BodyMedium
Power sliding door cable / motor failure.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Cycle both power doors several times and listen for grinding.
2011–2020 Toyota Sienna · common problems & known faults
The 3rd-gen Sienna is a dependable V6 minivan; power sliding doors and a rubber oil-supply hose are the items to verify.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2011–2020 Toyota Sienna are Rubber oil-supply hose (VVT) leak on early cars (recall), Power sliding door cable / motor failure and Brake actuator / ABS sensor faults triggering warning lights. 1 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Toyota Sienna.
7.6/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 1
- Medium
- 2
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Toyota Sienna problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
EngineHigh
Rubber oil-supply hose (VVT) leak on early cars (recall).
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Confirm the oil-hose recall was completed.
InteriorLow
Dashboard glare / softening in hot climates.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Check the dash top for tackiness.
BrakesMedium
Brake actuator / ABS sensor faults triggering warning lights.
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Scan for ABS/VSC codes on the test drive.
Inspecting a Toyota Sienna?
Generate a full, tickable pre-purchase checklist tailored to this exact vehicle · add photos and notes as you inspect. Try it free.
Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Is the Sienna reliable?
Yes — the 3.5L V6 is strong. Power-door hardware is the most common nuisance repair.
What breaks on a Sienna?
Power sliding doors and, on early cars, the VVT oil-supply hose.
Is AWD Sienna worth it?
AWD adds capability but also runflat tyres and slightly more maintenance; inspect tyres closely.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.