1998 Toyota Sienna LE review from North America
"Sucks!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Just below 50,000 miles, oil consumption rose and blue smoke on startup. Dealer says that the engine has sludge, and that Toyota will not repair it under warranty since this "obviously" indicates a lack of oil changes. The van has had regular oil changes at 4 mo./4000 mile intervals.
The van also has several squeaks and rattles, especially in the dash and right side sliding door. Rear brakes developed an intermittent squeal.
General comments?
The van is quiet and fairly comfortable, but we liked the Dodge better when test driving. Concerns about its transmission and belief in "Toyota quality" led us to the Sienna. Big mistake!
Based on the obvious lack of quality and even worse backing of their product, I'll never buy anything else that Toyota makes. Worst car I've ever had, by a long stretch.
Recommended reviews
  | Surprisingly unreliable |
| Great van!!! We loved it!! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 0/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 59000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Taurus |
| Date of Entry | 9th February, 2002 |