FaultScore

FaultScore report

2016 Toyota Sienna problems

Owners have filed 98 complaints about the 2016 Toyota Sienna with NHTSA between 2016 and 2025. The largest single group is the body & structure. Across this model's run it ranks 9 of 23 worst.

C

FaultScore 55/100

Higher is worse. Measured against the other years of the Toyota Sienna.

How this is worked out

The numbers

98

Complaints

10

Crashes reported

3

Fires reported

6

Injuries reported

18,000 mi

Median mileage at failure

Half of reported failures happened before this

79%

Failed under 36,000 miles

Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty

What kind of bad

The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.

Complaint volume 10 vs 50 Severity 100 vs 50 Early failure 100 vs 50
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 10
Against the median year of the Toyota Sienna. 50 means typical for this model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
19.4% of these complaints involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of 9.7%.
Early failure — 100
79% of failures with a mileage on record happened under 36,000 miles, against a national rate of 29%.

How 2016 compares with every other Toyota Sienna

Click any bar to open that year's report.

Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade: A B C D F ungraded

What breaks on a 2016 Toyota Sienna

Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.

Body & Structure 27 27.6%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 30,000 mi

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 14,750 mi

Electrical System 9 9.2%

0 crashes, 1 fires · median 19,000 mi

Seat Belts 6 6.1%

Median failure at 30,000 miles

Wheels 5 5.1%

Median failure at 12,500 miles

Airbags 5 5.1%

3 crashes, 0 fires · median 18,500 mi

Doors, Latches & Locks 4 4.1%

Median failure at 35,050 miles

Lights 4 4.1%

Median failure at 17,000 miles

Steering 4 4.1%

3 crashes, 0 fires · median 21,452 mi

Engine & Cooling 4 4.1%

0 crashes, 1 fires · median 16,000 mi

Windows, Mirrors & Wipers 3 3.1%

Median failure at 25,389 miles

Transmission & Drivetrain 3 3.1%

Median failure at 6,000 miles

Seats 2 2.0%

Median failure at 500 miles

Acceleration & Cruise Control 2 2.0%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 18,000 mi

Suspension 2 2.0%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 33,500 mi

Driver Assist & Collision Avoidance 1 1.0%

Median failure at 100 miles

Tires 1 1.0%

Median failure at 3,750 miles

Fuel & Propulsion 1 1.0%

0 crashes, 1 fires · median 35,000 mi

Brakes 1 1.0%

Median failure at 14,300 miles

Exactly what failed

NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.

Body 23 74.2%
Latch 3 9.7%
Camera System 1 3.2%
Instrument Cluster/Panel 1 3.2%
Hatchback/Liftgate 1 3.2%
Door 1 3.2%
Hinge AND Attachments 1 3.2%

When it fails

Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.

Under 1,000 miles 8 14.3%
1,000 – 9,999 miles 11 19.6%
10,000 – 24,999 miles 15 26.8%
25,000 – 49,999 miles 14 25.0%
50,000 – 74,999 miles 5 8.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles 2 3.6%
100,000 – 149,999 miles 1 1.8%

When owners complained

A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single owner can see from inside their own car.

May 2016 peak 12 Aug 2025

Recalls on the 2016 Toyota Sienna

A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous enough to fix for free — however old the car is.

United States — NHTSA

25V876000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY:WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINTS/SECUREMENT:LATCH/ANCHOR:

Rollx Vans (Rollx) is recalling certain GMC Yukon, Sierra, Chevrolet Express 2500, Ford Transit, E-250, Toyota Sienna, Sienna Hybrid, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town and Country, Voyager, Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Ram Promaster vehicles equipped with QRT-Deluxe and QRT-Max wheelchair restraints. Please refer to Rollx's recall report for specific model year information. The retractors may not lock, preventing the wheelchair from being properly secured.

Risk: An unsecured wheelchair can move during transit, increasing the risk of injury.

19V553000

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Vantage Mobility International, LLC (Vantage) is recalling certain 2012-2018 AMS Genesis wheelchair vans, built on a Toyota Sienna vehicles. The rubber brake hoses that attach to the rear wheel assembly may be too short, causing them to rub against the rear axle trailing arm.

Risk: The contact may cause failure of the rear brake hoses, resulting in a loss of vehicle control and reduced braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.

19V410000

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Braun Corporation (Braun) is recalling certain 2014-2019 Toyota Sienna mobility van conversions. The brake lines may have incorrect tube nut fittings installed, which may cause a pressure drop within the braking system.

Risk: The reduction in the braking system pressure may cause a loss of braking power in the rear braking system, increasing the risk of crash.

16V858000

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 Toyota Sienna minivans manufactured January 4, 2010, to August 12, 2016. If the power sliding door is unable to be opened when commanded, such as if the door is frozen shut, the door may subsequently open unexpectedly, possibly while the vehicle is moving.

Risk: If door opens while the vehicle is moving, there would be an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants.

16V197000

SEAT BELTS:FRONT

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2016 Toyota Sienna vehicles manufactured February 15, 2016, to February 19, 2016. In the affected vehicles, incorrect front seat belt height adjusters may have been installed. During a crash, this incorrect height adjuster may contact the B-pillar and tear or separate.

Risk: Failure and detachment of seat belt height adjuster would result in the occupant not being properly restrained in a crash, increasing their risk of injury.

Canada — Transport Canada

Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not always mirror the American ones.

Recall 2021723 55,683 units in Canada

Electrical

Issue: This recall is for certain block heater kits installed on certain vehicles or sold as accessories at Toyota or Lexus dealerships. On certain vehicles, the engine block heater cable may not have enough heat protection and could be damaged by high temperatures. If this happens, the cable could short circuit while plugged in, and cause the wiring to overheat or melt. Note: This recall only affects the following block heater/cord part numbers: C014003034 PK5A408J09 PU14000904 C014003151 PK5A408J13 PU14000905 C014000885 PK5A489J11 PU14000907 C014000888 PK5A489J22 PU14000909 C014000907 PK5A410H00 PU14000911 C014100904 PU14000900 PU14000913 C014100907 PU14000901 PU14003571 C014100911 PU14000902 PK5A489J14 PK5A408J05 PU14000903 Safety Risk: Engine block heater wiring that overheats or melts could create the risk of a fire. Corrective Actions: Toyota recommends that you should stop using the engine block heater immediately. Toyota will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to disable the engine block heater. For some vehicles, the corrective actions for this recall are under development. For others, a new engine block heater cannot be installed, and the owner will receive a refund of the purchase price of the engine block heater.

Recall 2019317 25 units in Canada

Brakes

Issue: On certain vans converted to a rear-entry mobility vehicle by BraunAbility, the fittings for the brake line extensions may be incorrect. This could cause a brake fluid leak that may result in reducing braking. Note: This problem affects conversions that were built between January 9, 2018, and May 20, 2019. Safety Risk: Reduced braking could cause extended stopping distances and increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail and instruct them to take their vehicle to a BraunAbility dealer to inspect the brake line connections. If necessary, an adapter fitting will be installed and the brake system will be bled.

Recall 2017363 39,189 units in Canada

Electrical

On certain vehicles, the electrical power cords of some dealer installed block heaters may have been improperly manufactured, causing the wires to contact each other, resulting in a short circuit. A short circuit could lead to a fire which would increase the risk of injury and/or damage to property. Correction: For vehicles where the subject block heater was approved for installation, the dealer will replace the block heater assembly with a new one of an improved design. For vehicles where the subject block heater was not approved for installation, dealers will remove the block heater assembly. In the interim, until the remedy can be performed, dealers will cut the plug end from the block heater cord to disable the block heater's operation.

Recall 2016586 60,190 units in Canada

Structure

On certain vehicles equipped with power sliding doors, under certain conditions which impede the opening of the door (such as if the door becomes frozen with ice), the sliding door motor could stall when the door is operated. If the motor stalls, high current in the door motor circuit could be generated, operating the circuit protection for the door motor. If this occurs with the sliding door latch mechanism in an unlatched position, the door could open while driving, increasing the risk of injury to a vehicle occupant. Correction: Dealers will replace the existing junction block and the rear sliding door wire harnesses with newly designed ones. The dealer will also install two sub wire harnesses to connect the junction block to the two rear door wire harnesses.

Recalls cover specific build ranges, so check your own vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or, in Canada, Transport Canada.

Complaints that involved harm

Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.

Minot, ND Crash

AIR BAGS

A deer was struck on the driver to middle of the front of the van while traveling 75 mph on the highway. Caused significant enough damage that van was inoperable. What was concerning was the airbags did not deploy despite the significant force and high speed associated with this accident.

NHTSA complaint #11527575 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Sacramento, CA 1 injured

STRUCTURE:BODY

The rear sliding power door on the passenger side closed on my six year old child. He was trapped in the door and could not move until I opened the door. He has pain and visible injuries on his back from the door. This happened on 2.10.23. There have not been any incidents with the van leading up to this incident. This happened when the van was parked in the garage and the engine was off. We have not tried to replicate the incident because it caused an injury. The vehicle is available for inspection.

NHTSA complaint #11506720 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 22,000 miles Boynton, FL Crash

STEERING

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2016 TOYOTA SIENNA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL STIFFENED, WHICH RESULTED IN HER CRASHING THE VEHICLE INTO THE HIGHWAY SIDE BARRIER AND A FENCE STOPPED THE VEHICLE FROM GOING INTO THE WATER. THE CONTACT DID NOT SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND DEEMED TOTALED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE AND PERFORMED AN INVESTIGATION. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT FROM THE INSPECTION, THE EDR RECORDED VARIOUS STEERING INPUT PRIOR TO THE IMPACT, HOWEVER, THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE FOUND OF A STEERING DEFECT THAT CAUSED THE FAILURE, AND NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,000.

NHTSA complaint #11403888 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 35,000 miles Carmel, CA Fire

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

OUR 2016 TOYOTA SIENNA SPONTANEOUSLY CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED IN OUR DRIVEWAY AFTER RETURNING FROM A SHORT DRIVE. AFTER PULLING INTO OUR DRIVEWAY AND SHUTTING OFF THE IGNITION, MY WIFE SMELLED SMOKE AS SHE WAS EXITING THE PARKED VEHICLE. THIS SMOKE INTENSIFIED AND QUICKLY ACCELERATED BECOMING AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE. SHE CALLED FOR ME & THEN CALLED 911; BUT IN THE BRIEF MOMENTS IT TOOK ME TO GRAB A FIRE EXTINGUISHER, THE FIRE FURTHER INTENSIFIED WITH SIZABLE FLAMES ERUPTING OUT FROM AROUND THE HOOD, FRONT GRILL & UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. I USED UP 2 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS WITHOUT ANY SIGNIFICANT EFFECT. I DID NOT HAVE ANY PROTECTIVE SAFETY GEAR SO AFTER HEARING SEVERAL SMALL EXPLOSIONS COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD & FEARING MORE EXPOSURE TO NOXIOUS FUMES, I DECIDED TO ABANDON MY ATTEMPTS TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE FIRE DEPT. ARRIVED WITHIN A FEW MINUTES AND WERE ABLE TO PUT THE FIRE OUT; HOWEVER, THE FIRE PROGRESSED THROUGH THE INITIAL ATTACK AND ENTERED THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CAUSING SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE ENTIRE VEHICLE (SEE ATTACHED PHOTOS). THE SIENNA IS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. FORTUNATELY, THERE WERE NO INJURIES. I HAVE BEEN MADE AWARE OF MULTIPLE INCIDENTS OF ENGINE FIRES IN TOYOTA SIENNAS IN THIS & OTHER CLOSELY RELATED MODEL YEARS (2014-2017). SEE: NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11010601. I CAN ALSO SUPPLY YOU WITH SOME ADDITIONAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS OF OTHER TOYOTA SIENNA ENGINE FIRE REPORTS. OUR SIENNA WAS ROUTINELY MAINTAINED AS PER MANUFACTURER'S RECOMMENDATIONS & WAS LAST SERVICED ON 9/13/2019 (SEE ATTACHED SERVICE RECEIPT). THE VEHICLE HAD APPROX. 35K MILES ON IT & EXHIBITED NO PRIOR SIGNS OF TROUBLE, CHANGE IN PERFORMANCE OR WARNING INDICATOR LIGHTS. WE DID HAVE AN UNRESOLVED PROBLEM WITH AUTOMATIC SIDE DOORS NOT OPERATING PROPERLY AFTER A RECALL REPAIR; HOWEVER, THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER SERVICE DEPT. COULD NOT IDENTIFY A PROBLEM AFTER MULTIPLE SERVICE COMPLAINTS.

NHTSA complaint #11288762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 35,000 miles Carmel, CA Fire

ENGINE

OUR 2016 TOYOTA SIENNA SPONTANEOUSLY CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED IN OUR DRIVEWAY AFTER RETURNING FROM A SHORT DRIVE. AFTER PULLING INTO OUR DRIVEWAY AND SHUTTING OFF THE IGNITION, MY WIFE SMELLED SMOKE AS SHE WAS EXITING THE PARKED VEHICLE. THIS SMOKE INTENSIFIED AND QUICKLY ACCELERATED BECOMING AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE. SHE CALLED FOR ME & THEN CALLED 911; BUT IN THE BRIEF MOMENTS IT TOOK ME TO GRAB A FIRE EXTINGUISHER, THE FIRE FURTHER INTENSIFIED WITH SIZABLE FLAMES ERUPTING OUT FROM AROUND THE HOOD, FRONT GRILL & UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. I USED UP 2 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS WITHOUT ANY SIGNIFICANT EFFECT. I DID NOT HAVE ANY PROTECTIVE SAFETY GEAR SO AFTER HEARING SEVERAL SMALL EXPLOSIONS COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD & FEARING MORE EXPOSURE TO NOXIOUS FUMES, I DECIDED TO ABANDON MY ATTEMPTS TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE FIRE DEPT. ARRIVED WITHIN A FEW MINUTES AND WERE ABLE TO PUT THE FIRE OUT; HOWEVER, THE FIRE PROGRESSED THROUGH THE INITIAL ATTACK AND ENTERED THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CAUSING SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE ENTIRE VEHICLE (SEE ATTACHED PHOTOS). THE SIENNA IS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. FORTUNATELY, THERE WERE NO INJURIES. I HAVE BEEN MADE AWARE OF MULTIPLE INCIDENTS OF ENGINE FIRES IN TOYOTA SIENNAS IN THIS & OTHER CLOSELY RELATED MODEL YEARS (2014-2017). SEE: NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11010601. I CAN ALSO SUPPLY YOU WITH SOME ADDITIONAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS OF OTHER TOYOTA SIENNA ENGINE FIRE REPORTS. OUR SIENNA WAS ROUTINELY MAINTAINED AS PER MANUFACTURER'S RECOMMENDATIONS & WAS LAST SERVICED ON 9/13/2019 (SEE ATTACHED SERVICE RECEIPT). THE VEHICLE HAD APPROX. 35K MILES ON IT & EXHIBITED NO PRIOR SIGNS OF TROUBLE, CHANGE IN PERFORMANCE OR WARNING INDICATOR LIGHTS. WE DID HAVE AN UNRESOLVED PROBLEM WITH AUTOMATIC SIDE DOORS NOT OPERATING PROPERLY AFTER A RECALL REPAIR; HOWEVER, THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER SERVICE DEPT. COULD NOT IDENTIFY A PROBLEM AFTER MULTIPLE SERVICE COMPLAINTS.

NHTSA complaint #11288762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 35,000 miles Carmel, CA Fire

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

OUR 2016 TOYOTA SIENNA SPONTANEOUSLY CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED IN OUR DRIVEWAY AFTER RETURNING FROM A SHORT DRIVE. AFTER PULLING INTO OUR DRIVEWAY AND SHUTTING OFF THE IGNITION, MY WIFE SMELLED SMOKE AS SHE WAS EXITING THE PARKED VEHICLE. THIS SMOKE INTENSIFIED AND QUICKLY ACCELERATED BECOMING AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE. SHE CALLED FOR ME & THEN CALLED 911; BUT IN THE BRIEF MOMENTS IT TOOK ME TO GRAB A FIRE EXTINGUISHER, THE FIRE FURTHER INTENSIFIED WITH SIZABLE FLAMES ERUPTING OUT FROM AROUND THE HOOD, FRONT GRILL & UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. I USED UP 2 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS WITHOUT ANY SIGNIFICANT EFFECT. I DID NOT HAVE ANY PROTECTIVE SAFETY GEAR SO AFTER HEARING SEVERAL SMALL EXPLOSIONS COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD & FEARING MORE EXPOSURE TO NOXIOUS FUMES, I DECIDED TO ABANDON MY ATTEMPTS TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE FIRE DEPT. ARRIVED WITHIN A FEW MINUTES AND WERE ABLE TO PUT THE FIRE OUT; HOWEVER, THE FIRE PROGRESSED THROUGH THE INITIAL ATTACK AND ENTERED THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CAUSING SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE ENTIRE VEHICLE (SEE ATTACHED PHOTOS). THE SIENNA IS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. FORTUNATELY, THERE WERE NO INJURIES. I HAVE BEEN MADE AWARE OF MULTIPLE INCIDENTS OF ENGINE FIRES IN TOYOTA SIENNAS IN THIS & OTHER CLOSELY RELATED MODEL YEARS (2014-2017). SEE: NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11010601. I CAN ALSO SUPPLY YOU WITH SOME ADDITIONAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS OF OTHER TOYOTA SIENNA ENGINE FIRE REPORTS. OUR SIENNA WAS ROUTINELY MAINTAINED AS PER MANUFACTURER'S RECOMMENDATIONS & WAS LAST SERVICED ON 9/13/2019 (SEE ATTACHED SERVICE RECEIPT). THE VEHICLE HAD APPROX. 35K MILES ON IT & EXHIBITED NO PRIOR SIGNS OF TROUBLE, CHANGE IN PERFORMANCE OR WARNING INDICATOR LIGHTS. WE DID HAVE AN UNRESOLVED PROBLEM WITH AUTOMATIC SIDE DOORS NOT OPERATING PROPERLY AFTER A RECALL REPAIR; HOWEVER, THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER SERVICE DEPT. COULD NOT IDENTIFY A PROBLEM AFTER MULTIPLE SERVICE COMPLAINTS.

NHTSA complaint #11288762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

The most recent complaints

In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.

Edinburgh, IN

STRUCTURE:BODY

Our van has recently been having issues with the sliding doors. It has occurred while driving and the warning light as well as the warning for a door open, and the door lights have came on. Right before this occurs you can hear a click sound from the sliding door behind the driver's side as well as when you close the door, you can hear a strange sound when it closes, unlike the passenger side sliding door.

NHTSA complaint #11679778 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Ponce Inlet, FL

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS

The contact owns a 2016 Toyota Sienna. The contact stated that the driver’s side electric sliding door failed to properly open and close, and occasionally abruptly closed, causing a safety hazard to the occupants entering and exiting the vehicle. The cause of the failure has not yet been determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V858000 (STRUCTURE). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA complaint #11656702 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Ponce Inlet, FL

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

The contact owns a 2016 Toyota Sienna. The contact stated that the driver’s side electric sliding door failed to properly open and close, and occasionally abruptly closed, causing a safety hazard to the occupants entering and exiting the vehicle. The cause of the failure has not yet been determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V858000 (STRUCTURE). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA complaint #11656702 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

los Altos, CA

WHEELS

Excessive outer wear on front tires

NHTSA complaint #11653088 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 70,000 miles West Haven, CT

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

The contact owns a 2016 Toyota Sienna. The contact stated the driver-side sliding door latch failed to latch as intended. The contact stated that after several attempts, the sliding door failed to close completely. The contact stated that no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was not diagnosed. However, an unknown part was repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The contact removed the button under the sliding door to manually close the door. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign number: 16V858000 (STRUCTURE); however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

NHTSA complaint #11640664 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Fernandina, FL

POWER TRAIN

After 80,000 miles have a loud whirling sound coming from rear, after inspection and online investigation found many many others with same issue, the dust cover and or o-ring doesn’t properly protect the rear bearing in the coupler. So while the fix is to remove the rear differential coupler, and replace the bearing with an improved version, seems Toyota has stopped supporting this, and no longer offers the improved bearing as a replacement part, but only supports replacing the entire rear differential coupling at $2000 for the part plus labor. While many have replaced the bearing without issues despite toyota not allowing it as a fix. So first it should be a recall as this is an obvious defect effecting thousands, but then to gouge owners for thousands when the fix doesn’t require a complete replacement of the rear differential coupling assembly.

NHTSA complaint #11571331 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Minot, ND Crash

AIR BAGS

A deer was struck on the driver to middle of the front of the van while traveling 75 mph on the highway. Caused significant enough damage that van was inoperable. What was concerning was the airbags did not deploy despite the significant force and high speed associated with this accident.

NHTSA complaint #11527575 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Washington, DC

SEAT BELTS

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The engine/transmission and the vehicle is available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? While driving the vehicle at the rate of 55-60 mph, the vehicle came to a complete/instant stop without warning — potential causing harm or even death to the occupants of the associated vehicle, and it adversely affected my ability to safely control the vehicle. Also, as the incident was occurring, my drivers seatbelt became very, very tight. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No, but this is the second occurrence of this same incident within the past 30 days.

NHTSA complaint #11509231 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Washington, DC

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The engine/transmission and the vehicle is available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? While driving the vehicle at the rate of 55-60 mph, the vehicle came to a complete/instant stop without warning — potential causing harm or even death to the occupants of the associated vehicle, and it adversely affected my ability to safely control the vehicle. Also, as the incident was occurring, my drivers seatbelt became very, very tight. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No, but this is the second occurrence of this same incident within the past 30 days.

NHTSA complaint #11509231 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Washington, DC

ENGINE

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The engine/transmission and the vehicle is available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? While driving the vehicle at the rate of 55-60 mph, the vehicle came to a complete/instant stop without warning — potential causing harm or even death to the occupants of the associated vehicle, and it adversely affected my ability to safely control the vehicle. Also, as the incident was occurring, my drivers seatbelt became very, very tight. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No, but this is the second occurrence of this same incident within the past 30 days.

NHTSA complaint #11509231 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Sacramento, CA 1 injured

STRUCTURE:BODY

The rear sliding power door on the passenger side closed on my six year old child. He was trapped in the door and could not move until I opened the door. He has pain and visible injuries on his back from the door. This happened on 2.10.23. There have not been any incidents with the van leading up to this incident. This happened when the van was parked in the garage and the engine was off. We have not tried to replicate the incident because it caused an injury. The vehicle is available for inspection.

NHTSA complaint #11506720 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

N Baldwin, NY

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

AIR CONDITIONER WORKS WHEN IT WANTS TO. NOT SURE WHAT SEEMS TO BE THE ISSUE.

NHTSA complaint #11485031 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Bolton, MA

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I was driving my 2016 Sienna 30 mph, when suddenly, the rear driver's side window exploded. The police came and inspected the incident, the surroundings and the vehicle, and determined that there was no object or strike to cause the explosion. There were no warnings or lamps. There was no pressure change such as a window or door opening to cause the explosion. Should the glass have imploded, we would be having a very different conversation, as my two children were in the vehicle with me. The safety of my two children was at risk due to the glass exploding. We called our local Toyota dealer, and they claim to have no information on dealer notifications, recalls, or even heard of such a thing, perhaps to avoid having to pay for the repair. I have attached a photo of the damaged window.

NHTSA complaint #11439744 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 22,000 miles Boynton, FL Crash

STEERING

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2016 TOYOTA SIENNA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL STIFFENED, WHICH RESULTED IN HER CRASHING THE VEHICLE INTO THE HIGHWAY SIDE BARRIER AND A FENCE STOPPED THE VEHICLE FROM GOING INTO THE WATER. THE CONTACT DID NOT SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND DEEMED TOTALED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE AND PERFORMED AN INVESTIGATION. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT FROM THE INSPECTION, THE EDR RECORDED VARIOUS STEERING INPUT PRIOR TO THE IMPACT, HOWEVER, THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE FOUND OF A STEERING DEFECT THAT CAUSED THE FAILURE, AND NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,000.

NHTSA complaint #11403888 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

APO, AP

STRUCTURE:BODY

CURRENTLY OVERSEAS IN THE ARMY AND NO TOYOTA STORE WILL FIX IT AND THE ARMY WILL NOT LET ME SHIP MY VEHICLE BACK TO THE STATES. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

NHTSA complaint #11396132 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 37,000 miles Arvada, CO

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

THERE IS SOMETHING MECHANICALLY WRONG WITH THE DESIGN OF THE SUSPENSION THAT IS CAUSING TIRES TO WEAR COMPLETELY IN 15K-20K MILES. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE, AND NOTHING IS BEING DONE ABOUT IT. HTTPS://WWW.CARGURUS.COM/CARS/DISCUSSION-T34192_DS548164

NHTSA complaint #11351994 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 37,000 miles Arvada, CO

SUSPENSION

THERE IS SOMETHING MECHANICALLY WRONG WITH THE DESIGN OF THE SUSPENSION THAT IS CAUSING TIRES TO WEAR COMPLETELY IN 15K-20K MILES. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE, AND NOTHING IS BEING DONE ABOUT IT. HTTPS://WWW.CARGURUS.COM/CARS/DISCUSSION-T34192_DS548164

NHTSA complaint #11351994 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 20,000 miles Cerritos, CA

WHEELS

EXCESSIVE TIRE WEAR ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE FRONT WHEELS AFTER 20,000 MILES. MINIVAN IS DRIVEN IN NORMAL CITY AND HIGHWAY DRIVING. TIRES ARE ROTATED EVERY 5,000 MILES. ALL 4 TIRES WILL NEED TO BE REPLACED AFTER 20,000 MILES.

NHTSA complaint #11344026 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 36,512 miles Truckee, CA

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 TOYOTA SIENNA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STOPPED WITH THE ENGINE STILL RUNNING, THE PASSENGER'S SIDE SLIDING DOOR SLID OPEN INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AUBURN TOYOTA (800 NEVADA ST, AUBURN, CA 95603) AND REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V858000 (STRUCTURE). APPROXIMATELY TWO YEARS LATER, THE FAILURE HAD RECURRED WHILE THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE SAME DEALER ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS WHERE THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALSO NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 36,512.

NHTSA complaint #11339817 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 36,512 miles Truckee, CA

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 TOYOTA SIENNA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STOPPED WITH THE ENGINE STILL RUNNING, THE PASSENGER'S SIDE SLIDING DOOR SLID OPEN INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AUBURN TOYOTA (800 NEVADA ST, AUBURN, CA 95603) AND REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V858000 (STRUCTURE). APPROXIMATELY TWO YEARS LATER, THE FAILURE HAD RECURRED WHILE THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE SAME DEALER ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS WHERE THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALSO NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 36,512.

NHTSA complaint #11339817 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 50,650 miles Peoria, AZ

SEAT BELTS

WHILE BUCKLING UP ON 6 DEC 2019, THE SEAT ATTACHMENT TO THE B-PILLAR COMPLETELY, WITHOUT RESISTANCE, DETACHED. THE BOLT THAT SECURED THE BELT WAS ON THE FLOOR, COMPLETELY PRISTINE IN APPEARANCE, UNDAMAGED, WITHOUT ANY EVIDENCE OF THREAD-LOCKER APPLICATION AT THE FACTORY. THE CAR HAD BEEN IN NO ACCIDENTS AND WAS IN EXCELLENT SHAPE, WITHOUT A TRACE OF BODY RUST OR DETERIORATION. DEALER REPLACED THE BOLT AND CHECKED THE OTHER BELT ANCHORING BOLTS AND SAID THEY WERE OKL. HAD TO RETURN TO THE DEALER IN TWO DAYS SINCE THEIR REPAIR HAD LEFT THE SEAT BELT TWISTED. THEY UNBOLTED, THEN RE-BOLTED THE BELT ANCHOR IN THE UN-TWISTED, CORRECT POSITION. NO HARM OCCURRED SINCE I PUT ON MY BELT BEFORE STARTING THE CAR; REALIZING THE DEFECT IMMEDIATELY, I GOT TO WORK BY OTHER MEANS THAT DAY. THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY, IN MY GARAGE AT THE TIME OF THE DEFECT DISCOVERY.

NHTSA complaint #11312097 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 20,904 miles Hilo, HI

STEERING

THE STEERING SEIZED UP ON MY 2016 TOYOTA VAN WHILE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT. I HAD TO GET THE VEHICLE TOWED. THERE ARE ONLY 20904 MILES ON THE ODOMETER. TOYOTA SAYS MY WARRANTY IS EXPIRED. TOYOTA SAYS I WILL NEED A NEW STEERING ASSEMBLY, WHICH I WILL HAVE TO PAY IS FOR $3200.

NHTSA complaint #11291343 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 35,000 miles Carmel, CA Fire

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

OUR 2016 TOYOTA SIENNA SPONTANEOUSLY CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED IN OUR DRIVEWAY AFTER RETURNING FROM A SHORT DRIVE. AFTER PULLING INTO OUR DRIVEWAY AND SHUTTING OFF THE IGNITION, MY WIFE SMELLED SMOKE AS SHE WAS EXITING THE PARKED VEHICLE. THIS SMOKE INTENSIFIED AND QUICKLY ACCELERATED BECOMING AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE. SHE CALLED FOR ME & THEN CALLED 911; BUT IN THE BRIEF MOMENTS IT TOOK ME TO GRAB A FIRE EXTINGUISHER, THE FIRE FURTHER INTENSIFIED WITH SIZABLE FLAMES ERUPTING OUT FROM AROUND THE HOOD, FRONT GRILL & UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. I USED UP 2 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS WITHOUT ANY SIGNIFICANT EFFECT. I DID NOT HAVE ANY PROTECTIVE SAFETY GEAR SO AFTER HEARING SEVERAL SMALL EXPLOSIONS COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD & FEARING MORE EXPOSURE TO NOXIOUS FUMES, I DECIDED TO ABANDON MY ATTEMPTS TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE FIRE DEPT. ARRIVED WITHIN A FEW MINUTES AND WERE ABLE TO PUT THE FIRE OUT; HOWEVER, THE FIRE PROGRESSED THROUGH THE INITIAL ATTACK AND ENTERED THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CAUSING SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE ENTIRE VEHICLE (SEE ATTACHED PHOTOS). THE SIENNA IS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. FORTUNATELY, THERE WERE NO INJURIES. I HAVE BEEN MADE AWARE OF MULTIPLE INCIDENTS OF ENGINE FIRES IN TOYOTA SIENNAS IN THIS & OTHER CLOSELY RELATED MODEL YEARS (2014-2017). SEE: NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11010601. I CAN ALSO SUPPLY YOU WITH SOME ADDITIONAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS OF OTHER TOYOTA SIENNA ENGINE FIRE REPORTS. OUR SIENNA WAS ROUTINELY MAINTAINED AS PER MANUFACTURER'S RECOMMENDATIONS & WAS LAST SERVICED ON 9/13/2019 (SEE ATTACHED SERVICE RECEIPT). THE VEHICLE HAD APPROX. 35K MILES ON IT & EXHIBITED NO PRIOR SIGNS OF TROUBLE, CHANGE IN PERFORMANCE OR WARNING INDICATOR LIGHTS. WE DID HAVE AN UNRESOLVED PROBLEM WITH AUTOMATIC SIDE DOORS NOT OPERATING PROPERLY AFTER A RECALL REPAIR; HOWEVER, THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER SERVICE DEPT. COULD NOT IDENTIFY A PROBLEM AFTER MULTIPLE SERVICE COMPLAINTS.

NHTSA complaint #11288762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 35,000 miles Carmel, CA Fire

ENGINE

OUR 2016 TOYOTA SIENNA SPONTANEOUSLY CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED IN OUR DRIVEWAY AFTER RETURNING FROM A SHORT DRIVE. AFTER PULLING INTO OUR DRIVEWAY AND SHUTTING OFF THE IGNITION, MY WIFE SMELLED SMOKE AS SHE WAS EXITING THE PARKED VEHICLE. THIS SMOKE INTENSIFIED AND QUICKLY ACCELERATED BECOMING AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE. SHE CALLED FOR ME & THEN CALLED 911; BUT IN THE BRIEF MOMENTS IT TOOK ME TO GRAB A FIRE EXTINGUISHER, THE FIRE FURTHER INTENSIFIED WITH SIZABLE FLAMES ERUPTING OUT FROM AROUND THE HOOD, FRONT GRILL & UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. I USED UP 2 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS WITHOUT ANY SIGNIFICANT EFFECT. I DID NOT HAVE ANY PROTECTIVE SAFETY GEAR SO AFTER HEARING SEVERAL SMALL EXPLOSIONS COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD & FEARING MORE EXPOSURE TO NOXIOUS FUMES, I DECIDED TO ABANDON MY ATTEMPTS TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE FIRE DEPT. ARRIVED WITHIN A FEW MINUTES AND WERE ABLE TO PUT THE FIRE OUT; HOWEVER, THE FIRE PROGRESSED THROUGH THE INITIAL ATTACK AND ENTERED THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CAUSING SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE ENTIRE VEHICLE (SEE ATTACHED PHOTOS). THE SIENNA IS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. FORTUNATELY, THERE WERE NO INJURIES. I HAVE BEEN MADE AWARE OF MULTIPLE INCIDENTS OF ENGINE FIRES IN TOYOTA SIENNAS IN THIS & OTHER CLOSELY RELATED MODEL YEARS (2014-2017). SEE: NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11010601. I CAN ALSO SUPPLY YOU WITH SOME ADDITIONAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS OF OTHER TOYOTA SIENNA ENGINE FIRE REPORTS. OUR SIENNA WAS ROUTINELY MAINTAINED AS PER MANUFACTURER'S RECOMMENDATIONS & WAS LAST SERVICED ON 9/13/2019 (SEE ATTACHED SERVICE RECEIPT). THE VEHICLE HAD APPROX. 35K MILES ON IT & EXHIBITED NO PRIOR SIGNS OF TROUBLE, CHANGE IN PERFORMANCE OR WARNING INDICATOR LIGHTS. WE DID HAVE AN UNRESOLVED PROBLEM WITH AUTOMATIC SIDE DOORS NOT OPERATING PROPERLY AFTER A RECALL REPAIR; HOWEVER, THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER SERVICE DEPT. COULD NOT IDENTIFY A PROBLEM AFTER MULTIPLE SERVICE COMPLAINTS.

NHTSA complaint #11288762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 35,000 miles Carmel, CA Fire

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

OUR 2016 TOYOTA SIENNA SPONTANEOUSLY CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED IN OUR DRIVEWAY AFTER RETURNING FROM A SHORT DRIVE. AFTER PULLING INTO OUR DRIVEWAY AND SHUTTING OFF THE IGNITION, MY WIFE SMELLED SMOKE AS SHE WAS EXITING THE PARKED VEHICLE. THIS SMOKE INTENSIFIED AND QUICKLY ACCELERATED BECOMING AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE. SHE CALLED FOR ME & THEN CALLED 911; BUT IN THE BRIEF MOMENTS IT TOOK ME TO GRAB A FIRE EXTINGUISHER, THE FIRE FURTHER INTENSIFIED WITH SIZABLE FLAMES ERUPTING OUT FROM AROUND THE HOOD, FRONT GRILL & UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. I USED UP 2 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS WITHOUT ANY SIGNIFICANT EFFECT. I DID NOT HAVE ANY PROTECTIVE SAFETY GEAR SO AFTER HEARING SEVERAL SMALL EXPLOSIONS COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD & FEARING MORE EXPOSURE TO NOXIOUS FUMES, I DECIDED TO ABANDON MY ATTEMPTS TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE FIRE DEPT. ARRIVED WITHIN A FEW MINUTES AND WERE ABLE TO PUT THE FIRE OUT; HOWEVER, THE FIRE PROGRESSED THROUGH THE INITIAL ATTACK AND ENTERED THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CAUSING SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE ENTIRE VEHICLE (SEE ATTACHED PHOTOS). THE SIENNA IS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. FORTUNATELY, THERE WERE NO INJURIES. I HAVE BEEN MADE AWARE OF MULTIPLE INCIDENTS OF ENGINE FIRES IN TOYOTA SIENNAS IN THIS & OTHER CLOSELY RELATED MODEL YEARS (2014-2017). SEE: NHTSA ID NUMBER: 11010601. I CAN ALSO SUPPLY YOU WITH SOME ADDITIONAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS OF OTHER TOYOTA SIENNA ENGINE FIRE REPORTS. OUR SIENNA WAS ROUTINELY MAINTAINED AS PER MANUFACTURER'S RECOMMENDATIONS & WAS LAST SERVICED ON 9/13/2019 (SEE ATTACHED SERVICE RECEIPT). THE VEHICLE HAD APPROX. 35K MILES ON IT & EXHIBITED NO PRIOR SIGNS OF TROUBLE, CHANGE IN PERFORMANCE OR WARNING INDICATOR LIGHTS. WE DID HAVE AN UNRESOLVED PROBLEM WITH AUTOMATIC SIDE DOORS NOT OPERATING PROPERLY AFTER A RECALL REPAIR; HOWEVER, THE LOCAL TOYOTA DEALER SERVICE DEPT. COULD NOT IDENTIFY A PROBLEM AFTER MULTIPLE SERVICE COMPLAINTS.

NHTSA complaint #11288762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.