The Toyota Sienna is a handsome minivan that made its debut for the 1998 model year.
Its come a long way since then and modern versions are solely hybrid, with front and all-wheel drive variants.
In this article we’ll separate the best Sienna years from the worst...
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Toyota Sienna Are:
The best Toyota Sienna model years are 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2003, 2002, and 2001. The worst model years of the Sienna are 2015, 2012, 2011, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2000, and 1998. This is based on reviews, NHTSA stats, problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Toyota Sienna?
2022 and 2023 Toyota Sienna
The 2022 and 2023 Toyota Sienna model years are the latest editions to the hybrid-only 4th generation, boasting excellent efficiency and class-leading resale value.
These models and the 2021 model are essentially the same apart from a few changes to the lineup.
For 2022 an adventure-inspired Woodland Edition made its debut – it comes standard with AWD, better ground clearance, a roof rack, a tow hitch, and a 1500-watt power outlet.
For 2023, a 25th Anniversary Special Edition trim was launched sporting new 20-inch wheels, roof rails, black exterior badging, and exterior mirrors with built-in puddle lights (illuminate the ground near the car door).
The interior is kitted out in black leather upholstery, a JBL sound system, and a wireless charging pad for your smartphone.
2022 Sienna:
- Edmunds: 3.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.8 / 5.0
- JD Power: 78 / 100
2022 Sienna, Edmunds review:
“My kids love the wide interior of the 3rd row and the foot motion to open the sliding doors. Baby car seat fits perfect on the second-row middle seat with adults seating facing the doors much more comfortably than my previous 2012 Honda Odyssey. There are some minor dislikes, the buttons for the climate control are a bit small and takes a good effort to regulate while driving”
2023 Sienna:
- Edmunds: 3.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.8 / 5.0
- JD Power: 78 / 100
2023 Sienna, Edmunds review:
“When you make a van this quiet, even the slightest engine noise will sound “loud” by comparison. Other reviews talk about the engine being loud but I definitely think it isn’t – and I’ve literally owned every van on the market at one point or another. Toyota cornered the market on this one. I just don’t see any other vans competing with the build quality, looks, features, and mpg of this van.”
2021 Toyota Sienna
The 2021 Toyota Sienna was Kelley Blue Books’ Top-Rated minivan, best ‘Resale Value Award’ winner and claimed the segment’s Best Buy Award, their highest honor.
If you’re looking for a solid minivan, you can’t go wrong with a 2021 Sienna – arguably the best people-mover on the market.
For 2021 the Sienna was completely redesigned throughout and it marked the start of the hybrid-only 4th Generation era, dropping the V6 engine as the standard powertrain.
On the inside, the van offers significantly improved tech and better passenger and cargo space.
On the outside, the Sienna looks bolder than ever before.
- Edmunds: 3.6 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.8 / 5.0
- JD Power: 79 / 100
2021 Sienna, Edmunds review:
“The ride is very smooth and quiet. I have an XLE and it is full of all the bells and whistles that I’m used to in my T&C. The only thing that’s missing is my DVD player. The technology in this vehicle is amazing and I learn something new every day. So far I’ve had the van for a week and a half and I’m getting 35 mpg, which is much better than I expected.”
2020 Toyota Sienna
Not much changed for the 2020 Sienna in comparison to the 2019 model year, it lacks the design overhaul of the newer models but is still practical, reliable and roomy.
The only noteworthy change was the addition of the Nightshade cosmetic package which brings black finishes, accents and exterior bits – available for all SE trims.
This model comes with a V-6 paired with an eight-speed automatic, like many of its predecessors.
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 77 / 100
2020 Sienna, Edmunds review:
“Sienna may not have as many features as some of the competition. However, for longevity and durability Honda or Chrysler don’t even come close. The powertrain is far superior to any competitors and with regular maintenance a 200 or 300k life is attainable without major repairs. Having owned the Honda Odyssey and replacing two transmissions in 30k miles, never again. Sienna offers the most volume for a mini-van and a reasonable almost Lexus sedan ride. While I wouldn’t rate it as high at the Lexus LS 460 that I own, it comes at a fraction of the price.”
2019 Toyota Sienna
The 2019 Sienna is another solid choice – big on safety features, durable and spacious.
For 2019 the Sienna received optional AWD for the SE trim, which also comes with new six-spoke wheels and available power sunroof.
The LE trim was offered with an LE Preferred package, which adds a host of features, including blindspot monitoring, proximity keyfob with push-button start functionality, remote-illuminated entry, and rear cross-traffic alert system.
The SE Preferred package, on the other hand, now includes rear parking sensors and an upgraded Entune 3.0 infotainment system with premium JBL stereo and navigation.
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 78 / 100
2019 Sienna, Edmunds review:
“We have had 3 other Siennas before this but we aren’t your typical family. We stage houses and need lots of space, some acceptable “presence” when we pull up to an appointment, dependability and luxury- because doing 26,000+ miles a year requires some treats to keep the road time happy…”
2018 Toyota Sienna
The 2018 Sienna received significant powertrain improvements, it also received the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS-P) suite of driver assists as standard equipment.
The Safety Sense P includes forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams.
2018 also saw upgraded Entune infotainment software, extra USB ports for rear passengers, and slightly updated front-end styling.
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 78 / 100
2018 Sienna, Edmunds review:
“Writing this review 3 months and 3500 miles into owning a 2018 Sienna XLE. I am very impressed with the safety features. In fact the automatic assist braking helped save me from an accident when the vehicle in front of me came to a sudden stop on the highway because they missed their exit! The radar proximity alarm sounded and brakes were applied before I realized that the car in front of me was coming to a complete stop, without any cars in front of it…”
2017 Toyota Sienna
The 2017 Sienna is comfortable, spacious and quick to accelerate thanks to an upgraded powertrain.
While this model has the same engine displacement as its predecessor, the vehicle is now rated at 196 horsepower (30 more than the previous model year) and 263 lb-ft of torque (18 more than the previous model year).
It also came with an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission system which replaced the prior six-speed transmission.
- Edmunds: 3.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 79 / 100
2017 Sienna, Edmunds review:
“2017 Sienna, XLE 5,255 miles. I noticed a light whining sound during drive/acceleration about a day or two before the first breakdown. The whining sound comes on and you can hear it faintly with the foot on the gas. You don’t need to engage the acceleration, just keep your foot on the pedal lightly and you’ll hear the whine, once you let go, the whining goes away…”
2016 Toyota Sienna
The 2016 Sienna comes with intuitive operation, excellent reliability and a traditionally handsome design.
After being refreshed the previous year there weren’t many changes although it was fitted with an upgraded multimedia system.
Some variants were also equipped with the Scout GPS Link application, which displays smartphone navigation information on the central display.
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 79 / 100
2016 Sienna, Edmunds review:
“I’d owned an Odyssey (with the repeated brake issues) and a Pilot, but after doing a significant amount of research, decided to go with the 2016 Sienna. Nothing beats a minivan for hauling kids, dogs and everybody’s associated stuff (kids and crap). Drives well, great visibility (except for large pillars), decent acceleration, seats are comfortable…”
2003 Toyota Sienna
If you’re looking for a slightly older model then the 2003 Sienna is a strong choice.
This model received stellar feedback ratings from customers and was truly bulletproof in terms of reliability.
It may not be the most exciting option but it boasts excellent crash-test scores, a refined powertrain and an optional stability control system.
- Edmunds: 4.7 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2003 Sienna, Edmunds review:
“Ive owned several minivans in my time, a mercury villager, an Oldsmobile Silhouette and a Chrysler Town and Country. I will say there previous vans listed were all more stylish but the Sienna is hands down the winner when it comes to reliability. I bought the car used and for being 15 years old it runs excellent, for its both quiet and durable…”
2001 and 2002 Toyota Sienna
While the 2001 and 2002 Sienna model years may not be on everyone’s list due to their age, there’s no denying they were both excellent vehicles in their prime and incredibly durable.
These model years came with an onboard entertainment system, dual power-sliding doors, side airbags, a stability control system, a powerful and smooth V6 engine, a rear defroster, JBL audio system, heated front seats, and a variety of body colors.
2002 Sienna:
- Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2002 Sienna, Edmunds review:
“Fourteen years of ownership, 173,000 miles and never had a breakdown or an unscheduled maintenance stop. The reason for this reliability was that I always maintained the Toyota Recommended Maintenance schedule at a Toyota dealer’s shop. If your buying this kind of car or any other brand, validated maintenance history should be your number one consideration. Besides this, Toyota builds a great reliable product.”
2001 Sienna:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2001 Sienna, Edmunds review:
“Drove it to 240,000 miles with no problems. Great quality reliable ride. But about as boring as can be and had a smaller interior then most other mini vans. Overall positive thoughts about the 01 Sienna.”
Consumer Scores For Best Toyota Sienna Years
Below is a table that presents all the consumer ratings of the best Sienna model years from reputable vehicle websites:
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2023 Toyota Sienna | 3.6 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 78 / 100 |
| 2022 Toyota Sienna | 3.6 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 78 / 100 |
| 2021 Toyota Sienna | 3.6 / 5.0 | 3.8 / 5.0 | 79 / 100 |
| 2020 Toyota Sienna | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 77 / 100 |
| 2019 Toyota Sienna | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 78 / 100 |
| 2018 Toyota Sienna | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 78 / 100 |
| 2017 Toyota Sienna | 3.8 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 79 / 100 |
| 2016 Toyota Sienna | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 79 / 100 |
| 2003 Toyota Sienna | 4.7 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2002 Toyota Sienna | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2001 Toyota Sienna | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | NA |
Related: How Long Do Toyota Sienna Hybrids Last? (12 Important Facts)
What Are The Worst Years For The Toyota Sienna?
Despite its impressive reputation, there are several Sienna model years that did not perform as well as expected.
2015 Toyota Sienna
The 2015 Toyota Sienna wasn’t a clunker by any stretch of the imagination – however it did see a spike in complaints.
The most common issue for the 2015 Sienna was its power sliding doors opening whilst driving, getting jammed, not closing properly and other malfunctions.
Owners also reported that the sunroof exploded for no apparent reason.
The 2015 Sienna had a total of 35 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 234 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Valve cover gasket leaking oil
- Sliding door failure
- Sunroof exploded
- Electrical short in steering column
2012 Toyota Sienna
Not the worst model Sienna by any means, however the 2012 Sienna received a higher-than-normal amount of complaints.
Firstly it was affected by the widespread Takata airbag recall – these airbags were known to explode and fire shrapnel into the cabin.
Secondly, owners complained of issues with the power sliding doors – here’s what they had to say:
“Drivers side sliding door opened while car was in drive and moving. Passenger had to manually close door. After pushing door closed, it will not open or close manually nor electronically and the cable is frayed and broken free from the front anchor and is hanging from the vehicle.”
“On both sides of the vehicle the rear sliding door latches rusted and broke off resulting in doors not opening and closing properly.”
The 2012 Sienna had a total of 25 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 302 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Premature tire wear
- Excessive oil consumption
- Doors not working properly
2011 Toyota Sienna
Similar to the 2012 model year, the 2011 Sienna was also widely affected by the Takata airbag recall.
Many owners complained about having to wait unreasonable amounts of time for the problem to be addressed.
There were also numerous complaints for various issues with the power sliding doors.
The 2011 Sienna had a total of 65 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 754 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Premature tire wear
- Loose inner tie rods
- Sliding doors malfunctioning
2009 Toyota Sienna
The most frequent issue specified by owners of this model year was the faulty cables that operated the power-sliding door system.
Damage to these cables led to a damaged motor assembly, difficulty in opening and closing the doors, and an eventual trip to the service center for repairs and replacement of parts.
The 2009 Sienna had a total of 31 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 260 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Power sliding door failure
- Power steering leak
- Tire stem valve broke
2007 and 2008 Toyota Sienna
The 2007 and 2008 Toyota Sienna were prone to oil leaks due to the oil cooling hose rupturing.
Here’s how the owners described the issue:
“The oil pump assembly failed. It was partially made with a rubber hose that did not perform as it should. It needed to be replaced with a solid metal part. Although there was a safety/service bulletin listed by Toyota on this part it cost almost $1200 to repair.”
“Oil cooler pressure hose explode while driving with my kids back from the church – oil was leaking all over the street, the car was smoking, drivers were honking and screaming “your car is on fire” and a nasty smoke were coming out of it. If I was not alerted by a good samaritan my kids and I will pay our lives.”
The 2007 and 2008 Sienna’s, also had a high volume of complaints lodged due to the power-sliding door system failing.
The 2008 Sienna had a total of 66 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 544 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
The 2007 Sienna had a total of 80 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 426 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Transmission failure
- Premature tire wear
- Air conditioning stopped blowing cold air
- Loss of power slowing down
- Oil leaks
2006 Toyota Sienna
The 2006 Sienna was notorious for airbag-related concerns – owners reported the airbag light would flash on and off for no apparent reason, this seemed to happen when the vehicle had approximately 150,000 miles on the clock.
For some owners, this repair cost them over $1000.
Like many other Sienna models, the 2006 Sienna had a large number of complaints due to the power sliding doors malfunctioning.
The 2006 Sienna had a total of 134 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,232 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Rack and pinion seal failure
- Air bag light flashing
- Automatic door malfunctioning
2005 Toyota Sienna
The 2005 Sienna was known to have issues with its driver’s side door which would make loud noises when opened or closed.
Here’s one owner’s account:
“Driver’s side door internal metal is pulling away from itself where the door check is. This also causes the metal to cut into the door check. Creating an audible clicking noise but also creating a safety issue. I have been told that there is a chance that the door itself could fall off.”
The 2005 Sienna also experienced the same set of problems that many other model years did – sliding door malfunctions.
The 2005 Sienna had a total of 109 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 1,361 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Power steering shaft leaking
- Dashboard cracking
- Sliding doors do not work properly
2004 Toyota Sienna
Among all model years ever created, the 2004 Sienna takes the cake as the model year with the most number of combined complaints and problems.
The most frequent issue handed in by owners of this model year was, yet again, power-sliding door mechanism problems and issues.
There were also a large number of complaints related to the driver’s side door making loud popping noises with every opening and closing.
The 2004 Sienna had a total of 202 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 2,515 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Cable for automatic sliding doors split and broke
- Sudden unintended acceleration
- Broken weld in door
2000 Toyota Sienna
The 2000 Sienna is part of this list due to its engine problems, owners widely reported sludge build-up in the engine.
Here’s one owners testimony:
“Told by Toyota that sludge in the engine is our fault despite regular oil changes. We don’t have all our recepts but changed the oil at least 4 times since we owned the car. Impossible to believe that we were neglectful, especially when I am seeing so many other cases with the same thing happening. There needs to be an investigation here soon.”
Owners also reported transmission failure around the 100,000-mile mark.
The 2000 Sienna had a total of 31 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 452 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Engine diagnostic light always on
- Transmission failure
- Smoke blowing from the tailpipe
- Power door problems
1998 Toyota Sienna
The 1998 Sienna was problematic because of issues related to its stock wheels. Owners reported tire blowouts, tread separation, and premature sidewall wear and tear.
Engine sludge build-up was widely reported despite owners having regular oil changes.
Owners also reported loud grinding noises and squeaking when braking.
The 1998 Sienna had a total of 9 complaints at CarComplaints.com and 346 problems at CarProblemZoo.com.
Common problems:
- Steering pulls to the side
- Door handles broke off
- Headlights stopped working suddenly
Related: Toyota Sienna Beeping? (11 Common Causes)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
The Sienna is a vehicle that has stood the test of time, but, as seen in the previous section, is not immune to fault and failure.
Listed below are the number of reported complaints and problems for each model year of the Sienna.
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) |
| 2023 Toyota Sienna | NA | NA |
| 2022 Toyota Sienna | NA | 41 |
| 2021 Toyota Sienna | 1 | 65 |
| 2020 Toyota Sienna | 5 | 26 |
| 2019 Toyota Sienna | 4 | 39 |
| 2018 Toyota Sienna | 5 | 59 |
| 2017 Toyota Sienna | 11 | 130 |
| 2016 Toyota Sienna | 1 | 85 |
| 2015 Toyota Sienna | 35 | 234 |
| 2014 Toyota Sienna | 24 | 185 |
| 2013 Toyota Sienna | 33 | 196 |
| 2012 Toyota Sienna | 25 | 302 |
| 2011 Toyota Sienna | 65 | 754 |
| 2010 Toyota Sienna | 18 | 212 |
| 2009 Toyota Sienna | 31 | 260 |
| 2008 Toyota Sienna | 66 | 544 |
| 2007 Toyota Sienna | 80 | 426 |
| 2006 Toyota Sienna | 134 | 1,232 |
| 2005 Toyota Sienna | 109 | 1,361 |
| 2004 Toyota Sienna | 202 | 2,515 |
| 2003 Toyota Sienna | 5 | 120 |
| 2002 Toyota Sienna | 24 | 214 |
| 2001 Toyota Sienna | 23 | 233 |
| 2000 Toyota Sienna | 31 | 452 |
| 1999 Toyota Sienna | 25 | 248 |
| 1998 Toyota Sienna | 9 | 346 |
| 1997 Toyota Sienna | NA | 2 |
| 1996 Toyota Sienna | NA | 3 |
What Problems Do Toyota Sienna Have?
- Loss of power after slowing down
- Rack and pinion seal failure
- Engine diagnostic light always on
- Cable for automatic sliding doors split and broke
- Sudden unintended acceleration
- Broken weld in door
- Power steering shaft leaking
- Dashboard cracking
- Sliding doors do not work properly
- Airbag light flashing
- Transmission makes noise and slips
- Premature tire wear
- Air conditioning stopped blowing cold air
- Loose inner tie rods
Related: 11 Most Common Toyota Sienna Problems (Explained)
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Toyota Sienna?
Despite its flaws in certain model years, the Sienna has been received positively by several owners and is seen as a reliable minivan that is affordable and offers practical features.
The Sienna secured a good score of 8.0 out of 10, with a fuel economy rating of 36 miles per gallon for both city driving and highway driving.
Take a look at how it fares against direct competitors in the current market in terms of fuel economy, pricing, and overall score.
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Honda Odyssey | 8.9 | $37,340 – $49,470 | City: 19 /Highway: 28 |
| Kia Carnival | 8.6 | $32,900 – $46,000 | City: 19 /Highway: 26 |
| Chrysler Pacifica | 8.5 | $37,095 – $56,840 | City: 17 – 19 /Highway: 25 – 28 |
| Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid | 8.4 | $47,500 – $56,050 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
| Toyota Sienna | 8.0 | $35,385 – $51,605 | City: 36 / Highway: 36 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 15 Best & Worst Kia Sedona Years (With Facts & Stats)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/toyota/sienna
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/toyota/sienna
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Toyota/Sienna/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/toyota/sienna/
https://www.edmunds.com/toyota/sienna/
https://www.kbb.com/toyota/sienna/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2022/toyota/sienna
