2017 Toyota Sienna used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Whining or grinding noise19 owner complaints, usually around 95,000 miles

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• Complete transmission failure12 owner complaints

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• Engine stalls while driving10 owner complaints

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Equipment adaptive/mobilityRecall number 25V876000, Dec 17, 2025
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 20V682000, Nov 4, 2020
• Fuel system, gasolineRecall number 20V012000, Jan 13, 2020
• Service brakes, hydraulicRecall number 19V553000, Jul 25, 2019
• SteeringRecall number 19V532000, Jul 16, 2019
• EquipmentRecall number 19V503000, Jun 28, 2019
• Service brakes, hydraulicRecall number 19V410000, Jun 4, 2019
• Service brakes, hydraulicRecall number 18V211000, Apr 3, 2018
• EquipmentRecall number 17V831000, Dec 20, 2017
• TiresRecall number 17V295000, May 2, 2017

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Some customers may experience echoing on the line calling the vehicle when using Bluetooth Hands FreeAug 20, 2025
• The air conditioning dye injection tool kit has been developed to aid in identifying the location of air...Jun 13, 2025
• The Immobilizer and Smart Key Reset is a feature that allows the registration of new keys when all master...May 30, 2023
• One or more of the following conditions: ?Head unit reboots at a specific locationJun 3, 2022
• TSB This Service Bulletin includes guidelines meant to help determine whether to repair or replace a wire...Jan 28, 2022
• TT: Some 2014-2021 model year vehicles equipped with Dynamic Torque Control AWD system may experience a...Jul 6, 2021

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.