Two problems related to transmission solenoid have been reported for the 2006 Toyota Sienna. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2006 Toyota Sienna based on all problems reported for the 2006 Sienna.
Powertrain fails at 140,000 miles which is very unusual for Toyota [repair cost ~4000 quoted from dealer]. Also, there are plenty of electrical problems starts with failing actuators such as sliding door actuator [$~1500 quote from dealer], hvac air blend actuators [$~850 quote from dealer]and vehicle stability control solenoids [$~500 quote from local]. Please help us and others to shed some light on such kind of issues since it costs too much. In winter time when heater is not working.
Currently there is a recall out for the shift lock solenoid assembly in certain Toyota Sienna van models from 2004-2005 and 2007 to 2009. I own a 2005 Sienna le and have no problem with my shift lock solenoid. However, I have a 2006 Sienna le and upon shutting off the car after driving, I can move the automatic transmission selector out of park when the key is out of the ignition and the brake pedal is not depressed. This condition can happen 50 percent of the time and is quite reproducible on my van. I will be contacting Toyota USA today, but I thought it pertinent that your agency is aware of the problem as well. I have 3 small children, 2 of whom could easily take the car out of gear from a parked position. Thank you.