by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2001 Toyota Sienna Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.38
Based on 28 Owner Reviews ▶
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2001 Toyota Sienna is a minivan, a practical choice for families seeking space and reliability. Part of the Sienna's second generation (1998-2003), the 2001 model came in CE, LE, and XLE trims. It was known for its smooth ride, spacious interior, and reputation for Toyota reliability. New pricing ranged from approximately $23,000 to $30,000. Its popularity stemmed from its blend of comfort, practicality, and Toyota's renowned dependability.
The Good

The 2001 Toyota Sienna's key advantages include its renowned reliability, providing peace of mind and reducing long-term costs (practical). It offers a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly design making family trips enjoyable (emotional). Decent fuel economy for its class and a good value proposition further enhance its appeal to budget-conscious buyers.

The Bad

The 2001 Toyota Sienna's known weaknesses include potential transmission issues (slipping or harsh shifting) as the vehicle ages. Rust can be a problem in regions with road salt. Power sliding door malfunctions are also reported. Inspect these areas thoroughly before purchasing a used model. Some report the styling as bland.

2001 Toyota Sienna: Quick Overview

Here's a summary of the 2001 Toyota Sienna's key specifications:

  • Engine: 3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE)
  • Horsepower: 210 hp @ 5800 rpm
  • Torque: 220 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
  • Transmission: 4-speed automatic
  • Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated): 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
  • 0-60 mph: Approximately 9.5 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs (when properly equipped)
  • Trim Levels & Features:
    • CE (Base): Air conditioning, power windows and locks, AM/FM radio with cassette player, cloth upholstery.
    • LE: Adds cruise control, upgraded audio system, privacy glass, and available options like alloy wheels and a sunroof.
    • XLE (Top-Tier): Leather upholstery, power driver's seat, automatic climate control, premium audio system, and alloy wheels standard. Wood trim accents.
  • Seating Capacity: 7 passengers
The CE was the base model, offering essential features. The LE added more convenience and comfort features, making it a popular choice. The XLE provided a more luxurious experience with leather and premium options. The engine remained the same across all trims.

2001 Toyota Sienna Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2001
Make Toyota
Model Sienna
Trim -
Style -
Type -
Category -
Manufacturing Details
Made In -
Manufacturing City -
Dimensions
Doors -
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine -
Engine Size -
Engine Cylinders -
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain -
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Market Price
Analysis
View VINCheck Report

What Problems Does the 2001 Toyota Sienna Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2001 Toyota Sienna often revolve around the automatic transmission. Slipping, harsh shifting, and complete failure are all possibilities, especially at higher mileages. It's crucial to check the transmission fluid condition and shift quality during a pre-purchase inspection. Power sliding doors can also be problematic, with motors failing or doors becoming difficult to open and close. Rust is another concern, particularly in areas where road salt is used. Inspect the undercarriage, rocker panels, and wheel wells for corrosion.
While specific to the 2001 model year, recalls sometimes addressed issues like faulty airbag inflators (a common concern across many vehicles from that era) and potential fuel leakage problems. Always check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability concerns primarily center around the aforementioned transmission and rust issues, as well as potential problems with the air conditioning system and various electrical components. Preventative maintenance, especially regular transmission fluid changes, can help mitigate some of these risks.

How long will the 2001 Toyota Sienna last?

With proper maintenance, a 2001 Toyota Sienna can realistically reach 200,000 to 300,000 miles, translating to 15-20+ years of service. However, longevity heavily depends on maintenance habits. Regular oil changes, timely transmission fluid replacements, and addressing issues promptly are crucial. Long-term durability is generally good, but weaknesses include potential rust (especially in colder climates), transmission issues (as mentioned earlier), and wear and tear on suspension components. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten its lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
TrinaJ
I was a lifelong sedan owner, never saw the need for anything else. Then because life happens, I ended up buying a cheap minivan (a Sienna) from a neighbor. They told me I'd love driving it. I thought they were just giving me a sales pitch, but they were so right! When that one ended up needing a new alternator at 400+k miles, I decided to get another one, the 2001 I currently have. It's got more bells and whistles (a 6 disc CD changer! Power rear doors! Digital AC control!) and I love it! It has 165k miles on it but otherwise it's clean, and judging from my previous minivan, that's nothing for a Sienna. So if you want one that lasts a long time, consider a Sienna.
luke skywalker
This Sienna is what I have been trying to find, for some time. Drives great, handles great, is reliable, everything works. Except the power rear door. But I don't care, it works manually. Good gas mileage. Has a hitch. Plenty of power to tow. A/C works, front and rear, etc. etc. and etc. Hey it even has a radio will cassette.
Blazerduckfan
AWESOME Minivan Have owned for 10 years. Very low maintenance! Very smooth ride and good gas mileage, just an overall great car. Has plenty of room and can also be used to move large items.
Negative Owner Reviews
Brenda
Was roomy for my 3 kids and carseats. Just not reliable with not knowing where the oil is going. No warning lights to alert a problem.
Love Family
Thank you lots for reading my review. 🙂 🙂 The positives: Our van has a lot of room for 7 people. We've taken several major trips with it. We've used the roof rack several times going on trips with 6-7 people We put an after market towing package on it. It does comes in really handy. The negatives: We paid to get our AC , cheep plastic door handles, back right electrical window, and several other items fixed well over $3,000.00. We just found out that the catalic convertor needs to be replaced. The interior right door handle doesn't work properly for people to use. This is not including regular matience. This is over the course of 5 years. The current mileage is around 217,000. I wouldn't recommend this particular year of Toyota Sienna Minivan. Abundant Blessings!!
Big D
Over all I llike the van. It is underpowered with a 3.0 engine although it will pull a 6 by 10 enclosed trailer. the transmission is when it shifts between 20 and 40 miles per hour. I got a good deal on mine with 120,000 miles no rust and does not use oil. I would by another one.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2001 Toyota Sienna offered relatively basic tech and safety features for its time. Entertainment was centered around an AM/FM radio with a cassette player (CD player optional on higher trims). Tech was limited to features like power windows, power locks, and cruise control (LE and XLE). Driver-assistance features were virtually non-existent compared to modern standards.
Safety features included standard dual front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available. Side airbags were optional on some trims.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA are available. The 2001 Sienna generally performed well in frontal impact tests. However, it's important to remember that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2001, so a modern vehicle would offer substantially better protection in a crash. Higher trims added convenience features such as automatic climate control and upgraded audio. Overall, the 2001 Sienna focused on practicality and reliability rather than cutting-edge technology.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
White
Black
Silver Metallic
Gold Metallic
Dark Green Mica
Blue Metallic
Interior Colors
Beige
Gray

2001 Toyota Sienna Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2001 Toyota Sienna ranged from around $23,000 for the base CE model to approximately $30,000 for a fully-equipped XLE. As of today, used market prices vary greatly depending on condition, mileage, and location. Expect to find them for anywhere between $2,000 and $6,000, or potentially less if the vehicle has significant issues. Depreciation has been substantial, as is typical for older vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, documented maintenance history, lack of rust, and working features (especially power sliding doors). Models with lower mileage and well-maintained examples command a higher premium.

2001 Toyota Sienna Cost of Ownership

The 2001 Toyota Sienna is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and safety record. Fuel economy is decent for a minivan of its era. Maintenance can be affordable if you perform basic tasks yourself. However, repairs can become costly, especially concerning the transmission and power sliding doors. Parts availability is generally good. Overall, it presents an affordable ownership experience compared to newer vehicles, but potential major repairs should be factored in.

2001 Toyota Sienna Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type -
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2001 Toyota Sienna Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2001 Toyota Sienna Recalls & Defects

Structure:frame and Members
Recall date 2001-03-05
Recall no. 01v072000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. THE Front SUB Frame Assembly HAS NOT Been Adequately Welded.
Consequence This Condition Could Cause Failure OF THE Assembly Following Long-Term Usage, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE Front SUB Frame, IF Necessary. Owner Notification Began April 9, 2001. 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 Toyota AT 1-800-331-4331.
Notes 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> .

2001 Toyota Sienna Insurance

Insurance for a 2001 Toyota Sienna is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2001 Toyota Sienna Compare to Other Vehicle?

The 2001 Toyota Sienna competed with minivans like the Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town & Country, and Dodge Caravan. In terms of reliability, the Sienna was generally considered on par with or slightly better than the Honda Odyssey, but significantly more reliable than the Chrysler/Dodge minivans, which were known for more frequent repairs. The Chrysler/Dodge models often offered more innovative seating configurations and features (like Stow 'n Go seating in later years), but at the cost of reliability.
Performance was similar across the board. The Odyssey might have offered slightly sharper handling, but the Sienna provided a smoother, quieter ride. Prices were generally competitive, though the Chrysler/Dodge models sometimes offered lower entry prices.
If reliability is your top priority, the 2001 Honda Odyssey is a similar alternative. However, given the age of these vehicles, condition and maintenance history are far more important than brand reputation. A well-maintained Sienna is preferable to a poorly maintained Odyssey (or vice-versa). Unless you need the specific features offered by the Chrysler/Dodge minivans, they are generally less desirable due to lower reliability.

Ranks #182 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
182 2001 Toyota Sienna (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Toyota Sienna a Good Vehicle?

The 2001 Toyota Sienna is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and spacious minivan. It's a good choice for families needing basic transportation without breaking the bank. It's worth buying *if* you find a well-maintained example with documented service history and a clean title. Avoid models with signs of rust or transmission problems. Given its age, buying used is the only option. The LE trim offers a good balance of features and value. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is essential to avoid costly repairs down the road.

2001 Toyota Sienna Owner Reviews

4.38
Consumer Rating, Based on 28 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
Cancel
Thank You for Your Review!

We truly appreciate the time and effort you took to share your experience with us.

Uh oh!

Something went wrong, please try again later.

Brenda on April 6, 2021

Not really impressed

Was roomy for my 3 kids and carseats. Just not reliable with not knowing where the oil is going. No warning lights to alert a problem.

Was this review helpful?
0
1

Originalpartsman on March 12, 2021

Original owner with 436,000 miles

Original engine and transmission. This was the best built car Toyota ever manufactured. Except for the plastic door handles. The key for this mileage is regular maintenance with the use of synthetic oil in the engine as well as the transmission and power steering. Check out Castrol synthetic products. Only use OEM for for critical parts. They are built better.Never buy critical parts on E-bay. Too many counterfeit parts

Was this review helpful?
1
0

TrinaJ on February 7, 2020

I'm living the minivan life

I was a lifelong sedan owner, never saw the need for anything else. Then because life happens, I ended up buying a cheap minivan (a Sienna) from a neighbor. They told me I'd love driving it. I thought they were just giving me a sales pitch, but they were so right! When that one ended up needing a new alternator at 400+k miles, I decided to get another one, the 2001 I currently have. It's got more bells and whistles (a 6 disc CD changer! Power rear doors! Digital AC control!) and I love it! It has 165k miles on it but otherwise it's clean, and judging from my previous minivan, that's nothing for a Sienna. So if you want one that lasts a long time, consider a Sienna.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

luke skywalker on September 28, 2019

Toyotas are superior vehicles in every way!

This Sienna is what I have been trying to find, for some time. Drives great, handles great, is reliable, everything works. Except the power rear door. But I don't care, it works manually. Good gas mileage. Has a hitch. Plenty of power to tow. A/C works, front and rear, etc. etc. and etc. Hey it even has a radio will cassette.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Blazerduckfan on August 16, 2019

Awesome minivan

AWESOME Minivan Have owned for 10 years. Very low maintenance! Very smooth ride and good gas mileage, just an overall great car. Has plenty of room and can also be used to move large items.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Wingos Girl on August 7, 2019

Spacious and comfortable

There is so much space in this van, even tall people have plenty of leftovers room. There are charging ports in the back for passengers. The seats fold down for easier access. Back 2 rows are also removable for even more space. irconditioning in the back with their own controls. Rear windows wing out. Even with all 3 rows of seats there is still extra space in the rear with access from the hatch. Working on it is even easier. Stock stereo is loud. Smooth drive.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

TeenMom on August 21, 2018

Great family and work car!

This van met all my needs- I could drive to work, drop off kids, carry items, etc. Very reliable, dependable, and an overall great van.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

JR on July 30, 2018

Most reliable car I've ever owned

I bought it because my car was stolen from Charles Barker Toyota an have had it serviced and inspected there. Its now got approximately 120K miles on it and everything is working great. I love my Toyota

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Love Family on April 6, 2018

Great family van and multiple problems.

Thank you lots for reading my review. 🙂 🙂 The positives: Our van has a lot of room for 7 people. We've taken several major trips with it. We've used the roof rack several times going on trips with 6-7 people We put an after market towing package on it. It does comes in really handy. The negatives: We paid to get our AC , cheep plastic door handles, back right electrical window, and several other items fixed well over $3,000.00. We just found out that the catalic convertor needs to be replaced. The interior right door handle doesn't work properly for people to use. This is not including regular matience. This is over the course of 5 years. The current mileage is around 217,000. I wouldn't recommend this particular year of Toyota Sienna Minivan. Abundant Blessings!!

Was this review helpful?
0
1

Mayaedebbie on March 16, 2018

Toyota Sierra mid size van. Runs great trying to s

I honestly believe it is a great car very convenient drives excellent no problems ever whoever gets this car for this crack price will be blessed woman driver one owner hundred seventy Thousand Miles 2750 OBO

Was this review helpful?
1
0
Author Image
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.