2001 Toyota Previa problems

General information about Toyota-Previa
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list

The Toyota Previa, also known as the Toyota Estima (Japanese: トヨタ・エスティマ, Hepburn: Toyota Esutima) in Japan, and Toyota Tarago in Australia, is a minivan that was produced by Toyota from 1990 until October 2019 across three generations.

The name "Previa" is derived from the Spanish for "preview", as Toyota saw the first Previa as a vehicle that would preview technologies used in future minivans. The Previa was the second largest minivan in Toyota's lineup in Japan after the bigger and more luxurious Alphard/Vellfire.

First generation (XR10/XR20; 1990)

The first generation, designed by Toyota designer Tokuo Fukuichi and Calty designer David Doyle in 1987 (patent filed 24 December 1987), was introduced on 27 January 1990, and had only one sliding side door for the rear passengers. It featured a mid-engined platform, where the inline-four cylinder gasoline-powered engine was installed almost flat (at a 75-degree angle), beneath the front seats.

Installing the engine in this configuration allowed moderately easy access to the spark plugs, which were located underneath a panel on the mid right-side of the vehicle, after removing the front right seat, the carpet and an access panel.

All of the engine-driven accessories, such as the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor and radiator fan, are accessible from the front hood and are driven by an accessory driveshaft on the front of the engine. This method received the name Supplemental Accessory Drive System, or "SADS". Placing these items in front allowed the designers to achieve an even front/rear weight distribution, which benefits ride quality and handling. However, it also prevented the installation of a larger engine, and meant that the design and development costs could not be mitigated by sharing the platform with other vehicles.

The first generation Previa was 4,750 mm (187.0 in) long and 1,800 mm (70.9 in) wide. In Japan, two smaller versions, the Toyota Estima Lucida and Toyota Estima Emina, were produced from January 1992, which were approximately 110 mm (4.3 in) narrower and 70 mm (2.8 in) shorter than the standard model. The original design continued to be sold in Japan, but became known as the "wide-body" Estima.

The reason that the smaller Emina and Lucida models were developed is the vehicle tax system in Japan, which is based on the product of the length and width of the car; the smaller variants fall into a lower tax band. The Estima Emina and Estima Lucida were also available with a 2.2-liter diesel engine (3C-T and 3C-TE). In Japan, the Estima and Estima Emina were exclusive to the dealerships called Toyota Store. The Estima Lucida sold at Toyota Corolla Store dealerships. The two received small redesigns in 1994 and a facelift in 1996.

The first generation Previa was available in both rear- and all-wheel drive versions (called All-Trac) and powered by a 135 PS (99 kW) JIS four-cylinder 2.4-liter fuel injection engine. Available with a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual gearbox, this Previa also seated seven or eight people, with three seating configurations offered (North America only received the seven passenger configurations, however).

All configurations have a driver and front passenger seat forward, and a three-seat bench seat at the rear that splits and folds flat against the sides of the cabin. The eight-seat configuration contains a 2/1 split swiveling bench seat in the middle row, while the seven-seat configurations contain either two independently swiveling captain's chairs (referred to as "Quad Seating"), in the middle row or a two-seat bench offset towards the driver's side. The third row is better upholstered in the seven-seat version.

The Previa was available with either four-wheel disc brakes or traditional front disc/rear drum brake setup, with anti-lock brakes (ABS) as an option.

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Common 2001 Toyota Previa problems

The Toyota Previa 2001, also known as the Toyota Estima in some markets, is a popular minivan known for its spacious interior, comfort, and reliability. However, like any vehicle, it can experience certain issues over time. Here are some common problems reported by Toyota Previa 2001 owners, based on the search results:

Engine misfires: An engine misfire is often caused by worn-out spark plugs, a weak fuel injector, or a vacuum leak. This issue can lead to poor fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and a rough-running engine. If you suspect an engine misfire, it's best to have your vehicle inspected at a Toyota service center as soon as possible. A trained technician can determine the root cause and recommend the appropriate repair.

Transmission problems: Transmission issues are common in many vehicles, including the Toyota Previa 2001. Some of the most common automatic transmission problems include slipping gears, overheating, and difficulty shifting. These issues can be caused by low transmission fluid levels, worn-out clutch plates, or a faulty transmission control module. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic.

Electrical issues: Electrical problems can range from minor issues, such as a blown fuse, to more complex problems, such as a faulty sensor or wiring. These issues can affect various vehicle functions, including the engine, transmission, and dashboard indicators. If you suspect an electrical problem, it's best to have your vehicle inspected by a professional.

Fuel system issues: Fuel system problems, such as insufficient fuel pressure or blocked airflow, can prevent the engine from starting or cause it to run poorly. These issues can be caused by a faulty fuel pump, clogged fuel injectors, or a dirty air filter. Regular maintenance, such as changing the fuel filter and air filter, can help prevent these issues.

It's important to note that while these issues are common, they are not necessarily universal. Many Toyota Previa 2001 owners have reported trouble-free ownership experiences, and regular maintenance can help prevent many of these issues from occurring. If you're experiencing any of these problems, it's best to consult a professional mechanic or a Toyota service center for diagnosis and repair.

What is the common problem of Toyota Previa?

A common issue on the Previa is for the arm rests to become loose. When they become very loose, they will not stand up when you try to move them out of the way. Instead they will fall straight back down.

Is Toyota Previa a reliable car?

I have owned 2 Previa's and I put 180,000 miles on the first one and more than 200,000 on the second one which I still drive every day. Both were extremely reliable and other than a battery, brakes, tires and oil changes, you'll never have to worry about anything. I wish they still made them today.

How many miles will a Toyota Previa last?

247,000mi

What is Toyota Previa lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Toyota Previa is 247,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.

Why did Toyota discontinue the Previa?

The Previa was considered too small and too underpowered to compete with the much bigger and cheaper Chrysler minivans, and so Toyota stopped selling it in the United States and went to the very competent but basically unoriginal Sienna.

What is the common problem of Toyota Previa?

Previa is a minivan with sliding rear side doors. More expensive modifications were equipped with electric sliding doors on older machines it is recommended to check their performance. After five

Is Toyota Previa a reliable car?

How long can a Toyota Previa last?

It's a great car,very reliable, durable, dependable and are known to last at least 300,000 miles on same tranny and engine.

Why did Toyota discontinue the Previa?

2001 Toyota Previa car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Previa problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Suspension problems
Tires problems
Service brakes problems
Hydraulic problems
Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Toyota Previa vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2001 Toyota Previa complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Toyota Previa.

2003-06-19

SUSPENSION,TIRES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2003-06-19
Components: SUSPENSION,TIRES
Summary: THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE FRONT TIRES .WHILE ON WARRANTY VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TWICE TO THE DEALER, AND DEALE RRE[PLACED TIRES AND PART OF THE SUSPENSION., PREMATURE WORN TIRE. NOW VEHICLE IS OUT OF WARRANTY, AND PREMATURE WORN TIRES STILL OCCUR. *AK

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2001-11-21

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2001-10-19
VIN: 5TDZT34A71S
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: IN 4 MONTHS MY NEW CARS FRONT BRAKES WEARED OUT WITH 4500 MILES, WITH LOT OF FIGHTS WITH MY DEALERSHIP THEY FIXED IT FOR FREE AND I HAVE A COUSIN WHO HAS THE SAME CAR WITH SAME PROBLEM AND GLENDALE TOYOTA FIXED HIS FOR FREE TOO, GLENDALE TOYOTA TOLD MY COUSIN THAT THEY ARE GETTING LOT OF PROBLEMS WITH THIS CARS FRONT BRAKES GOING OUT TO SOON AND TOYOTA MOTOR CO. IS TRING TO KEEP IT QUIT SO YOU NHTSA DOES NOT KNOW ABOUT THIS PROBLEM.*AK

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2001-08-27

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2001-06-01
VIN: 5TDBT48A31S
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: THE PASSENGER SEATBELT IN THE MIDDLE SEAT RATCHETS TIGHT AND LOCKS FOR NO REASON AND WILL NOT RELEASE UNLESS THE BELT IS UNBUCKLED AND RETUNED TO THE RESTING POSITION. THIS HAS HAPPENED BOTH DURING HIGHWAY AND LOCAL DRIVING. THE MANUFACTURER HAS REPLACED THE BELT AND THE PROBLEM STILL OCCURS. THE VEHICLE WAS LOOKED AT BE THEIR FIELD REP. WHO COULD NOT REPLICATE THE PROBLEM AND TOLD ME THEY WOULD NOT REPLACE THE BELT AGAIN, AS THEY DEEMED IT FUNCTIONING. THE BELT LOCKED AGAIN ON MY CHILD AND I DROVE STRAIGHT TO THE DEALERSHIP TO SHOW THEM THE PROBLEM, WHICH THEY AGREED WAS A PROBLEM. THE MANUFACTURER IS SENDING ANOTHER TECHNICAL REPRESENTATIVE TO LOOK AT THE BELT, BUT WILL NOT REPLACE THE BELT UNTIL THEY CAN FIND THE PROBLEM. I WILL NO LONGER ALLOW MY CHILD TO SIT IN THE SEAT. TOYOTA'S OFFICE IN CALIFORNIA HAS BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM (CASE # 200108070617) BUT THEY HAVE NOT SENT FOR THE ORIGINAL DEFECTIVE BELT AS OF 8.27.01. IT REMAINS IN FAIRLAWN, NJ. THE REPRESENTATIVE ASKED ME WHAT I WOULD LIKE THEM TO DO. I WANT IS A RELIABLE SEATBELT THAT DOES NOT STRANGLE MY CHILD (WHO IS 9 YEARS OLD).*AK

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2001 Toyota Previa problems:

'91 Previa Common Issues? | Toyota Nation Forum

https://www.toyotanation.com/threads/91-previa-common-issues.1224521/

Oct 18, 2015 ... '91 Previa Common Issues? · 1. Head gasket. If your headgasket survives, a previa could last you hundreds of thousands of miles more. · 2.

Q&A: Toyota Previa 1996 Overheating Problem - Solutions & Fixes

https://www.justanswer.com/toyota/6ehs0-toyota-previa-dlx-1996-toyota-previa-overheating-problem.html

Mar 18, 2012 ... toyota Previa DLX: 1996 toyota previa with overheating problem ... common known issues with this vehicle that could be causing this problem?

Previa 2001 Misfire problem - Toyota Alphard/ Vellfire / Estima ...

https://www.toyotaownersclub.com/forums/topic/182082-previa-2001-misfire-problem/

Jan 25, 2018 ... My 2001 VVTI Previa (petrol) with 160000 miles on the clock is misfiring. The garage has changed the coils and spark plugs but the problem ...

Overdrive issues

https://www.toyotavantech.com/forum/showthread.php?330-Overdrive-issues

Mar 1, 2011 ... I'm having problems with it kicking into overdrive and I talked to a local toyota mechanic and he said, the thermo is stuck open so the ...