. I know it's a heavy vehicle, but my Dad's Ford F150 with a small V8 gets better gas mileage. I also had a coolant leak that was traced to a gasket on the lower part of the engine (had it fixed at a local garage for $200).

After buying the van I found out about the oil sludge problem that can occur with this model so I keep an eye on the oil and try to change it regularly. So far it seems to be OK. The previous owner of my van took good care of it and did proper maintenance. I've been told that the oil sludge problem is usually due to poor maintenance so if you buy a pre-2003 Sienna try to make sure that you see some service records.

The van rides well and has reasonable power. It's also comfortable on long trips (I drove it across country). The space in the back is pretty good. All of the back seats come out with some effort (they're all a bit heavy and cumbersome). We plan on keeping the van until it dies. I think with diligent oil changes and regular maintenance it might last a while. However, Toyota has the reputation of making tough vehicles with low maintenance needs. Maybe this model is just the exception.