Table 1 shows one common forward collision avoidance related problems of the 2004 Toyota Sienna.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Automatic Emergency Braking problems |
The traction control system commonly malfunctions while making turns on curving road sections. I will lose power through turns as the tcs light blinks on my dashboard and makes a beeping sound. On some occasions the brakes will automatically engage in the tire that the car perceives as experiencing slippage. This problem is continuously worsening and commonly endangers me and my passengers, as the car engages brakes or cuts power to the engine at unexpected and in opportune times.
The slip indicator light and alarm comes on sporadically, engaging the abs suddenly and unexpectedly, when we are on completely dry roads. Happens while driving 40-80 mph. And doesn’t matter if I’m going straight or turning.
While driving at approximately 30 to 50 mph, on dry and smooth pavement, usually going on or off ramp to the left, the skid control engaged and warning sound came on, automatic brake takes over and start braking the van uncontrollably, pulling the vehicle to the right and nearly causing accidents.
I had the control arms replaced, then one of the bolts came out after a few thousand miles. I had that bolt replaced and the problem started happening intermittently after that. Everything will be functioning fine and then the speed of my vehicle is inhibited and it is hard to accelerate. It is very difficult to get from 40 mph up to 50 mph. On slight curves, not always, it will beep and the slip indicator light comes on and will apply the brakes on what feels like one side. This has happened at 35-60 mph. The slip indicator will beep sometimes until I decrease my speed to under 25 mph. I took it into a reputable tire and front end shop and they replaced a wheel bearing with sensor, and 2 front tires. The problem happened again within 5 miles and the shop said I need to take it to Toyota dealer to have it the steering angle sensors recalibrated. The Toyota dealership said that this is something that the vehicle does itself. They inspected it and took it for a test drive and said nothing is wrong. The problem happened again within a few miles of leaving the dealership. I have read countless forums of people experiencing the same thing in their Toyota Sienna and having the dealership telling them there is not a problem. I have also found that the solution could very well be worn rack and pinion bushings that are creating the play that are triggering the sensors. I don't think they gave it a proper inspection. This is a very dangerous problem, and even more so when the dealership is saying there isn't a problem. I am feeling very lost on what to do with my van right now. I have spent $1100 and 3 days of my time with the same thing happening. I.