The mid-size crossover SUV Toyota Venza debuted in 2008 and combines SUV adaptability with sedan-like comfort. The Venza has gained popularity among families and single people because of its roomy cabin, excellent fuel economy, and reputation for dependability. The Venza has, however, had a few problems throughout time, just like any other car. Let’s examine the best and worst model years and highlight the most typical issues Venza owners face.
The Toyota Venza models from 2009 and 2010 are regarded as having the greatest issues. Early problems with the first generation’s 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine included high oil consumption, steering system problems, premature brake wear, and water pump failure. Since it was the first year of production, the 2009 model year was particularly problematic and had many problems that were later fixed in later models.
Introduction to the Toyota Venza
A mid-size crossover SUV, the Toyota Venza was originally shown in 2008, focusing on the North American market. The Venza offers a smooth ride, a roomy cabin, and adaptable load capacity by fusing parts of a sedan and an SUV.
First Generation
The first-generation Venza was constructed on the Toyota K platform and shared parts with the Lexus RX and Toyota Camry. Two engine options were available: a 2.7-liter inline-4 (1AR-FE) with 182 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FE) with 268 horsepower. An automated gearbox with six speeds was used with both engines. All-wheel drive was an option in addition to front-wheel drive being the default.
Up to five people could be accommodated in the Venza, which also had a spacious cabin and a long range of standard and optional equipment. These included rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring, touchscreen infotainment, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a backup camera.
Second Generation
Toyota revived the Venza as a newly revamped vehicle for the 2020 model year after a five-year sabbatical. The Toyota New Global Architecture platform, which underpins other vehicles, including the Toyota RAV4 and Highlander, is the foundation for the second-generation Venza.
Powered with a 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine (A25A-FXS) coupled with two electric motors for the front-wheel-drive model and an extra electric motor for the all-wheel-drive variant, the new Venza is only available as a hybrid (at least in the US). The hybrid drivetrain is paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable gearbox (ECVT), which has a total output of 219 horsepower.
The second-generation Venza appears and feels more modern due to enhancements such as LED headlamps, a larger touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of enhanced safety features.
Extras include a panoramic glass roof, a JBL premium audio system, and ventilated front seats.
The Toyota Venza is renowned for its convenient design, smooth ride, and fuel economy (particularly in the hybrid variants). Its rivals include Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, and other mid-size crossover SUVs like the Honda Passport.
Years to Prevent
Despite Toyota Venza’s reputation for dependability, certain model years have had more problems than others. The most hazardous model years are 2009 and 2010, so stay away if possible.
2009
The 2009 Toyota Venza was the inaugural model year of the first generation, and subsequent model years corrected some of its original issues. The 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine’s excessive oil consumption and issues with the steering system, including steering rack leaks and early component wear, are regular complaints for this model year. Some owners have also voiced concerns about the braking system, particularly the brake pads’ and rotors’ premature wear.
- Number of complaints on CarComplaints: 44
- Most Common- Problems: Engine problems, Steering problems, interior accessories problems
2010
The 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine in the 2010 Toyota Venza continues to use too much oil, among other problems. There were also instances of water pump failure, which, if not immediately fixed, might cause overheating and perhaps engine damage. The air conditioning system has also given some owners issues, including compressor failure and refrigerant leakage.
- 31 complaints have been made on CarComplaints.com.
- Most Common Problems: Interior accessories problems, brakes problems, steering problems
2011, 2012, 2013
Although the Toyota Venza models from 2011, 2012, and 2013 had some issues, they were less serious than those from 2009 and 2010. Toyota made advancements throughout time, reducing the number of issues recorded for certain models. Interior accessory, electrical, and braking issues were the three most often reported faults for these three model years.
- Number of complaints on CarComplaints (2011): 16
- Number of complaints on CarComplaints (2012): 13
- Number of complaints on CarComplaints (2013): 12
Top Years
There are only so many years left to choose from, after all. Pick one of the following model years if you decide to buy a Toyota Venza:
2014, 2015
Compared to the earlier years (2009-2013), these later Venza models have fewer problems on average. Many of the issues that cropped up in the earlier models were fixed by Toyota, making the 2014 and 2015 models more dependable options.
2021 and Newer Models
The second-generation Venza, sold in 2020 as a 2021 model, has a new look, more modern amenities, and a unique hybrid engine. These models use Toyota’s most recent technology and engineering developments, giving them reliable and current alternatives.
Most Prevalent Issues
Lack of a water pump
Some Venza owners have reported premature water pump failure. If this problem is not fixed immediately, the engine may overheat and suffer damage.
Airbag Issues
There have been occasional instances of Toyota Venza airbag problems. However, they are less frequent. The airbags failed to deploy as intended. This problem led to a recall by Toyota.
Issues and Leaks in the Steering Rack
Power steering fluid may be lost due to leaks in the steering rack, making steering more difficult and harming the power steering system. Additionally, some owners have mentioned drifting, whining, and rattling while steering.
Faulty Brakes
Premature brake wear may occur in certain Venza models, requiring more frequent brake pads and rotors replacement. This could sometimes result from problems with the brake calipers or other braking system parts.
Interior Design Qualitative
Lower-quality interior accessories could be present in earlier Venza models, which might cause problems like rattling, squeaking, or early wear and tear.
Sunroof Issues
Many Toyota Venza owners have reported incidents where their sunroof exploded or broke spontaneously without warning. This problem is most often the result of a sunroof design error or the use of low-quality materials.
What Is the Toyota Venza’s Lifespan?
Buying a Toyota Venza, regardless of the model year, means investing in a car with a solid track record of dependability. Consumer Reports gave the 2021 Venza a “predicted reliability” rating of four out of five, compared to perfect ratings for earlier versions. A Toyota Venza may go between 100,000 and 200,000 miles with adequate maintenance and care before experiencing significant problems.
Additionally, the cost of owning a Toyota Venza is significantly below average ($444 annually) in fuel efficiency and repair costs.
So, regardless of its age, you can be sure that a Toyota Venza will serve you well for many years and countless miles on the road.
Conclusion
The Toyota Venza is a trustworthy and adaptable mid-size crossover SUV that provides a smooth ride, roomy cabins, and exceptional fuel economy, especially in hybrid variants. But when thinking about a Venza, it’s critical to be aware of the two most challenging years (2009 and 2010). More problems occurred in the early years than in the later versions. However, Toyota has continuously improved to overcome these difficulties.
A Venza can give years and miles of reliable performance with the right upkeep and care. Be aware of the most frequent faults with the Venza, such as water pump failure, steering rack leaks, airbag issues, faulty brakes, and sunroof issues, and address any concerns as soon as they arise to preserve a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
