2021 TOYOTA VENZA Recalls, Complaints & Safety

Left side of my heated steering overheated and burned through the leather.

A large crack appeared on the windshield of my 2021 Toyota Venza. Due to this being a safety issue when driving the vehicle, so I looked into having it repaired by a local shop. When the Venza was taken to the repaired, the repair shop notified me that the issue didn't originate from a rock/chip. The issue was with the windshield or the windshield installation. After a quick Google search, it came to my attention that this is a frequent issue with this year and make. There are class action lawsuits about this issue. This needs to be addressed by Toyota.

Primary Control/Head Unit Failure - I can no longer access any of the electronic functions of the vehicle due to the computer screen failure. The back up camera works, but when the vehicle is in drive, it's nothing but a strobing light trying to connect. It's a safety concern most at night due to the constant strobe effect coming across the screen every 3 seconds. It draws your attention from the road and/or gives you the impression that something is coming to hit you from the passenger side. Yes, the vehicle has been inspected and diagnosed by Toyota. Toyota is unwilling to admit their head unit is faulty and want me, the consumer, to pay out of pocket for the parts and the labor. No, the failure happened without warning. One day it was working fine and the next it was frozen and then "dead" with this strobe effect.

This report covers 2 events for the same problem. The first occurred in the spring of 2025 and I did not document the date or time. The second one occurred on November 10, 2025 @ about 10:15 a.m. (1) Last spring my wife was driving the Venza up the street to our residence going a slow rate of speed. As she approached the house, she took her foot off on the gas and coasted toward the left curb so she could back into our driveway. At that point, car suddenly surged forward and accelerated toward the curb. My wife rapidly applied the brake and averted any problem. (2) The second event occurred on November 10, 2025 @ 10:15 a.m. My wife was starting to park at a parking lot in the Tanasbourne Town Center. She was going to back into a parking spot so she drove forward going slightly left. Then, with the car still in drive, the car surged forward. She quickly stepped on the brake and the car stopped abruptly. (She was angling the car and was about ready to stop and put the car in reverse when this happened) Again, with her quick response braking, she was able to avert hitting person or thing. As to which component or system failed, there appears to be a random malfunction of sensors or perhaps the CPU...something that is calling for full throttle when the gas petal is not pushed. The safety risk is possible harm to the driver, outside property, or the worse situation would be harm to pedestrians that might be in the way of the car. We have not been able to reproduce the problem. The same maneuvers have been repeated 100's of times without incident. As of this writing, the vehicle is being taken to the Toyota dealer to have the oil changed and at that time they will be asked to do a thorough inspection of the systems that might cause this, check for any recorded malfunctions, etc. To the best of our knowledge, there were no warning lamps or messages that appeared.

The infotainment system is not consistently working. It is the 12.5 screen-based system that enables the control of numerous features including air conditioning/heating, audio (all radio and satellite radio), backup camera feed, and map/gps display. I see that there is a recall for this system for some Toyota models, however I have not yet received a notification, and I am assuming that it is because my car is a 2021 model. Not having this display makes navigation difficult (as the screen will just turn off suddenly) and control of the cabin environment impossible (i.e. I struggle turning on the AC/Heat as I don't know what the temperature is set to). Why would my vehicle not be included in the recall? What can be done to get this fixed? I view this as a safey concern as all vehicle safety notifications are posted on the screen (which won't work), all of the systems that are controlled from the screen are not available, and the back up camera display won't work at times.

As I attempted to park in a stall in the parking garage, I turned the steering wheel to the right and aligned the vehicle in preparation to back into the stall. In the split second that I took my foot off the accelerator to put it on the brake pedal in preparation to switch gears, the vehicle surged forward rapidly. I slammed on the brake as hard as I could, fearful that it would hit the car in the stall ahead. Maybe that's an indication that the Emergency Braking System failed, too. I don't know whether it stopped me or me slamming on the brake, but I was within 18 inches of the vehicle in the stall ahead of me. It truly scared me, which is what caused me to search for whether this was a known issue for 2021 Venzas and found that others have had this issue occur.

The infotainment system has failed. It is the 12.5 screen-based system that enables the control of numerous features including air conditioning/heating, audio (all radio and satellite radio) and map/gps display. This system is the focus of a recall on this model car (newer versions) but the issue is the same for this year. Not having this display make navigation difficult, control of the cabin environment impossible. I wonder why this year vehicle was not included in the recall. I have ordered a replacement at a cost of $3,300. This began in May of 2025.

I am submitting this complain regarding my 2021 Toyota Venza, which has developed a serious defect involving the fuel system. Although my vehicle is fairly new, I began experiencing problems with the fuel door not opening properly. Initially, I could not access the fuel cap, which left me unable refuel in a timely manner. Soon after, I noticed additional fueling issues: while attempting to refuel, the gas pump would repeatedly shut off and stop the fueling process. After taking the vehicle for inspection, it was determined that the actuator responsible for controlling the fuel door and fueling system required complete replacement. I am concerned this defect represents more than just an inconvenience. Inability to open the fuel door or complete a fueling cycle can create dangerous situations - such as being stranded without fuel or blocking a fueling station. Additionally, if the actuator fails while in use, it could interfere with the proper venting of the fuel system. I have since learned that other Toyota Venza owners are experiencing the same problem with the actuator, suggesting this is not an isolated case but a potential widespread defect. I request that Toyota investigate this issue and that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration evaluate whether a safety recall or service campaign is warranted. 2021 Toyota Venza LE [XXX] 90,0000 Sincerely, [XXX] and [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

The rear tailgate is malfunctioning. I was told by dealer it is not covered under any warranty (even extended) this is something that has been reported by others and should be fixed. As well as having to repeatedly hit the lock or unlock buttons to actually work on the car before it works.

Indeed, I recently encountered a concerning issue with my 2021 Toyota Venza. The problem manifested in mid-July, during the process of preparing to enter my vehicle. To my dismay, the door refused to open. Despite my repeated attempts to use the keyless entry system, the door stubbornly remained closed. Consequently, I was compelled to resort to using my key fob, which presented its own challenges. While I would not typically express such frustration, the safety implications of this issue are significant and have become quite inconvenient for me. As a physically disabled individual, I rely on a scooter lift in the rear of my vehicle to facilitate my mobility. This lift allows me to walk to the front of the car while holding onto the side for stability, preventing potential falls. On the day in question, I slipped my hand behind the handle of the door to open it and it didn't work. When I attempted to activate the unlock button on my key fob, it failed to respond. Despite my repeated attempts to press the button at least ten times, it remained unresponsive. By this point, my legs had become increasingly weak, to the extent that I felt a slight loss of balance when using the key. As a physically disabled individual and of an advanced age, I am unable to stand for extended periods. Therefore, this issue has caused me considerable stress and emotional distress. Upon visiting my local Toyota dealer, I was informed that the repair would incur a cost of approximately $800, which I unfortunately lack the financial means to cover. Consequently, I contacted Toyota’s 800 number to inquire about any special financial hardship programs that might assist me in paying for this repair. Regrettably, I was informed that such programs were not available. This situation has become increasingly frustrating for me. I find it difficult to reconcile the fact that Toyota has a history of encountering numerous issues with various of its models.

The rear tailgate squeaking is non stop. Dealer says not covered under warranty however MANY people online complaint of the same issue. This should be fixed by the manufacturer . Manu dealerships say it will cost upwards of 1 thousand dollars

The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Venza. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, several unknown warning lights illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The contact stated that during the first failure, the vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed, however the diagnosis was unknown. The contact stated that during the second failure, the steering wheel warning light illuminated, the steering wheel became difficult to turn, and the accelerator and brake pedals seized. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle, and thirty seconds later, the vehicle operated as intended. The contact stated that during the third failure, the contact became aware that the fuel gauge was not operating properly. After refueling the vehicle, the fuel gauge warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer to be diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the battery needed to be replaced. The battery was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the buttons on her steering wheel and the infotainment system also failed to function as designed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 57,346.

I have an issues with the door on drivers side that won't unlock as much as I press the key fob it won't open its 2021 toyota Venza. I am physically disabled and I unable to stand for long. So that means I have to use my key to unlock my doors and I can't stand for too long I can tired and fall. And toyota knows of this issues and they refuse to fix and I don't think I should pay for something that they know has a defect. It's not fair.

I was involved in a no fault accident when an SUV slammed into the back of my Toyota Venza at full speed and pushed me into the left guardrail of the bridge we were driving on. Neither the front airbags or the driver (left) side airbags deployed.

Crash 1 injured

Spontaneous crack in the windshield without any external mechanixal force, such as rock, hale, or any other foreign body.

I bought this vehicle when new in 2021 and I started to see people complain about the quality of the windshield and how they were getting cracks from rocks on it. I’m [XXX] , and never had a windshield replaced in my life. After seeing people post this, I added windshield coverage to my car. Last year I had a rock hit my windshield and it cause a small star like crack. Right away I called the insurance company and was able to take care of it that day. Few days ago I hear another rock ding. Had nobody in front of me but think it was from the car on the side of me kicked it up. Some time passed and I saw the crack coming down the middle of the next morning it was even longer. From the top of the window down past my camera. I have an appointment for replacement this week. What I was reading seems to be true. Never in my life had I have this happen, had plenty of rocks hit my vehicles over the year. Never had one crack. I know they exist but seeing it form a lot of Venza owners tells you something. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

This morning, I noticed a crack on the windshield of my 2021 Toyota Venza. The car was parked outside in the cold, and it seems like there’s some issue with the Toyota windshields, as it cracked for no apparent reason.

Vehicle at operating temperature, running, in gear and at a stop. Making a left turn into traffic. I release the brake and apply the accelerator, the car rolls out into traffic but no power, I press more and more until it is 100% throttle, all the way to the floor. Then after about 5 seconds the vehicle moves forward. Complete loss of response/power for 5 seconds. Thankfully no traffic coming. This happens a second time with the same circumstances, different location. Press the accelerator, no response, sudden loss of all power, then after 5 seconds it responds. This time there is traffic coming to my driver's side at 50 MPH, I was trying to press harder but it wouldn't respond. There were no warning lights, MIL, sounds or messages. Toyota wants $169.99/hr plus tax to investigate.

Windshield cracked (apparently from the edge) during highway driving in normal conditions for no clear reason. The windshield has not yet been replaced but replacement is expected to be replaced in the week ending 1/11/25. Crack appears to start on the passenger side of middle, on the lower edge of the windshield. This area is behind the windshield wipers and is shielded by the hood. The crack extended upwards, then turned towards the drivers side. The Toyota dealer that sold the vehicle refused to inspect the damage because they do not work on glass. Toyota Brand Engagement, the name of the group that responded to a support request expressly stated that glass is not covered under warranty and there is no current recall on this vehicle. They finished their rejection of my request for help with a suggestion that my insurance should be engaged to repair the failure. I have not engaged my insurance carrier on this.

The Door lock actuators have all systematically failed on the car, so I can lock the doors manually, but anytime an electrical signal is sent to the lock (key fob, putting the car in drive, etc), the door locks do not operate. It is my understanding this is a known problem by Toyota across many SUV models. I have left my car unlocked on many occassions "thinking" it is locked, and I don't like driving with passengers in the car due to the safety issue of being able to open a door while the car is in motion when I "think" it is locked

With no impact, our windshield cracked. I see many, many other owners of 2021 and later Toyota Venza have had this happen to them. This is clearly a large problem, so I'm hoping that by reporting our incident you will be encouraged to investigate further. Please let me know if you need any additional information, but the key points are that there has been no impact to the windshield that we are aware of, and the windshield cracked while driving. Thank you for your attention t this matter.

Windshield broke for no reason.long Crack across bottom of Windshield.

Widshield cracked all of a sudden without any reason

I just purchased as 2021 Toyota Venza Limited. The headlight on low beam cast a odd shaped shadow. It is very distracting and often makes you think something is in front of the car. The issue dissappears when headlight are switched to high beam. This is very unsafe and deserves a recall.

Windshield has severe cracking without being struck by anything

Adding to the many complaints about the '21 Venza windshield and the safety issues presented by the easy cracking of the front windshield.

I was driving and my windshield just cracked . Nothing struck my windshield before incident happened

Head lights! Dangerous. They have blind-spots due to equipment blocking full light vision. This is my 2nd report to you. I have not gotten a response. I think this should be looked into immediately. I don't care to drive at night because of this blind-spot. Yes, I have reported this to Toyota and they could not do anything about it because they it from the new type of light bulbs. Please review, research and respond. Thank you.

Seems like, This is common problems for all the Toyota Venza Car. After stopping at redlight, If we push the accelerator, It doesn't have a pickup speed as mentioned 7.1 sec from 0-60 miles. If, car is take on the 45/55 mile from the local road, it may hit by back side of the car. This is really concerning. Working with the dealer to solve the issue.

Hit by a very small rock. Started with a small fracture about 8 inches long and after 8 hours the crack has multiplied to be about 16-18 inches.

The front glass (windshield) on the passenger side was broken; I got into the car, I turned it on and suddenly I heard a loud clicking noise and dirt came out from the top to the middle, disgonally, I emphasize the car was not moving.

Vehicle parked safe place. When I returned to the vehicle Windscreen at a large crack.

Intermittently my 2021 Toyota Venza will not accelerate. It feels like it loses power and will not accelerate. It started in March and has progressively gotten worse. It happens from a stop and from rolling acceleration. Toyota dealer Fred Haas Toyota said "they cannot duplicate the problem" even though I told them to go look online since this seems to be an ongoing problem. I do not feel safe in this vehicle since I cannot depend on it accelerating when I engage the fuel pedal.

I was driving down the freeway and my windshield unexpectedly cracked. I was not struck by a rock or other object, it cracked out of nowhere.

a small rockchip hit the windshield and caused a crack which quickly began to grow at an alarming rate. the crack grew to about the size of half the windshield in a one day time. The windshield is very surprisingly fragile.

HUGE crack developed suddenly in windshield. This is the third repair I have had to make. This windshield seems to crack easily - even the slightest hit damages the windshield. With this crack I can feel the separation in the glass. It’s dangerous. Doing a simple internet search reveals this as a known issue.

When accelerating from a stopped position, the car fails to go forward. This incident has occurred six times and often seems to be at the worst times, such as pulling into a busy road from a stop sign. The car will start to accelerate and stop with no response from the gas pedal for 3-5 seconds. There have almost been a couple of accidents with this vehicle because of this issue. No check engine light or any light at all came on in the car when this incident occurred. This vehicle has been taking to the dealership and the problem has been mentioned to them, however with no codes to read for the OBDII they claim there is nothing they can do about it.

I have been driving this car for over a year and have not had any impact, collision or any kind of accident. Last week I noticed a crack around the windshield. I starts from the bottom, up towards the middle and arcs toward the driver side. There is no point of contact or any indication that a small/tiny rock fell on it. At first I thought it was a rain drop that rolled down on the windshield but after cleaning both inside and outside, I realized it was a crack.