The 1999 Toyota Sienna represents the first generation of Toyota's popular minivan, launched in 1997 as a 1998 model year and produced until 2003. Built on the reliable Camry platform, this minivan body style offered practicality and a car-like driving experience. Available in CE, LE, and XLE trims, new prices ranged from approximately $22,000 to $28,000. It stood out for its legendary Toyota reliability and spacious, family-friendly design.
The Good
The 1999 Sienna excels in its renowned Toyota reliability, offering peace of mind for families and practical low-maintenance ownership. Its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and decent fuel efficiency make long trips enjoyable. It represents excellent long-term value, providing dependable transportation that appeals to those seeking both emotional comfort and practical economy.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses for the 1999 Toyota Sienna include rust, particularly on the subframe and rocker panels, issues with the power sliding doors, and occasional power steering leaks. While generally robust, some owners report aging suspension components needing replacement, and the styling can be considered somewhat bland compared to flashier rivals.
1999 Toyota Sienna: Quick Overview
Key Specifications for the 1999 Toyota Sienna:
- Engine Option: The 1999 Sienna was exclusively powered by a robust 3.0-liter 1MZ-FE V6 engine. This engine was known for its smooth operation and strong reliability, sharing its lineage with the Toyota Camry.
- Horsepower: This V6 engine produced a respectable 194 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 209 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm, providing adequate power for daily driving and highway cruising, even when fully loaded.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel efficiency for the minivan was competitive for its era. EPA estimates typically ranged around 18-20 miles per gallon in the city and 24-26 miles per gallon on the highway, depending on driving conditions and maintenance.
- 0-60 MPH Times: The 1999 Sienna could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 9.5 to 10 seconds. While not a speed demon, this performance was sufficient for merging onto highways and keeping pace with traffic.
- Towing Capacity: When properly equipped with the optional towing package, the 1999 Toyota Sienna had a maximum towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. This made it capable of towing small trailers, jet skis, or utility trailers, adding to its versatility.
- Trim-Level Features:
- CE: The base model, offering essential features like air conditioning, power windows and door locks, dual front airbags, an AM/FM stereo with cassette player, and anti-lock brakes (often optional).
- LE: Stepped up from the CE, adding features such as cruise control, a roof rack, an upgraded audio system (often with a CD player), alloy wheels, power heated outside mirrors, and often a single power-sliding door (driver's side).
- XLE: The top-tier luxury trim. This included dual power sliding doors, automatic climate control, a more premium audio system (often with a multi-disc CD changer), leather upholstery (optional), woodgrain interior trim, fog lights, and a more comprehensive set of power accessories.
1999 Toyota Sienna Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1999 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Sienna |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle Van |
| Category | Cargo Van |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.0 L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 1999 Toyota Sienna Have?
Despite its reputation for outstanding reliability, the 1999 Toyota Sienna, like any vehicle of its age, has some frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns that potential owners should be aware of. One of the most common issues involves the power sliding doors. Over time, the cables, motors, and rollers can wear out, leading to erratic operation or complete failure. This can be a costly repair, especially for the dual power door XLE trim.
Another significant concern, particularly in regions with salted roads, is rust. Owners frequently report rust on the subframe, rocker panels, rear wheel arches, and even around the fuel filler neck. Thorough inspection for rust is crucial.
Power steering leaks are also a relatively common complaint, often stemming from the lines or the pump itself. While not always catastrophic, these leaks can lead to a loss of power assist if ignored.
Regarding the engine, the 3.0L 1MZ-FE V6 is generally robust, but some instances of oil sludge issues were noted in earlier versions of this engine if maintenance, specifically frequent oil changes, was neglected. While less prevalent in the 1999 model year compared to some earlier applications, it emphasizes the importance of a detailed service history.
The air conditioning system can also develop issues over time, with common failures including the compressor or leaks in the evaporator or condenser, leading to diminishing cooling performance. Worn suspension components, such as struts and bushings, are also common wear items at this age and mileage.
As for recalls, while specific campaigns vary by VIN and date, the first-generation Sienna has had recalls related to potential issues with the steering column, brake light switches, and certain components of the seat belt system. Prospective buyers should always check the NHTSA website using the specific VIN to determine any outstanding recalls. Overall, these issues are typical for a vehicle nearing its third decade; proactive maintenance significantly mitigates most of these concerns.
Another significant concern, particularly in regions with salted roads, is rust. Owners frequently report rust on the subframe, rocker panels, rear wheel arches, and even around the fuel filler neck. Thorough inspection for rust is crucial.
Power steering leaks are also a relatively common complaint, often stemming from the lines or the pump itself. While not always catastrophic, these leaks can lead to a loss of power assist if ignored.
Regarding the engine, the 3.0L 1MZ-FE V6 is generally robust, but some instances of oil sludge issues were noted in earlier versions of this engine if maintenance, specifically frequent oil changes, was neglected. While less prevalent in the 1999 model year compared to some earlier applications, it emphasizes the importance of a detailed service history.
The air conditioning system can also develop issues over time, with common failures including the compressor or leaks in the evaporator or condenser, leading to diminishing cooling performance. Worn suspension components, such as struts and bushings, are also common wear items at this age and mileage.
As for recalls, while specific campaigns vary by VIN and date, the first-generation Sienna has had recalls related to potential issues with the steering column, brake light switches, and certain components of the seat belt system. Prospective buyers should always check the NHTSA website using the specific VIN to determine any outstanding recalls. Overall, these issues are typical for a vehicle nearing its third decade; proactive maintenance significantly mitigates most of these concerns.
How long will the 1999 Toyota Sienna last?
The 1999 Toyota Sienna is renowned for its exceptional longevity, with many owners reporting average mileage exceeding 200,000 miles, and numerous examples reaching well over 250,000 or even 300,000 miles with diligent maintenance. It's not uncommon to see these vehicles providing 15-20+ years of reliable service.
This long-term durability stems primarily from the robust 1MZ-FE V6 engine and a durable automatic transmission, which often outlast other components. However, weaknesses emerge over time. Rust becomes a major concern in areas exposed to road salt. Suspension components like struts and bushings, power steering systems, and air conditioning compressors are common items that require attention with age and mileage. Power sliding door mechanisms are also prone to failure. Consistent fluid changes and addressing minor issues promptly are key to achieving maximum service life.
This long-term durability stems primarily from the robust 1MZ-FE V6 engine and a durable automatic transmission, which often outlast other components. However, weaknesses emerge over time. Rust becomes a major concern in areas exposed to road salt. Suspension components like struts and bushings, power steering systems, and air conditioning compressors are common items that require attention with age and mileage. Power sliding door mechanisms are also prone to failure. Consistent fluid changes and addressing minor issues promptly are key to achieving maximum service life.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1999 Toyota Sienna, while advanced for its time, offered built-in technology, entertainment, and driver-assistance features that were characteristic of the late 1990s rather than modern vehicles. The "built-in tech" was relatively basic, primarily centered around its audio system and climate controls. Standard entertainment included an AM/FM radio, often paired with a cassette player, with a single CD player becoming standard on higher trims or an option. An optional multi-disc CD changer was available, usually mounted under the seat or in the center console, providing more audio variety. The XLE trim sometimes featured rear audio controls and headphone jacks, a novel family-friendly feature.
Driver-assistance features, as we understand them today, were largely absent. There was no blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control. The primary safety enhancements in this category were anti-lock brakes (ABS), which were optional on the base CE trim but typically standard on the LE and XLE models, offering improved stopping capability in slippery conditions.
In terms of passive safety, the 1999 Sienna came standard with dual front airbags for the driver and front passenger. Side airbags were not available for this model year. Other standard safety equipment included three-point seatbelts for all outboard seating positions and child-seat tether anchors. The robust body structure, designed on the Camry platform, aimed to offer a strong safety cage.
Crash-test ratings for the 1999 Toyota Sienna from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were generally positive. It received five out of five stars for both driver and front passenger frontal impact protection, and also earned five stars for front and rear side-impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated the 1999 Sienna as "Good" in its moderate overlap frontal test, which was a commendable score for a minivan of that era, indicating solid structural integrity and occupant protection.
Driver-assistance features, as we understand them today, were largely absent. There was no blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, or adaptive cruise control. The primary safety enhancements in this category were anti-lock brakes (ABS), which were optional on the base CE trim but typically standard on the LE and XLE models, offering improved stopping capability in slippery conditions.
In terms of passive safety, the 1999 Sienna came standard with dual front airbags for the driver and front passenger. Side airbags were not available for this model year. Other standard safety equipment included three-point seatbelts for all outboard seating positions and child-seat tether anchors. The robust body structure, designed on the Camry platform, aimed to offer a strong safety cage.
Crash-test ratings for the 1999 Toyota Sienna from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were generally positive. It received five out of five stars for both driver and front passenger frontal impact protection, and also earned five stars for front and rear side-impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated the 1999 Sienna as "Good" in its moderate overlap frontal test, which was a commendable score for a minivan of that era, indicating solid structural integrity and occupant protection.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1999 Toyota Sienna Prices and Market Value
When new in 1999, the Toyota Sienna had a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) ranging from approximately $22,000 for the base CE model to over $28,000 for a fully optioned XLE trim. Today, on the used market, prices vary dramatically based on condition, mileage, and region. A 1999 Sienna in poor condition might fetch as little as $1,500, while a well-maintained, low-mileage example could still command $4,000 to $6,000 or more.
Minivans, in general, experience significant initial depreciation, but the Sienna's strong reputation for reliability helps it retain value better than many domestic competitors. Factors negatively affecting resale value include rust, non-functional power sliding doors, high mileage, and any deferred maintenance. Conversely, a clean title, a comprehensive service history, and a rust-free body significantly enhance its appeal and price in the used market.
Minivans, in general, experience significant initial depreciation, but the Sienna's strong reputation for reliability helps it retain value better than many domestic competitors. Factors negatively affecting resale value include rust, non-functional power sliding doors, high mileage, and any deferred maintenance. Conversely, a clean title, a comprehensive service history, and a rust-free body significantly enhance its appeal and price in the used market.
1999 Toyota Sienna Cost of Ownership
The 1999 Toyota Sienna generally offers an economical ownership experience. Insurance costs are typically low due to the vehicle's age, relatively low current market value, and strong safety ratings. Fuel costs are moderate for a V6 minivan, with its 20-22 MPG combined being average. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is inexpensive, and parts are readily available. While some common repairs like power sliding doors or A/C can be costly if they fail, the overall reliability means fewer unexpected major breakdowns compared to many peers. Its exceptional longevity means the cost per year of ownership is very attractive, making it a highly economical choice for long-term transportation.
1999 Toyota Sienna Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1999 Toyota Sienna Safety Rating
NHTSA
1999 Toyota Sienna Recalls & Defects
Electrical System:ignition:anti-Theft:control Module
Recall date
1998-10-19
Recall no.
98v278000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Sport Utility Vehicles, Mini Vans and Passenger Vehicles Equipped With A Theft Deterrent Systems (Tds) Supplied BY Audiovox Corporation and Distributed BY Southeast Toyota Distributors, Inc. IN THE States OF Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina. THE Alarm Wiring Harness Plugs Into THE Vehicle's Ignition Switch and THE Vehicle's Ignition Switch Wiring Harness Plugs Into THE Alarm Harness TO Complete THE Circuit. A Percentage OF THE Female Terminals Used IN THE Alarm Connector Were Found TO BE Defective, Causing AN 'open Circuit' Condition When Mated TO THE Male Ignition Switch Terminals.
Consequence
This Condition CAN Cause Intermittent Performance OF THE Vehicle's Electrical Components Such AS THE Dash Warning Lights And/Or Hvac FAN Speed Controls. Also, THE Vehicle MAY NOT RUN Smoothly and Could Stall.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Date Code Label ON THE Security System Harness and ANY Displaying THE Manufacturing/Final Date Code Will BE Replaced With Newly Produced Harnesses. THE Date Codes Are: Rav4 - 6/24/98, 6/25/98, 6/26/98; Sienna - 6/25/98, 6/26/98; and Avalon - 6/30/98, 7/1/98, 8/31/98, 9/1/98, 9/2/98, and 9/3/98.
Notes
Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin During October/November 1998.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Southeast Toyota Distributor AT 1-800-301-6859.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Electrical System:ignition:anti-Theft:control Module
Recall date
1998-10-19
Recall no.
98e035000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Equipment Description: Aftermarket Theft Deterrent Systems Used ON 1998-1998 Toyota Rav4, Avalon, and Sienna Model Vehicles Distributed BY Southeast Toyota Distributors, Inc. IN THE States OF Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina. THE Alarm Wiring Harness Plugs Into THE Vehicle's Ignition Switch and THE Vehicle's Ignition Switch Wiring Harness Plugs Into THE Alarm Harness TO Complete THE Circuit. A Percentage OF THE Female Terminals Used IN THE Alarm Connector Were Found TO BE Defective, Causing AN "open Circuit" Condition When Mated TO THE Male Ignition Switch Terminals.
Consequence
This Condition CAN Cause Intermittent Performance OF THE Vehicle's Electrical Components Such AS THE Dash Warning Lights And/Or Hvac FAN Speed Controls. Also, THE Vehicle MAY NOT RUN Smoothly and Could Stall.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Date Code Label ON THE Security System Harness and ANY Displaying THE Manufacturing/Final Date Code Will BE Replaced With Newly Produced Harnesses. THE Date Codes Are: Rav4 - 6/24/98, 6/25/98, 6/26/98; Sienna - 6/25/98, 6/26/98; and Avalon - 6/30/98, 7/1/98, 8/31/98, 9/1/98, 9/2/98, and 9/3/98.
Notes
Owner Notification IS Being Handled BY Southeast Toyota Distributors.owner Notification Began November 3, 1998. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Southeast Toyota Distributor AT 1-800-301-6859.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Structure
Recall date
2010-04-20
Recall no.
10v160000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 1998 Through 2010 Sienna Passenger Vehicles Manufactured Between August 7, 1997 and January 4, 2010, Currently Registered IN or Originally Sold IN Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington District OF Columbia, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. THE Subject Vehicles ARE Equipped With THE Spare Tire Stowed Under THE Vehicle. IF THE Vehicle IS Operated IN THE Cold Climate Regions OF THE United States Where Road Salt IS Frequently Used, Water Splashed Backwards With High Concentrations OF Road Salt CAN Reach THE Spare Tire Carrier and Corrode THE Spare Tire Carrier Assembly Cable.
Consequence
THE Cable MAY Break DUE TO Excessive Corrosion and THE Spare Tire MAY Separate From THE Vehicle, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Owners With AN Interim Letter Initially Instructing Them TO Bring Their Vehicle TO Authorized Dealers TO Inspect FOR Corrosion. A Second Notice Will BE Sent When THE Permanent Remedy IS Available. FOR More Information, Please SEE Toyota's Amended Recall Report OF July 19, 2010. THE Safety Recall IS Expected TO Begin ON October 12, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes
Toyota Recall NO. Aoe.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
1999 Toyota Sienna Insurance
Insurance for a 1999 Toyota Sienna is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle Van with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1999 Toyota Sienna Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Van?
The 1999 Toyota Sienna competed in a bustling minivan segment against key rivals like the Honda Odyssey, Dodge Grand Caravan/Chrysler Town & Country, Nissan Quest, and Ford Windstar.
In terms of performance, the Sienna's 194-hp V6 provided a smooth and adequate driving experience, feeling more car-like due to its Camry platform. It was generally competitive with, if not slightly less powerful than, the 2nd generation Honda Odyssey (which offered 210 hp) but often felt more refined than the domestic offerings. The domestics sometimes had more raw power options, but often at the expense of refinement and fuel economy.
Regarding features, the Sienna offered a solid array for its time, especially in LE and XLE trims with power sliding doors and automatic climate control. However, the Honda Odyssey often introduced more innovative interior configurations and storage solutions that the first-gen Sienna didn't quite match. Domestic rivals sometimes offered more optional "bells and whistles" but were often less robust.
Reliability is where the Sienna truly shone and often surpassed most of its competitors. Along with the Honda Odyssey, the Sienna consistently ranked among the most reliable minivans, particularly concerning its engine and transmission longevity. This was a stark contrast to the Dodge Grand Caravan and Ford Windstar, which frequently faced well-documented transmission and various mechanical issues that severely impacted their long-term dependability and resale value.
For price, the Sienna, like the Odyssey, commanded a higher new price and retained its value significantly better on the used market compared to the domestic brands. Its reputation for durability ensured it depreciated slower, offering better long-term value.
Recommended Alternatives:
In terms of performance, the Sienna's 194-hp V6 provided a smooth and adequate driving experience, feeling more car-like due to its Camry platform. It was generally competitive with, if not slightly less powerful than, the 2nd generation Honda Odyssey (which offered 210 hp) but often felt more refined than the domestic offerings. The domestics sometimes had more raw power options, but often at the expense of refinement and fuel economy.
Regarding features, the Sienna offered a solid array for its time, especially in LE and XLE trims with power sliding doors and automatic climate control. However, the Honda Odyssey often introduced more innovative interior configurations and storage solutions that the first-gen Sienna didn't quite match. Domestic rivals sometimes offered more optional "bells and whistles" but were often less robust.
Reliability is where the Sienna truly shone and often surpassed most of its competitors. Along with the Honda Odyssey, the Sienna consistently ranked among the most reliable minivans, particularly concerning its engine and transmission longevity. This was a stark contrast to the Dodge Grand Caravan and Ford Windstar, which frequently faced well-documented transmission and various mechanical issues that severely impacted their long-term dependability and resale value.
For price, the Sienna, like the Odyssey, commanded a higher new price and retained its value significantly better on the used market compared to the domestic brands. Its reputation for durability ensured it depreciated slower, offering better long-term value.
Recommended Alternatives:
- Honda Odyssey (1999-2004): The Sienna's closest and strongest rival. Offers similar outstanding reliability, often more innovative interior features, and slightly more power. A great "similar alternative."
- Toyota Highlander (early 2000s): If a minivan's sheer volume isn't absolutely necessary and some SUV characteristics are desired (like optional AWD), an older Highlander could be a "better alternative" for some, though with less ultimate passenger and cargo capacity.
- Mazda MPV (early 2000s): A "similar alternative" that offered a sportier driving feel, though its reliability generally didn't quite match Toyota or Honda.
Final Verdict: Is the 1999 Toyota Sienna a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Van?
The 1999 Toyota Sienna is an ideal vehicle for budget-conscious families, individuals needing practical and dependable transportation, or first-time minivan owners prioritizing longevity and low ownership costs over cutting-edge features. It's an excellent choice for those who value proven Toyota reliability and a comfortable, easy-to-drive package.
It is absolutely worth buying, but exclusively as a used vehicle. Look for examples that have been well-maintained, ideally with a verifiable service history. Crucially, seek out rust-free units, particularly in regions where road salt is used, and ensure the power sliding doors (if equipped) function smoothly. The LE or XLE trims offer a more desirable blend of features and comfort. Avoid neglected Siennas with significant rust or deferred maintenance, as even reliable vehicles can become money pits without proper care. A good 1999 Sienna offers exceptional value and many more years of service.
It is absolutely worth buying, but exclusively as a used vehicle. Look for examples that have been well-maintained, ideally with a verifiable service history. Crucially, seek out rust-free units, particularly in regions where road salt is used, and ensure the power sliding doors (if equipped) function smoothly. The LE or XLE trims offer a more desirable blend of features and comfort. Avoid neglected Siennas with significant rust or deferred maintenance, as even reliable vehicles can become money pits without proper care. A good 1999 Sienna offers exceptional value and many more years of service.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.