We own a 2018 Toyota Sienna
We own a 2018 Toyota Sienna with less than 15,000 miles. Shortly after we purchased the vehicle we experienced the jerking (similar to letting the clutch out on a standard vehicle too fast without giving it enough gas) and power loss that most have experienced. Concerned, we brought the vehicle to the service department of the dealership that we purchased the vehicle from. We explained the problem, and received several inadequate responses. The service department told us it was the 8-speed transmission shifting to save fuel. They told us the problem was bad tires and replaced all four. They told us the electronics control unit commonly lags in response and were advised to step on the gas to wake it up. All answers, in my opinion, intended to push us along. My wife and I are not mechanics. That said, we were not born yesterday. We knew the problem was related to a lack of fuel and/or air. When we found out about the recall (through news/media sources first), we had our aha moment. Shortly after (March 12th), we brought the vehicle in for its 15,000 mile service and requested the recall repair. The vehicle has been sitting in the dealership's parking lot ever since and I have been in a noncomparable rental (paid by Toyota). As weeks passed I heard little from the dealership. I contacted them several times, but their answer was always the same, replacement part not available. Out of growing frustration I contacted big Toyota and requested information. I learned that the replacement part would likely arrive in late June (months away at the time). Given this timeline I pushed for a buy back of the vehicle. I was told Toyota does not have a direct buy back program and they recommended I pursue the Lemon Law. I moved forward and provided them with a bit of information to assess the possibility. They responded with a lack luster written response. The response stated "We are unable to offer the assistance you have requested at this time" and "We understand you are uncomfortable driving your vehicle." My interpretation of these statements, Toyota is unwilling to accept responsibility for the inconvenience or for the safety concerns. I have considered filing a consumer complaint with the Maryland Attorney General, but at this point I am worn down by the situation and am looking forward to a June repair (maybe). One other thing I would like to mention. Toyota did not acknowledge the problem with Toyota vehicles until after the lawsuit was filed in NY against Lexus. Telling and very concerning.