1999 TOYOTA Sienna

8 Years with Sienna

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4 Safety Rating: 4 Technology Rating: 3 Value Rating:

I have owned my '99 for 8 years. The brakes seem to last a long time, but I am on my 4th alternator. Two exterior door handles broke off. What I don't like is not being able to turn off the headlights, I need more leg room, and I don't like the radio tuning. But at 203,000 miles it has been overall reliable. It has outlasted my Ford and Chevy vans by 65,000 miles already. And I replaced the AC system twice. Maybe a screen in the grill would protect it from stones which cause leaks.

The Camry of Minivans

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: Technology Rating: Value Rating: 5

I have a 1999 Toyota Sienna CE with 3.0L V6 with 80,000 miles, sliding doors on both sides, grey cloth interior, light green paint on exterior. This is a fantastic car. When friends ride in it they immediately comment on how smooth the ride is. The engine is the same V6 they put in the Camry and acceleration is great. Functionality of the van is awesome. When you want to load groceries or other items in tight parking spaces the sliding side doors and huge lift back make everything so easy. I think having sliding doors on both sides was an option so not all Sienna's have that but one will still work out great in those tight parking spaces. I bought the car used from an older couple who had the 3rd row seating removed and a hydraulic lift installed for a motorized wheel chair. I had the lift removed and sold it, and I most likely won't hunt down some replacement 3rd row seats. I own rental properties and the Sienna is perfect for hauling all the stuff I need for work and keeping tools safe in parking lots. I don't like showing up at my rental properties in fancy new cars and the Sienna is perfect for maintaining the look I want in front of people who pay me rent. There is a lot of room in these vans to go camping, or haul stuff and people comfortably. I recently took my Sienna on a huge road-trip with a girlfriend to follow the Seattle Seahawks on some road games and the vehicle performed flawlessly. I set it up to sleep in the back of the van if I wanted, and when I did it was roomy. I don't have much to complain about but if I did it would be the power window control on both the driver and front passenger side short out every now and then and I have to pry them up and fidgit with them a bit to get them working again. The car is a 1999 so no big deal it comes with the age. The replacement part is cheap at the dealership but I'm holding out. The paint is pretty badly oxidized. I live in Arizona and the car is older so it's expected but looks kind of bad. The model I have is the CE edition and it came with steel wheels that had hubcaps and I regularly lost hubcaps (mostly because used ones have broken clips and they don't secure well). In fact there probably isn't a used Sienna hubcap within a 50 mile radius of my house because I have gone through them all. I finally just bought some late 1990's Toyota Camry alloy wheels off eBay for $200 and although they are scuffed a bit they match the age and condition of my car and maintain the original look of the vehicle. Door handles seem loose and ready to break and apparently its normal for Toyota's of this age but it still is something to look for if buying used because replacement cost and labor can run $75-100 for each handle. The only other thing I guess I would mention is the 3.0L V6 for this model uses a timing belt instead of a chain. My car has low mileage but due to the age of it I had the timing belt and water pump changed at the Toyota dealership with a coupon I found on their website. It cost $1500 to have that done along with a complete tune up with spark plugs, wires, etc. Sure, you can find some shade tree mechanic shop to do it for $150-200 less but I got genuine Toyota parts / service / and warranty. I recommend this model to anyone who wants reliability, a good looking vehicle, smooth ride, and lots of room. Sometimes people try to race around me on the freeway on-ramp but they get a nice little reality check when I throw that V6 into action. LOL eat my dust!!!

Great Mini Van

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned since new. Has never left me stranded, always been dependable. 139,000 miles and no major problems. I do most all my own maint. I do regular oil changes (syn) I also do drain and refill on tranny at every oil change, some may say thats not needed, but I have never had trouble with Trans. and it only takes 4 qts at a cost of $12.00 which is small price compared to new Trans. Biggest expense was new exhaust from manifold back including new converter, total cost $600.00. Some small problems such as right sliding door sticks, and drivers side window motor is bad. So overall been a great van. I will drive it until the doors fall off.

Good Car, Doors Are Terrible

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

It's reliable most of the time. We had to rebuild the alternator twice. Mechanically, it seems to do great, but it's the little things that drive me crazy. In the 4 years we've owned the vehicle, we've had to fix the doors 3 times (3 outside door handles, 1 inside door mechanism). Seems minimal, right? No. Each fix cost us between $200 and $300 because they have to take the door apart from the inside to get the handle in. It's all Labor. The sliding doors have always stuck too. My suspicion is the previous owner had these issues too because the inside sliding door panel on the right side won't stay in place, Probably been taken apart too many times. Current issue: stuck ignition switch.

Amazing Gem of a vehicle

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I thought I would never be a mini van family. I started out with a excursion for my family of 5-WAY TO THIRSTY and doesn't drive near as fun/GREAT as a Sienna. I drove a 04 Sienna than a 06 absolutely LOVED the way they handled, felt, and drove. I looked high and low for a a 04 or newer in my price range 11K it was not happening then I came across my new 99 Sienna XLE-I had my doubts at 1st. I didn't drive a 99 and with 159K mls??. THE XLE has beautiful leather seats and it still drove like it just came off the show room floor. These Sienna's are so remarkable do not short change yourself and settle with competition without driving Sienna first. It is truly a luxury mini above the rest.

Wish I Could Own It Forever

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Just passed 326,000 mi. on my Sienna. Purchased new in 1999 - absolutely the best car ever! Faithful maintenance seemed pricey at the time-timing belt every 60,000 miles, e.g., but I stuck to it & can count the number of repairs on one hand. Water pump at 200,000, stuck seat belt, tie rod ends @ 250,000. Had 3 prior Chrysler minivans, none of which lasted more than 140,000; all needed new radiators, transmissions etc. Inconceivable on this van. Not even broken plastic parts. Didn't use the tow package 'til recently. Added a trailer hitch and took a full U-haul across the Appalachians at 300,000 miles w/no problems. Driver seat has great lumbar support - when my back hurts I go sit in my car.

Side Door Handle

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought this new--it's been great with regular maintenance. Replaced the battery twice, we're on 125K now. The side rear door handle on the outside broke off in my hand. $100/part alone. The inside rear door handle has stuck for about 10 of the 11 years--never worked, gets stuck in and then you can't close the door without prying it loose. The only drawbacks are the one side door and the lifting of seats in/out of the van. The newer ones seem a lot better designed. Overall, we love this van and we'll keep driving it till it dies...

Wow, where to start...

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

Got new, little over 110k now. On 5th set of tires. Can't keep pressure consistent. Front left tire 1st to be replaced. Radio knobs broke in half. Driver window off track. Need new starter now and front right making awful noise (maybe cv joint needs replacement?). Automatic door sticks and now hardly working. Dash lights barely visible. Had wreck and when dealership repaired, broke piece that held passenger window mechanism into door. Never fixed. Corners of luggage rack have come unglued. Dealer never told us of major saving coupons in middle of manual or we had liquid weatherproof for paint. Tire pressure light on most of time as it wont stay aligned and balanced.

Just Turned 200,000!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Normal maintenance, some extra cleaning of rear breaks, regular synthetic oil changes. Had one handle break at 120,000. Replaced it myself. Starter replaced at 140,000. Luv the car.

Really Great

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Just had 10 year anniversary. Soccer mom. Purchased new. Has been a dream vehicle. Now have 135,000 miles. Drives like luxury vehicle. Has been extremely reliable. Have just needed reg. maintenance, i.e oil changes regularly, 18 month brake jobs, (heavy city travel). On 3rd set of Michelin tires, on 3rd battery. Had to replace motor for power window and an alternator. Am now having timing belt, water pump, and ac and ps belts changed for first time which is normal maintenance. Now in its 10th plus year, starting to have a few issues. Valve gaskets are now leaking oil and need replacement. Repair described is approx. $1000 for belts, wp, and new gaskets with labor. Heavily recommend vehicle.

Plastic Door Handles

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

Why on Earth would ANY car company use plastic door handles that break continuously? We are extremely gentle on the handles since we discovered this scam that Toyota has. The handles still break. Since buying this van all of the door handles have been broken at least once and some have broken more than once. Again, we are very gentle with the door handles and they still break. This is such an issue with me that I will NOT buy another Toyota that has plastic parts that are pulled on. My driver's door handle just cost $125 (parts only) at the dealership, the only place locally to get the parts. I have no plans to ever buy a Toyota again because of this.

A brilliant vehicle

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought it new and done 180000K. Only maintenance so far is replacing power steering pump and routine maintenance of brakes and timing belt twice as per schedule. We were so impressed with Sienna,we bought a second Sienna for my wife!

1999 Sienna as seen in 2008-bad tranny!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

Delighted with the drivability after we bought it in 2005 w/99K mi. Almost no problems the first 2 years.Then in quick succession the radiator and starter failed, soon followed by the tranny. We took it to a reliable tranny shop recommended by our mechanic. They fixed it and we continued to drive it problem free for about 7 months, when the tranny again went out. We took it back to the same shop, who stood by their guarantee, though they kept having problems getting everything right and had to start over about 5 times (cost us only about $200.00 for one add'l part). We drove it only 3 months and the tranny again went out; now no longer under warranty from original repair. Selling this $ pit.

Good Overall Value for a Family Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We bought this new with a roof rack, cruise, rear AC, and the tow package. We liked it because it drove the most like a car compared to other MVs and for the Toyota reputation. We had a few problems (fuel injectors - fixed on warranty, sticky sliding door button, etc), which weren't big issues. During the 130K miles, the only major repairs (on us) were to replace the brakes (including drums/discs) twice and a new timing belt. Other than that, this has been a really good car for us. It has served us well, even with the abuse from 2 little boys. It is roomy and rides great. On several long trips, it got great freeway mileage (25+), even towing a small jet ski trailer.

Sliding doors Sienna stuck

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Love our Sienna but the rear sliding passenger doors are a chronic problem. They are difficult to open from the inside as well as the outside. The knob in the interior gets stuck in the "in" position and thus will not open. On the outside we are now using only one door. The other is impossible to open. The frustrating part is that this is not an uncommon problem for the 1999 Sienna yet my incredible frustration with the dealers and Toyota on a national level who have decided that it is not their problem but the customer. Unfortunately having been loyal customers to Toyota and service we will seriously consider a Subaru or Honda on our next purchase of a vehicle. Just cattle at Toyota.

It just keeps going

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

We purchased this new and it currently has 257,000 miles on it. Recently replaced inner tire rods and that's all.

Will it die?

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought this Sienna van used a couple months ago. After driving a couple of weeks the trans started making a grinding/whining noise, (shifts okay), almost like a bad differential. I took it to a trans shop where they gave me the bad news. Trans needs to be replaced; $1,400. Oh well, I'll keep driving 'till it drops. So far, 4000 miles and steady as she goes. I guess the trans repair will pay for itself. Having never owned a minivan, this one is a blast. This van never lets me down when there is somewhere to go; bad trans and all! I've never had a Toyota let me down yet; 98 Tercel, 05 Taco, 07 Yaris, 99 Sienna. Bullet-proof van, only had to do routine maintenance so far.

1999 Toyota Sienna CE 4 Dr Van

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This has been a very reliable vehicle. We bought this van used with 34000 miles on it. Although it is a CE it has many upgrades such as tinted windows, an upgraded CD system, etc. It currently has around 182000 on it and we have had no problems. It is a smaller van, which I happen to like, but it is laid out well inside. You can fit a surprising amount of luggage or groceries in the back, and you can stow things under the seats. The two sliding doors are great - no worrying about climbing and reaching car seats. If you are looking for a low maintenance reliable mini-van I highly recommend the 99 Sienna.

Reliable and safe!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought our Sienna used 3 years ago, and have since driven 30K. This van has proven to be more reliable than other manufactures that our neighbors and friends have had. Other than oil changes, we've only replaced the front struts. The tire pressure light was sometimes a bother, but I figured out the reset by reading the manual. Unfortunately, my wife was in a head on collision, and it's unknown if our insurance will fix it or not. However, the airbag worked, and she was back to work the next day with only minor bruises. We plan to get another Sienna if we lose this one. Average MPG was 18, but we often get 25-26 on highway trips.

Most reliable thing on the road!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this minivan in May 99 and got the XLE because of the power door feature which surprised me, but was not happy that the power door needs repairing so soon. So far I have 88k miles and have never encountered problems with the engine because of its perfect realiability. A previous minivan didn't make it up hills had so many problems but the Sienna goes up hills with authority.

great mini van

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

all I can say is that I should have bought a Toyota a long time ago. I purchased the van and decided to drive to Cape Cod. I didn't even think twice to drive it twelve hours straight. It went down and back up without any questions. the vehicle ran so smooth that at times I caught myself doing 90 to 95 mph and not even noticing how fast I was traveling. Have a blast if you get one...

Good vehicle

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've owned a Chrysler minivan and a Ford minvan and the Sienna is WAY superior. We bought it as a 2 year old vehicle and could have purchased a new Chrysler Town & Country for about the same money, but the Sienna was such a better vehicle we purchased that and have no regrets. Great family vehicle.

The good, the bad, and the . . .

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

Bought this van new as a replacement for 1989 Mazda MPV. Good power and handling (for a minivan) and a very comfortable highway cruiser. Adequate luggage space with all seats up and excellent with rear seats folded or removed. Good size - longer than the MPV and shorter than the Chrysler, Honda, etc. Generally good reliability except for the power sliding door (see below).

great family vehicle

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased this van from a family member who bought it new. Only the tires have needed replacing, but the brakes will need replacing soon. It now has 82K miles on it, and the engine still drives smoothly and gas mileage is better than an SUV. This vehicle is very family friendly, and we feel safe driving it. It handles very well in bad weather, which is a big plus for me. It has some rattles in various places, but we have put it through a lot. It rides like a car, and it has been a good travel vehicle. It doesn't have many extras, but it has been very functional for our needs. I wasn't crazy about the idea of getting a mini- van, but we have been very pleased with it overall.

Family van

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Excellent family van - great for trips with 4-6 adults, too. Plenty of passenger room, even with our oversized friend (280 pound linebacker) front and second row.

Known problem with fuel injectors

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

At 68K engine started missing and running rough. Took van to dealership & was told it was "bad NY gas" that clogged up the fuel injectors so we needed new ones. Took van to independent garage and they showed us a Toyota TSB concerning a design problem with the injectors and they had to be replaced. These were "special" injectors fromToyota that retailed for $150 each and we needed 6.

durable, good performance, sweet engine

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Flawless performer for almost 94K now. Only one minor glitch with the tire pressure warning light that the dealer could not remedy. The reminder light isn't an active warning system; I don'teven miss it. Wonderful, smooth engine & drive train. Rugged interior (grey cloth) that has worn well with soccer players, two large dogs, antiques, lawn mower, etc. Wish we had gotten the LE's alloy wheels, though.

Why Not To Buy A Sienna

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

We have broken three passanger handles. We cannot get the vehicle to align we tried 3 times. We have been thru 3 sets of tires and three brake jobs. None of the above are covered by the extended warranty. (Never buy an extended warranty from Toyota) All work was done by dealer with exception of the last brake job was done by a shop that carries a lifetime warranty.

It's Good and Bad of it

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 5

Good-comfortable ride, reliable, engine fairly quiet. Bad-front-end won't aligned-constant pull to the right; 4 sets of tires in 120,000 miles-can't locate or fix the problem; replacing the rear lights rear door panel costs $65 at the dealership-you cannot do it; paint peeling off door handles; poorly designed sliding door handles/buttons fail to open or stuck open where the door could be closed-cost $175 per handle; dashboard lights that highlight the AC/Heater dial are shorting (sometimes they re-light with a tap on the dash-most the time not).

Super reliable vehicle

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Purchased new in 1999, now has 72000 miles. It has never been back at the dealer since we purchased it. I never thought I would like driving a mini- van, but this Sienna drives like a car. I really enjoy driving it. Excellent gas mileage on the highway- avg mileage in town.

Don't Buy This Car!

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I have owned many cars in the past. My most important criteria in a car is reliability. My Sienna is 4.5 years old with 48k miles and I have to spend $1300 replacing all 6 fuel injectors - not covered by the 5 yr 60k warranty. Toyota does not stand by its products. I have never had to spend so much on any car - even those I had for 10 years! The first month we had the car the master cylinder for the ABS failed and left us with no brakes. There are so many vans to choose from - Don't choose a Toyota Sienna.

Very Pleased in fifth year

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought the Sienna in June 99 since the Honda Odessy's were back ordered 6 months and suggested premium fuel. At 54K miles I have not had anything more than some minor annoyances crop up, like intermittent emergency brake warning light on dash. Engine and transmission have been flawless and I get 20-22 mpg all around and 27 mpg on extended trips. Although I change my oil every 3-4K miles and normally use synthetic, I was glad to see Toyota recognize the oil sludge problem and extend the warranty. After reading reviews indication transmission problems at 70-80K miles, I am a little concerned and hope Toyota considers extending this warranty also.

Reliability

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

We bought our CE in 2001 with 34K miles on it. Since then we have maintained it regularly and the only problem we've had is the screw that hold the rear window in place came out. Labor was expensive because it was not easy to get at but we have not had any other problems. It now has 64K miles on it and runs strong.

Over All Good BUY

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

We have had problems getting the vehicle to maintain its wheel alignment. The passanger door handle has broken. And we have 75K miles and have went thru 3 sets of brakes. The dealer says it is normal wear. Other than that the vehicle has been a good vehicle.

A Great Van

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car has a wonderful balance between functionality, convienence, and confort. The car rides very well for a van and yet provides the space and ability to haul people or cargo long distances.

1999 toyota Sienns Transmission Failure

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

This van is unlike toyota reliability with respect to transmission at or around 60K miles. The transmission failure around 60K miles is unaccepted when we pay a premium to own, because of toyota reliability.

1999 toyota Sienns Transmission Failure

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Overal we have bee happy with the XLE. With regular maintenance, it has given us much fewer problems than our previous Plymouth Voyager. However at 72,000 miles the transmission is going faulty. I have heard from a Canadian toyota dealer that the transmission has been an issue with the Sienna. One owner said that their dealer routinely changes the transmission fluid at 30,000 mile intervals. Toyota recommends 45,000. However, after searches on the internet it seems that engine failure due to oil sludge has been more of a common problem than the transmission. Personally, I don't think thats right for a $30,000. car that has been regularly maintained.

Very Disappointing

Performance: 2 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 2

I bought the Sienna with high hopes but I am really disappointed with its performance. The drive is not fun at all, the brakes give problems all the time, wind and road noise is high and visibility is pretty poor.

99 SIENNA

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I BROUGHT IT WITH ALL THE ACVAILABLE FEATURES AT THAT TIME, WAS ABIT EXPENSIVE BUT WELL WORTH IT, EXTREMELY RELIABLE LIKE A TOYOTA. NO PROBLEMS UNTILL NOW THE BRAKES FROZE THIS WINTER AS I LEAVE IT OUTSIDE, WHICH I HAD REPAIRED,THE TYRE LIGHTS ARE AN ANNOYANCE I AM VERY SATISFIED ABOUT THE OVERALL QUALITY OF THE CAR

Solid and reliable

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Sienna has delivered solid performance, mileage and comfort. We've put 70,000 miles on it and nothing has ever needed repair. We have two kids that can break anything they put their minds to, but thus far the Sienna has stood up to their punishment admirably. Driving this van is more like driving a car than any other van we tested. That's the main reason we bought it. The fact that it got the highest safety rating of any passenger van in 1999 was also appealing. Complaints? The quad-seat layout we got makes getting into the third row difficult for adults. The audio system, a 6-speaker CD/AM-FM combo, isn't as punchy as I like.

Sienna XLE

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A smooth-riding, tightly built, versatile travel machine. Great leather seating and the Camry engine make the best value.

Owning a Toyota Sienna can really hurt!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 2

We bought our Sienna with 10 miles on the odometer. The transmission went out at 78,000 miles. A couple we play tennis with had to replace their Sienna's Transmission at 72,000 miles!! The Toyota dealership wanted $4,100 to replace the transmission with a rebuilt one. OUCH! We had it rebuilt by some low-budget grease monkeys for $1600. We're now looking for a sucker to buy the van. Anyone interested????

I love my Sienna

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had this van for over a year. I just love it! I've had more than 20 cars before this one, and this is the best I've ever had! And I will stay with Toyota! I routinely have the maintenance done by dealer. Had many long trips (16 hours non-stop drive), yet it never gave me any problem. I don't know the problems with those guys, but it's probably the dealer who gave you the hard time and you in turn blamed on Sienna? Anyway, I just love this car.

A van as a friend

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I really do not know why some people think this van is not good. I have had this van for more than three years. It is so smooth to drive. I never had to go to dealer except change engine oil. I had no any problem with it. but honestly I used 93 gas all the time, and probably it is the reason why I had no problem at all.

Great Vehicle

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought the van in 99 and have driven the pants off of it! It now has 92,000 miles on it, change the oil every 5 to 7.5K miles and it runs beautifully. Oil still light brown after all those miles, and doesn't use a drop of oil between changes. Took on long trip across Nevada, got 26 mpg driving between 75 and 80 mph! (Over 540 miles on one tank!) Only problem has been a broken rear latch (200 bucks to fix) and a slow driver's side window caused, we believe, after it was stolen and recovered. Could use more room behind rear seats, but seats are a dream to flip up or remove.

Give me a some new rear brakes that work

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 1 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

My Sienna CE and have had an on going problem with the rear brake drums. The rear brakes have a thumping sound under low speed braking. There is little point to machine the rear brake drums, since this remedy does not work. Toyota has not been able to repair the rear brakes because of “hot spots or hard spots” in the drums. The turning of the drums is only a temporary solution and has the brake wear the “harden spots” become high spots that cause the thumping noise to occur.

A big disappointment

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

I have owned Toyotas for years. I had always been happy with their quality and reliability - until now. I have had nothing but problems with this van and been blamed repeatedly by the dealer for all the problems. Its funny that I take care of all my Toyotas the same way and none of them ever had any problems like this. The engine is destroyed by oil sludge. Its in the shop getting a new engine right now. The interior of the van is falling apart. The vanity mirrors fell off. The door buttons stick in the down position so you can't close the door. I haul my kids around in this van and it needs to be safe and reliable. This van is WAY off base for that.

Toyota Sienna Minivan Expeirance

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Sludge or Oil Gel problem, Had to have engine replaced, blamed poor maintence on consumer, not the case! Have owned toyotas for 20 yrs., the rest have all been fine. Side passanger doors stick which is a saftey issue, they just keep lubing the doors instead of replacing the mechanisims in the handle till the door handle broke off, which they made us pay for.

best van I ever had

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I already owned three van before I got this van. It is the best van I ever had. I believe I will stick to sienna if I could get chance to replace it. But probably i have no chance since it seems be able running forever. I never had any even tiny problem on it.

The Sienna

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The Sienna is a GREAT family car. It handles like a car, unlike other minivans I have owned. It is tight, it does not rattle, it gives a smooth ride, even after 3 1/2 years of transporting heavy loads which include: family, friends, gardening & hardware supplies etc.

SLUDGE

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

This van was not as good inside as my plymouth van. It's hard to get into the very back seats. My plymouth was roomier. Since I've had sludge problems it's been downhill from there.

Wonderful Van

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After three years driving this van. I have nothing to complain especially for my small size family. I never had even one tiny problem with it. The only thing I could suggest is the cost of fuel since toyota recommends to use 91 or above gas and it costs more at current gas price. But anyway, I very like to buy toyota van again 5 or 8 years late (It just seems to last forever).

Great investment

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

My 2 sons both competitive Van in 1999 and 2000. Comparing ride, comfort and problems , The Toyota is head and Shoulders above Ford and Chevy Vans. Comfort and ease a driving along with its, NOT TOO BIG SIZE, is the key to all around use. Toyota gets a 10 in my book. In fact we also have a Lexus RX300 and We enjoy the Van equally.