7 Toyota Estima Hybrid Problems

Are you familiar with Toyota Estima Hybrid problems?

The Toyota Estima has existed in three models from 1990 to the present day. The first production was the TCR generation, which lasted from 1990 until 2000. The second generation is the ACR/MCR/AHR, whose production was from 2000 to 2006. Lastly, the production of the third generation, ACR/GSR, has been from 2006 to the present [1].

The Toyota Estima Hybrid was the world’s first hybrid minivan introduced in the market in 2001, showing new promise for hybrid vehicles.

The Toyota Estima Hybrid is a popular choice among families and lone drivers in Japan who are looking for a dependable and effective vehicle.

Both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions of the hybrid powertrain are available, and varieties of trim options are available [2].

There may be problems, though, just like with any other car. The Toyota Estima Hybrid has experienced common problems, including recurrent battery drain, loud engine noise, transmission issues, and issues with the electric motor.

Always get a professional mechanic who can effectively examine your car if you encounter any of these problems.

The vehicle can break down because of these problems, which are expensive to solve. Always check with your dealer first to verify if the problem is under warranty.

If you have problems with your Toyota Estima Hybrid, please read this common problems and solutions article. 

Most Common Toyota Estima Hybrid Problems

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  1. Stalling

The Toyota Estima Hybrid’s tendency to stall is one of its most prevalent faults. The car may experience this while idle or while in motion. Sometimes the vehicle may stall suddenly, which is extremely dangerous.

The initial action you should take if your automobile stalls are to check the battery; a dead battery might have caused the issue.

To confirm if that is the problem, check the alternator to verify that the battery is in good condition. The car can be stalling if the alternator is not functioning properly.

The best advice is to take your vehicle to a mechanic, preferably if you cannot pinpoint the problem’s underlying cause. They will be capable of diagnosing the problem and fixing it. [3]

  1. Battery Draining Quickly

The battery pack is one of the essential parts of the Toyota Estima Hybrid. A flat or faulty battery pack will cause your vehicle to lose power and eventually stop running. The battery can last up to 10 years, but it is common to have it replaced after only a few years.[4].

The Estima Hybrid has many electrical components, and the battery is to power them. Therefore, battery draining quickly is a common problem with the Toyota Estima Hybrid. It can be a major problem, as it can mean that the car will not start if the battery runs out of power.

One possibility will be that the car uses more power than it should, and another cause is a problem with the charging system.

If you have this problem, mechanics can fix it and ensure they replace and recondition the battery pack and supply natural rubber buses and new brakes anytime you replace it.

  1. Noisy Engine

Another issue with the Toyota Estima Hybrid is that the engine is extremely noisy, or the exhaust system is having problems. It could be a major issue because it could cause the engine to seize up. There are many causes for a noisy engine in the Toyota Estima hybrid.

Some possible reasons could be a loose or damaged engine belt, faulty engine timing, or a problem with the engine itself [5]. If the noise is continuous, it is best to have the vehicle checked by a qualified mechanic to identify and resolve the issue.

  1. Electric motor Issues

Another critical component of the vehicle is the electric motor. Some Toyota Estima Hybrid owners have reported electrical system problems. This may result from a faulty battery, a problem with the electric motor itself, or a problem with the hybrid system [6].

Such causes the car not to start or the lights not to work properly. The electrical system of a hybrid vehicle is extremely complicated and can be one of the most expensive systems to replace if it fails.

  1. Braking Issues

Another prevalent issue observed with the Toyota Estima Hybrid is braking troubles. One possibility is that the brake pads are tattered and need replacement. Another possibility is that the brake fluid is low.

Additionally, there may be an issue with the brake calipers or other braking system components. Some owners have complained that the brakes are “spongy” or take longer to stop the vehicle than they should. When used, the brakes may even generate a screaming noise in some circumstances.

  1. Transmission issues

The protective layer that the transmission fluid coats the metal components help lower friction, polish their surfaces and keep them cool. This layer of protection will help extend the life of your car and improve its performance.

However, the transmission is prone to failure because it delivers power from the engine and electric motor to the wheels. Due to the high expense of the fluid, routine transmission fluid changes are also useful. It is usually less expensive to invest in lubricating the transmission than replacing every component due to wear.

  1. Suspension Issues

The suspension is another crucial component of the Toyota Estima Hybrid. Unfortunately, some owners have reported problems with the suspension system.

For instance, some say their car feels “bouncy” or “sagging” in the rear. Once you identify this problem, take your vehicle to the mechanic for a checkup to resolve the issue immediately.

Toyota Estima Hybrid Battery Life

Most hybrid manufacturers claim that a battery pack will typically last 100,000 kilometers [7]. Some owners can increase this figure even to 200,000 miles with appropriate care. Manufacturers anticipate that the maximum battery life will be around 100,000 miles, a normal warranty length.

The new hybrid battery pack’s basic specs are as follows:

  1. Voltage: 216 V–245 V.
  2. 21 to 30 batteries, on average.
  3. 45C discharge rate
  4. 6500 mAh battery capacity.
  5. Three years or 100,000 Miles of Warranty (whichever comes first) [8].

If your Toyota Estima hybrid battery exhibits any of the following symptoms, it may die. Charging problems, strange noises by the internal combustion engine, and the dashboard light is on.

Additionally, if fuel economy declines over time, your miles per gallon (MPG) worsens, it indicates that the battery is malfunctioning. Finally, it may indicate that your battery is not receiving a full charge or has a faster-than-average rate of charge loss.

Toyota Estima Hybrid Battery Range

According to the Japanese test cycle, this car has outstandingly low fuel consumption at the rate of 1 liter every 17-18.0 kilometers with a maximum power between 131 to 150ps. As a result, the Toyota Estima Hybrid rivals the fuel efficiency of compact cars.

It provides twice the fuel efficiency level imposed by the Japanese government in 2010. The average fuel consumption of Estima is about 23 mpg.

Related: Toyota CHR Hybrid Problems

Toyota Estima Hybrid Battery Cost and Warranty

The battery cost for a Toyota Estima Hybrid is $2900, including GST and installation. It is the same price for all Estima hybrids from 2006 to 2016. The battery comes with a warranty of 5 years or 100,000 km.

Moreover, the Toyota Estima Hybrid Re-manufactured battery costs around $3,150.00 and has 12 Months Warranty [9].

Since the warranty does not include the car battery pack, it will cost you much to replace it; it is a good idea always to test your battery pack.

Read Also: Toyota B Gear Explained

Conclusion

Toyota Estima Hybrid is a reliable and outstanding fuel-efficient car, but some problems can arise. The most common issues include the car stalling, the battery draining quickly, the engine being very noisy, the electric motor problems, and the transmission.

You must bring your vehicle to a mechanic to examine if you have any of these issues. These problems can be expensive and cause the car to break down. In some cases, this problem is covered under warranty, so check with your dealer first.

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