NHTSA Complaint #11426247 — 2012 TOYOTA SIENNA

Vehicle began 'whirring' metal noise from underneath. Local mechanic said it was coming from rear differential. I took it to a Toyota dealer, they said rear differential coupler needs replacing ($2159) and drive shaft ($992). It seems the bearing ring inside this sealed unit has failed. Noise is continuous while driving, concern of part failure - we are taking vehicle on family vacation. Researching on - line it appears to be common problem with the Sienna's. Toyota had same issue with RAV 4's and issued recall but have not for the Sienna's. I called Toyota corporate in TX (got up 3 levels) to no avail, and it curt tone, they said they cannot help. Based on other similar stories on line from other Sienna owners, this seems to be a common very expensive design flaw problem with this vehicle.