The Good
The 2003 Sienna shines in reliability and comfort. Its smooth V6 engine provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Practically, it offers ample space and a reputation for longevity. Emotionally, owning a Sienna offers peace of mind and a sense of security, knowing it can reliably transport your family.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2003 Sienna include potential for oil leaks (especially around the valve cover gaskets), transmission issues in higher-mileage examples, and rust, depending on the geographic location. The sliding door mechanisms can also be prone to wear and tear over time, requiring maintenance or repair.
2003 Toyota Sienna: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 3.3L V6
- Horsepower: 230 hp
- Fuel Economy: Approximately 17 mpg city / 23 mpg highway (may vary depending on driving conditions and vehicle maintenance)
- 0-60 Times: Around 8.3 seconds (estimated)
- Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs (when properly equipped)
- Trim-Level Features:
- CE: Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and basic audio system.
- LE: Added features like upgraded cloth upholstery, keyless entry, and improved audio options.
- XLE: Offered leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, upgraded sound system, and alloy wheels.
- XLE Limited: Included premium features such as heated seats, sunroof, rear entertainment system (optional), and premium sound system.
The CE trim was the base model and offered essential features. The LE provided a good balance of features and value. The XLE focused on comfort and convenience upgrades, while the XLE Limited offered the most luxurious experience with advanced features and enhanced comfort. Optional features varied across trims but could include a rear entertainment system, upgraded audio, and various safety enhancements.
2003 Toyota Sienna Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Toyota |
| Model | Sienna |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Minivan |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | 5-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1MZ-FE |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Toyota Sienna Have?
Recalls for the 2003 Sienna have addressed issues such as potential problems with the spare tire carrier and concerns regarding the brake light switch. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls.
Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the aforementioned oil leaks, transmission wear, and rust. Regular maintenance, including timely fluid changes and rust prevention measures, can help mitigate these issues. While the 2003 model doesn't have significantly different issues from other models in its generation, proactively addressing these common problems is vital for long-term ownership satisfaction.
How long will the 2003 Toyota Sienna last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Cruise control was a common feature, but there were no advanced systems like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring.
Safety features included standard front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Side airbags were available as an option on some trims. Stability control was not offered on the 2003 Sienna.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) can provide insights into the vehicle's safety performance. The 2003 Sienna generally performed well in crash tests for its time, but it's important to review specific ratings from these organizations for detailed information.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2003 Toyota Sienna Prices and Market Value
2003 Toyota Sienna Cost of Ownership
2003 Toyota Sienna Fuel Efficiency
2003 Toyota Sienna Safety Rating
NHTSA
2003 Toyota Sienna Recalls & Defects
Structure
2003 Toyota Sienna Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Toyota Sienna Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Alternatives to the 2003 Sienna include the Honda Odyssey of the same year, known for its handling and reputation (though slightly less reliable, depending on specific model year). The Mazda MPV is another option, offering a sportier driving experience but potentially less reliability. If reliability is paramount, the Sienna is a strong choice. If handling or specific features are more important, the Odyssey or other rivals may be worth considering. The Chrysler minivans can be a good value, but their long-term reliability is generally considered lower.
Ranks #171 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★) |
| 171 | 2003 Toyota Sienna | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Toyota Sienna a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Holeshot on June 13, 2023
This is a Great One.i bought it used with 150K on it. The only mechanical failures were the latch on the lift gate, 2 outside plastic door handles...and the cassette tape player. No Big Deal, I have no cassettes any more. The V6 runs smoothly the Tranny shifts well. the mileage is 17+ around town.
MarvinM on October 18, 2020
Most Reliable Car ever ownedI have driven from Memphis to Houston, TX numerous times. Great ride and very dependable. Replaced transmission once, over 333,000 on same engine...does not use oil. Best deal ever on vehicle...bought with 100,000 miles in 2009.
Bossnick on July 10, 2019
Great first carThe 2003 Toyota Sienna is a great all around car. There is plenty of room to carry a whole family on road trips or just down the street. I didn't have any issues outside of normal maintenance.
K.l.b on May 1, 2019
Best car I’ve ever owned love itBest car I’ve ever owned and I have owned a few new ones of my life Only wish I could afford a new one but at this stage of my life I guess not love Toyota l am 81 years old
long-time Toyota Fan! on October 19, 2017
Can't beat a Toyota!After 319,500 miles what can I say??? I loved...loved...loved this car! Have now purchased another Toyota(3rd one)..am a fan for life!!
Raspitah on August 15, 2017
Great family VanMy dad gave me one of these after purchasing a new vehicle. It seated 7 and had good power to haul a full crew. These are really good vehicles. They are well built, reliable and safe. I definitely recommend em!
TacoFan on July 13, 2017
A-TeamVanTo be honest the van i bought used with 70K miles on it, it was purchased for less than 3k dollars due to someone backing over the front clip with a truck. Which destroyed the upper radiator support, radiator, headlights, grill, hood, and two fenders, as well as liners and wheels.. The Van did run, but i didn't test drive it, and i ended up buying it to fix it, and use it as a daily driver.. I sourced all the parts from salvage yards, Sienna Van parts are very cheap, and i ended up replacing the parts.. the previous owner was a mechanic, the vehicle was very well taken care of, and while crushed, the airbags didn't deploy.. After a full repair, it was left in six different colors, so i painted the van with a rattle can in flat black.. this made the thing look like a stealth bomber, i ended up reaching out to some graffiti artists (5pointz) and having a pin-up girl painted on the side to resemble the WW2 series bombers, it sat to high, and getting lowering springs for a sienna proved to be impossible, so a torch later and some hot springs i got it to sag, to a lowered height, sourced some steel wheels from the breaker, and painted them red, grinded some used BF Goodwrich raised white letter tires to a smooth wide white wall and ended up making the sienna one of a kind.. This was easily IMO the coolest sienna to roam NY. This van was driven for work, play, and to shows... it ended up doing an additional 300+K miles.. to a 390K mile death when the steering rack went bad, and i traded it in.. actually got 6K for the trade, which is more than i paid, with all the modifications, honestly think the guy just thought the bomber look was really cool. I would love to do this to another one.. it was really a fun project.. Things to NOTE: Engine sluding does happen in the 1mzfe. This does not happen if the oil was changed every 3K miles or 5K miles and full synthetic was used.. If the vehicle was abused and not maintained.. this will ruin these engines.. Make sure you get a scope light and check in the valve cover (cam cover) for sludge.. otherwise you will have to take a lot of the engine apart to clean it up..
Talisa on April 15, 2017
nice,comfortable and roomyThanks for the experience.....................................................................................
ageers on March 21, 2017
It's a vanIt's a used van. Runs well. Clean, low miles. Have not had it for long so I can't really say much more.
Tory on July 13, 2014
Solid All-AroundMy family has owned an '03 Sienna since buying it new, and I was checking online to see how long it might last. We have something like 160K miles on it; a friend had the same model with over 200K, but that is the most I've heard. Recently, we replaced the brake pads for I don't know how much (maybe a few hundred?); maybe two years ago, we replaced the battery for like a hundred. The engine in this thing is strong (though I try to be gentle with it nowdays) and the gas mileage could be worse. Doesn't change directions quickly, or at least I wouldn't recommend trying: turning too fast makes it feel like it's going to roll over! I don't know if it is possible to do better for a large car. Smooth ride, though. Good for moving large items since four seats can be removed.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.