Three problems related to automatic transmission have been reported for the 2002 Toyota Sienna. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2002 Toyota Sienna based on all problems reported for the 2002 Sienna.
On August 15, 2010 with the 2002 Toyota Sienna in park and with no key in the steering wheel a two year old was able to remove the gear shift from park allowing the vehicle to begin to move backwards. Several people were close by and were able to stop the vehicle which was backing up. Adults then checked the vehicle and in fact were able to move the shifter from park into gear (without the key in its ignition). On August 16 the vehicle was taken to the dealer who confirmed -"customer states the shifter comes out of park without the key in the ignition. Confirmed customer concern. Found shifter cable worn and in need of adjustment. ".
A 3 year old moved the gear shift lever on the steering column. The child easily moved from drive to neutral without depressing the brake pedal and the gear shift button. As a result, the vehicle rolled forward. Dealer notified.
While stopped in "drive" with foot on the brakes, the vehicle occationally attempts to surge forward.