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2007 Toyota Sienna XLE needs $4k work. Should I fix it or buy something else?


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drmroth
New User

Aug 1, 2012, 9:47 AM

Post #1 of 3 (2050 views)
post icon 2007 Toyota Sienna XLE needs $4k work. Should I fix it or buy something else? Sign In

I currently own a 2007 Toyota Sienna XLE and I'm wondering if it pays for me to fix this car or buy a newer used car.

The van has 59k miles and, I was told by Toyota, would be worth $14,500.00 if I were to trade it in (KBB says about $16k for trade-in, $19k for private sale). If I decide to keep it I would need to put in $4k and I don't know if it pays.

It would need;
New Seat Heater ECU $415 (there's a short in the seat which causes it to be very hot all the time)
Power Steering & Rack Pinion Leaking Passenger Side $1190
Power Steering Flush $100
Alignment with Gear $ $90
Rear Brakes $230
New Tires $752
60K mile Service $190
Healthy Air AC Service $90
Left Mirror $650 (the motor runs but the mirror doesn't work)


Does it pay to fix it, or should I trade it in and get a newer used car? I don't have an extended warranty and I'm afraid that if I do decide to fix it that I may have to put in a lot more money over the next couple of years.

Thank you in advance for your help.



DIYfrvr
User

Aug 1, 2012, 10:15 AM

Post #2 of 3 (2040 views)
Re: 2007 Toyota Sienna XLE needs $4k work. Should I fix it or buy something else? Sign In

I dont know anything in particular about the Sienna but these three arent items that should go out at 59k miles on a fairly new car. So whats to say that they wont go bad in the next car you buy - it might have its own set of problems.
New Seat Heater ECU $415 (there's a short in the seat which causes it to be very hot all the time)
Power Steering & Rack Pinion Leaking Passenger Side $1190
Left Mirror $650 (the motor runs but the mirror doesn't work)

As for the remaining below, these are just maintenace items that any car will need. You can save a bit by doing a DIY. For example, rear brakes would cost half that and a power steering drain and refill would be just cost of fluid - 10 bucks or less. 60k service is probably just oil and lubing some parts and visual inpsection. Should be less than 50 bucks.
Power Steering Flush $100
Alignment with Gear $ $90
Rear Brakes $230
New Tires $752
60K mile Service $190
Healthy Air AC Service $90

So unless you plan to buy a new car that is completely basic, I think its luck of the draw.
It would help to hear how long you've had this car and if you have a use for a minivan. I dont think maintenance alone should warrant replacing a used car with another used car.

Especially if you are first owner, see if Toyota USA will good-will the rack and pinion. Doubtful but worth a shot. As for seat heater, see if you can disconnect a fuse to turn off the heater permanently. And the mirror can be adjusted by pressing on the glass directly. Not sure why its 650$. Is there labor in that quote? Shouldnt be more than 30 minutes.

Again, my knowledge of Siennas is limited so take all this with a grain of salt.


Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Tom Greenleaf profile image

Aug 1, 2012, 11:04 AM

Post #3 of 3 (2023 views)
Re: 2007 Toyota Sienna XLE needs $4k work. Should I fix it or buy something else? Sign In

Prices and what is mandatory if kept or just do without is all up to you. Trading for used I question. For new shop around for the best value for it towards what you want if a possibility for you.

Do your homework and decide if you want to keep this till it's last legs or keep trading up. Can't make that call for you,

T







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