Toyota Venza Years to Avoid – If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile crossover SUV, the Toyota Venza is definitely worth considering. Since its introduction in 2009, the Venza has become a popular choice for families and individuals who want a comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and great fuel economy.
However, not all Toyota Venza models are created equal.
In this article, we’ll explore the best and worst years of the Toyota Venza and provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.
Best Years of Toyota Venza
If you’re looking for a Toyota Venza that’s reliable, affordable, and packed with features, these are the years you should consider.
2013 Toyota Venza
The 2013 Toyota Venza is widely regarded as one of the best years of this crossover SUV. It boasts a roomy and comfortable interior, excellent fuel economy, and a smooth and quiet ride.
The 2013 Venza is also equipped with standard features like a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual-zone climate control.
2015 Toyota Venza
The 2015 Toyota Venza is another great option if you’re looking for a reliable and well-equipped crossover SUV. It offers plenty of space for passengers and cargo and comes standard with a range of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth connectivity.
The 2015 Venza also has excellent fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
2016 Toyota Venza
The 2016 Toyota Venza is the last year of production for this popular crossover SUV. It offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, excellent fuel economy, and a smooth and quiet ride.
The 2016 Venza is also equipped with a wide range of standard features, including a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 6.1-inch touchscreen display.
Toyota Venza Years to Avoid
While the Toyota Venza is generally a reliable and well-built vehicle, there are some model years that you should avoid due to mechanical issues or safety concerns.
2009 Toyota Venza
The 2009 Toyota Venza is the first year of production for this crossover SUV, and unfortunately, it’s also one of the worst. Many owners have reported issues with the transmission, including slipping gears and hard shifting.
The 2009 Venza has a lower-than-average reliability rating from J.D. Power.
2010 Toyota Venza
The 2010 Toyota Venza is another year to avoid due to reported issues with the transmission. In addition to transmission problems, owners have also reported issues with the brakes, suspension, and electrical system.
The 2010 Venza has a reliability rating of just 2.5 out of 5 from J.D. Power.
2011 Toyota Venza
The 2011 Toyota Venza is another year that has been plagued by mechanical issues. Owners have reported problems with the transmission, suspension, and engine, as well as issues with the paint and body.
The 2011 Venza has a below-average reliability rating from J.D. Power, making it a risky choice for used car buyers.
Common Issues With Toyota Venza
While some Toyota Venza models have been known to have mechanical issues, there are also some common problems that owners have reported across multiple model years. These include:
1. Air Conditioning Problems
Many Toyota Venza owners have reported issues with the air conditioning system, including a lack of cool air, a foul odor, and compressor failure.
These problems can be costly to repair, so it’s important to have the air conditioning system inspected regularly to catch any potential issues early.
2. Brake Problems
Several Toyota Venza owners have reported problems with the brakes, including premature wear and tear and difficulty stopping the vehicle.
It’s important to have the brakes inspected regularly and replace any worn or damaged components promptly to ensure your safety on the road.
3. Electrical Problems
Some Toyota Venza owners have reported issues with the electrical system, including problems with the power windows, locks, and keyless entry system.
These problems can be difficult to diagnose and repair, so it’s important to have them addressed by a qualified mechanic.
4. Transmission Problems
As we mentioned earlier, some Toyota Venza models have been plagued by transmission problems, including slipping gears and hard shifting.
If you experience any issues with the transmission, it’s important to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Tips for Buying A Used Toyota Venza
If you’re considering purchasing a used Toyota Venza, there are a few tips you should keep in mind to ensure that you’re getting a reliable and safe vehicle.
1. Do your research
Before purchasing a used Toyota Venza, do your research to find out which model years have the best track record for reliability and safety.
You can find this information by checking consumer reports, online forums, and automotive websites.
2. Inspect the vehicle thoroughly
When inspecting a used Toyota Venza, look for signs of wear and tear, including scratches, dents, and rust. You should also check the brakes, suspension, and tires for signs of damage or wear.
3. Check the vehicle history report
Before purchasing a used Toyota Venza, be sure to check the vehicle history report to ensure that it has not been in any accidents or had any major repairs.
You can obtain a vehicle history report from a third-party provider like Carfax or AutoCheck.
4. Take it for a test drive
Finally, take the Toyota Venza for a test drive to get a feel for its performance and handling. Pay attention to how the vehicle shifts, brakes, and handles on the road, and be sure to test all of the features and systems, including the air conditioning, infotainment system, and safety features.
How reliable is the Toyota Venza?
The Toyota Venza is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle. Some model years may have more reliability issues than others, such as the 2009 and 2010 model years. It’s important to research the specific year and model you are interested in and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase.
Is Venza longer than RAV4?
Yes, the Toyota Venza is longer than the Toyota RAV4. The 2021 Toyota Venza has a length of 186.6 inches, while the 2021 Toyota RAV4 has a length of 180.9 inches.
Which is better Camry or Venza?
The Camry and Venza are different types of vehicles, with the Camry being a midsize sedan and the Venza being a crossover SUV. The choice between the two depends on personal preferences and needs. The Camry is more fuel-efficient and has a lower starting price, while the Venza has more cargo space and a higher ride height for better visibility on the road.
How does Venza compare to Highlander?
The Toyota Venza is a smaller and more affordable option than the Toyota Highlander. While both are crossover SUVs, the Highlander has a larger interior, higher towing capacity, and more powerful engine options. The Venza has better fuel efficiency, a sleeker design, and a more comfortable and refined interior.
What is special about Toyota Venza?
The Toyota Venza is known for its combination of practicality, comfort, and style. It has a spacious and well-appointed interior with comfortable seating, a smooth ride, and impressive fuel efficiency. It also offers advanced safety features such as Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
The Venza is also one of the few vehicles in its class to offer a hybrid powertrain option, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.
Conclusion
In summary, the Toyota Venza is a reliable and versatile crossover SUV that can provide you with a comfortable ride and ample cargo space. Not all Toyota Venza models are created equal, and there are some years that you should avoid due to mechanical issues or safety concerns.
By following our tips for buying a used Toyota Venza and doing your research, you can find a reliable and safe vehicle that will provide you with years of enjoyment and dependability.