Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Two days ago I removed all my seats in my 2023 Sienna XLE to get it ready for full-time van life. I must admit it was nerve wreaking, and I was so nervous when I unplugged the 2nd-row seats. Thanks to you and your simulators, all is well, and I have no airbag errors. I will brag about you for the rest of my life!!!
An inexpensive solution to protect yourself and cargo from the exposed carriage rails is to cover them with a section of foam pipe insulation, like the kind used to insulate hot water pipes. It already has a seam/split so you can just slide it over the top!
Thanks Brad, many salesmen should share their commission with you. You have finally offer the proven answer that holds back many potential buyers who want to have the option to remove these two seats even though they won't be latch on/off. Again, great contribution!
Agree!! This was the Single most reason for me not getting this van!! Im coming from an 2009 Odyssey and it went completely flat and still is my cargo hero better hen the wifes SUV! I wish Toyota redesigns this for weekend warrior dads who need to load up a kid for college or loading drywall and building supplies! It would be great to get remove those post from the guide rails. faster. Right now the Oddy can have both seats out in 3 min!
Uhh yes and no... Most minivan owners do not remove their second row often if ever. While I agree its annoying, they did it for a reason - and its not a deal breaker for most
The non-removable second row was a deal breaker for me. What was Toyota thinking? Now that I see they are removable I am reconsidering buying one. Thanks for the vid! Awesome!
Agree - Total deal-breaker! But after watching this, NOW I KNOW there's no f-ing way I'd consider dealing w/ this nonsense. When you need the 2nd row gone, you usually need it gone relatively fast (furniture, bikes, wood, etc). I'm not going to spend half a day doing this BS.
@@w650dave1 Shouldn't take any more than 25-30 minutes. You'd spend a lot more time than that sitting in the waiting room at the dealership while a Pacifica is repaired over the years.
There are so many long-winded, lame "how to" videos on UA-cam. This video is EXCELLENT. Long time Sienna owner, furious for this design down-grade but your video shows we can circumvent Toyota's poor design flaw. Also, production values are exceptional. Really, top notch. Many thanks.
I was seriously thinking about buying a 2024 Sienna to use as a camper conversion WHEN we travel. But once I found out the 2nd row seats are now non-removable ...I was ready to cancel the deal. I am a 75yoa DIYer who now plans to go forward with my plans. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!!
Thanks for your video on how to. I just removed my seats, and I would have bought your resistors, but, I snagged a few on amazon before I saw your video. I zipped tied the cables to the track. Now a video on how to remove the third row put in a floor sink toilet! LOL
Nice video, Brad. The non-movable middle row is a deal breaker for me so it's nice to know there's a procedure to bypass Toyota's really poor second row re-design. These seats seem like a huge pain to work with even when installed. They should be motorized. Anyway, thanks again.
@@marshaclifton1535 Removable in this case means the manufacturer designed it to be removed and restored easily by the customer, without special tools. Of course anything can be removed in that car with tools and enough time. The last body style on this van did have removable middle row seats and it was awesome.
I think that Sienna made the middle row "non-removable" due to the airbag connections. If it was done easily by the consumer, or recommended by the factory, Toyota could have liability issues when they either were set off accidentally, or not reconnected later, resulting in injury/death. But I agree, the seat removal and remaining track issue is the big fail in Siennas vs the Odyssey or Pacifica. But I'm still in the process of buying my 3rd Sienna - wouldn't trade for either of the other two.
Fits perfectly rear-facing in our truck, which has a slightly smaller back seats. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkx6_FKRYB2ClSPRyjcd8HptiCS3EiQoNX4 Feels as comfy and plush as our Graco Contender carseat
Not to me. Two things that get on my nerves is no hybrid v6 option and you can remove the seats in the middle row quick. This van will not sale like it used be because of those 2 things.
@@usarocksandyousuckifyoudon6971 the sienna is still the best hybrid and just like the prius, you can easily acces the battery to install your camping accessories and run the HVAC and many other appliances very efficiently
THANK YOU! I did the removal myself --successfully! I must have started and stopped your video 6 times but everything I ran into was covered. Thank you so much!
My confidence that those plastic tabs won’t snap after repeating this process 5-6 times? ZERO, absolutely zero. Really happy I saw this before settling into a Toyota. All this to get the van ready to head to the hardware store to load that new dishwasher (or whatever it may be)? Nope.
I've had so much stuff in the back of my sienna and have yet to need to remove the middle seats. The way they fold out of the way allows you to slide a 4x8 sheet of plywood in no problem. but do go on with all of your Hands-On knowledge
This is the second generation of Sienna like this. Siennas from 98-09 had a removable second row. It's likely a response to Stow 'n Go, since not everyone is physically able to carry a seat. I really like that my 04 8-seater has individual removable buckets in the second row. I can configure it as a 3 seat bench, 2 seat bench on either side or 2 captain's chairs.
@@questioner1596 Our ‘13 has an 8 passenger setup and the middle row comes out. It’s a absolute pain because the middle seat isn’t separate (nowhere near the ease of our 07’ Odyssey). This may be just for the latest generation.
@@jaywhite1850, while the middle row in those newer Siennas can be removed, it leaves the sliding base. I don't think Toyota expects people to remove the seats, since the seat bottom folds up and it slides forward. My '04 doesn't have the sliding track, so the seats are much simpler to remove. Also, the middle seat base isn't connected to one of the side seats like the newer vans.
@@questioner1596 Not sure I understand completely. You’re saying the new ‘21 (5th gen) seat separates from the base? That doesn’t make sense because of the airbags inside the seats. That’s why Toyota made the seats non-removable. I have the 4th gen and there’s no cradle/base.
@@jaywhite1850, I'm responding to you saying you have a '13 Sienna, and saying it's a newer Sienna than the 98-09s that didn't have the sliding tracks. The newest Siennas presumably have removable rear seats, just like I have unbolted and unplugged front seats from cars, but it's not meant to be easily removed by the customer (the 2010-20 Sienna's seats can also be unbolted from their bases, but not easily either). They are on sliding bases, just look at how the middle seat in the 2021 is a removable jump seat that clips into the sliding base of the seat next to it. I question your use of 5th generation for the 2021, because by my count there have been 4 generations of Sienna (98-03, 04-09, 10-20, 21+).
Brad, your video is AWESOME! You said it would take “ten minutes, if you know what you’re doing.” Well, clearly I don’t know what I’m doing. (I had to find a video to show me how to use a socket wrench.) This tool-challenged woman managed to get both seats out in 90 minutes. Your dongles work wonderfully well! When I had to reinstall a seat, it went much quicker (especially since I bought a socket adaptor for my drill). THANK YOU!!!
Thanks for showing what it would take if I ever bought one. I've been pondering trading up my 2020 Sienna to the new one. I knew of the non-removable seats which stopped me cold. Now that we have some instructions on how to do it, maybe I'd reconsider that the hybrid benefits would outway my seat removal scenarios which are less than 3 times a year.
Im with ya... I use it primarily for my giant scale radio controlled planes, so 2-3times a year at most would be re-installing them. The Honda sport odyssey is good but I do not need an overpowered 6 cylinder engine with 19/28 mpg compared to 36/36 mpg with sienna. I just wonder about accidentally touching something to activate the air bags... Hmmm? Thanks for this great video!!!
Thank you. We need more videos for this car model. There are very very few to watch and learn from Sienna 4th gen. For instance, you just mentioned how the Auto sliding doors reactivated after batt disconnection.
Pretty sad they chose this design. Non-removable 2nd row seats are a deal killer for me. Rarely do it, but it's one of the reasons for having a van. Nice video, but way too much hassle, and I wouldn't want to mess with airbag electronics, even if just unplugging.
Great video Brad. Can you please do a video on removing the 3rd row seats? I have no use for them and would rather have the large cargo hold which is available when the seats are not folded down. Thanks!
Thank you for creating this dongle for the airbag. I was skeptical as we were removing the 2nd row of a new (to me) 2021 Sienna that is about to have a conversion kit go in. Between your incredibly instructive video and this dongle, all is well with the van. I appreciate all the time and effort you took to make this video and device. Also, I would like to let you know that the conversion kit company suggested I use your product. Keep up the great work!
we just bought a 2020 used for this reason, the base model has no centre console and the 2nd row is removable (although it does leave some nasty rails). Good price on the 2020s with the 2021s coming out.
@@remyd8767 We have the 2021 now and love the centre console. As for getting to the back rows, it is just easier to open the door to get to the kids. We had three kids in the second row and it was fine.
Thank you, I just bought Sienna 2024 LE, I just realized that 2nd row seats are not removable. I learned from your video, I will truly to move the seats tomorrow.
Thank you for your excellent video. We just removed our 2nd row seats and used your dongles. Worked great. The computer thought the air bags were still there.
Everyone that was complaining you can’t remove the 2nd row forgot that someone at the factory bolted them in too. Thanks for the video, and how well done it was. Look forward to the ottoman conversion.
Everything in this video and follow-up with the purchased resistors worked (with ever so slight difference I could handle) with the LE trim package's different-but-same seats and tracks. They are gone and the van is fine with it. Thanks!
Did you get an answer? This was my next question but forgot. My Odyssey is my champion for this. She unfortunately is 2009 and although still good I think a change of vans is needed. Never owned a Toyota since my Tercel in High school! 300k+!!
@@captainamericaamerica8090 i agree it's probably better but not sure why everyone is hung up on timing belts vs chains vs what the actual vehicle does and handled. My mechanic tells me that's not 100% true about steel belts as he replaces them as well every so often. If you Google timing chain for a Sienna, they sell aftermarket ones and UA-cam Videos how to do it. They stretch over time apparently. Your key is regular oil changes. 👍💕 Then it will last longer!
Thank you sooo much! I just removed the seats to fit my dog crates in my 2024 Sienna. I would LOVE if you made a video about removing the rails!! Please please please do make a rail removal video! 🙌
I DO NOT LIKE 2021 SIENNA SEATS WILL NOT REMOVE LIKE THE PREVIOUS ONES, I HOPE THEY CHANGE BACK TO OLDER TECHNOLOGY. TOYOTA WE NEED TO REMOVE OUR SEATS WITHOU ANY TROUBLE, THIS CAUSE A LOT PROBLEMS!!!
My salesman warned me, "removing the seats will totally void the warranty of the vehicle". I would love to hear your thoughts, research, and understandings about this. Thank you!
Are you in the US? If yes, then unless it can be proven that the seat removal caused the problem you're trying to get fixed under warranty, voiding the warranty because you removed seats would be in violation of U.S. Code Article 15 Section 2302(c), put into place by the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/15/2302#c I'm not a lawyer and this is not legal advice.
Rather than removing the sliders, simply put something alongside them or behind them to take any loads and protect them from damage. On my older Sienna, after removing the seats, I would simply put a piece of 4x4 behind them. I could then load a whole sheet of plywood into the van, with the plywood supported in the front by the 4x4. If you wanted to get fancy you could fabricate a little plywood platform to cover and protect them when the seats are out.
I'm glad you mentioned retightening the bolts their specified , foot lbs . As with so many auto detailers that have removed seats , have never mentioned this . And I as usual mention that for safety , they retighten the bolts to the specified , foot lbs . It's just plain common sense .
Great Job. Toyota should cut you a check. You made it possible for people to buy this vehicle even AFTER they learned that the middle seats were not removable. Too bad Toyota doesn't understand their customer needs
Awesome video! So appreciate this. I wish you had shown us the interior of the van without the seats just for context, see how the rails stick up from the floor. But thanks for the leg/ brain/ arm/ hand/ back work to figure this out!
I was all set to buy 2021 Sienna van and turn it into a little camper until I discovered that A. It ONLY came with a hybrid drive system. I'm not willing to give up the horsepower of the V6. And B. The middle seats don't come out. Even after seeing this video, that still doesn't remove the sliding rails. And what about the air bag warnings? No thanks. Toyota, you really blew it with this.
Thanks, Brad! The LE has a bench-type 2nd row seat arrangement, vs. captain's chairs, which is what you show here. Have you tried removing the bench seat from an LE trim? If not, can you leave a link here as to how to go about that? I can't find one. I know that there will be similarities; but the problems are often in the details.
I think making the seats difficult to remove is a bad design. You can no longer able to carry 4x8 sheets without removing the seats, that's less functional than the previous version.
The older design was better. I moved sheetrock, plywood, and furniture also, (even a bed-set and a heavy sofa sleeper couch). Then, I would just put the seats back. I moved many things in that minivan. The seats were awkward, but easy to remove. And there were no odd rails sticking up after removing the seats. That minivan doubled as a small pickup truck as well as taking my family on many long road trips. Toyota gained little by moving to the new design.
Thanks for this! I am a Sienna fan who was very disappointed by the 'non removable 2nd row. Question: Are Sienna computers ok with not seeing airbag signls long term? Thanks again.
Probably the first thing I would do to a Sienna if I got one. I would remove the rails also and just use the 3rd tow seats if I need to carry more than 2 people. I like the Sienna because you can get AWD and carry lots of stuff for roadtrips. But it's still a pain to remove, I hope the next gen will solve that issue.
Thank you very much for this useful video, and your associated video about the 2.2 ohm plug. It would be great if someone could provide a drawing or sketch diagram showing the length and width of the floor space that becomes available after removal of the 2nd and 3rd row seats. That would help potential buyers who would like to fit in a camper module(s) or e.g. carry a cargo bicycle or etc.
Agreed!!! I'm wanting to buy one of these vans and turn it into a mini camper. I really need those measurements too!!!!!! Brad, please make a video on how to remove all seats, except the 2 front ones.
Still a problem that the vertical hatch opening is about 4-5 smaller than previous generation plus that 4 banger is loud and stressed under throttle. lol.
You're a boss, thanks for the video. I'm still disappointed that Toyota doesn't make these quick release. I have a 2011 and I LOVE the LuXXXury of having the second row seats and I also LOVE camping in my van with my custom bedframe. The versatility of the Sienna minivan is what makes it genius. If only you could design a quick release kit! Sounds tough but anything is possible. I have my van lifted with a Journey's Off Road kit. After talking to the Journey's guys and given the amount of people lifting, customizing, and camping in their Sienna's, it seems like a major oversight to make the second row seats non removable. I was considering upgrading to the hybrid, but until the second row seats are easily removed, I'm gonna have to stick to straight gas. I'm very 😢 sad.
@@auroranite not really. It was never good to begin with. I had Journey's off-road install the kit and they put new shocks on it for me. I just had standard Monroe shocks put on. If you're looking for better handling or off road performance, find better shocks.. Wish I would have. Still handles like a boat. Also it's mandatory you use OEM control arms when installing lift kit
What is the status of your Ottoman project? I would like to do the same. I purchased an 8 passenger and was curious if I could accomplish this with take out seats from eBay
Toyota, world's largest automaker, maker of amazing vehicles, made the absolutely ridiculous decision to not allow their second row seats to be easily removable? This is why I'm getting a Pacifica.
The only thing that prevents me from acquiring a Sienna 21 is this huge central console that I would like to remove for a camper conversion . I want to leave only a flat alu checker plate for supporting the shifter .I need a pass tru to go at the back without going out . Did you explore how to undo the plastic trimmings which is unfortunately sharing with the dashboard ? Thks
Is it possible to remove the rails? I think the rails themselves would get in the way or could easily get damaged, plus look sharp and are somewhat of a hazard. I love the 2022 Sienna but I’m so disappointed about the lack of easy seat removal.
Thank you, Brad...that's what I have been waiting for as well!!! Excellent video...I am also curious if the 3rd row seat has any wiring that would prevent it from being removed...
Unless this becomes the standard for all vans, this is a deal breaker for me. If you’ve never had the option to remove the second, it won’t matter. But we’re on our third van and there’s no way I’d buy one that makes me go through this.
Thanks for posting. Very helpful. We have a 2011 Sienna xle . I have removed the middle seats. I guess they are the ottoman style because they have the leg rest. The seats are heavy awkward weight. I lent the minivan to my brother in law to move some furniture . We struggled more than usual to get them back in due to it was late in the day. Few days later I realized we had the seats switched. I think we were going somewhere and kids said dad something not right. I had a good laugh at my mistake. Take care. Drive safe.
Resolving airbag error after removing seats: ua-cam.com/video/CFSBTX6F_sw/v-deo.html FAQ: Q: Can you show us how to remove the rails? A: I won't be removing the rails myself but here's the instructions: 1drv.ms/u/s!AmKYRCVlOpOGlaBDRo_FIdNmkqI8Pg?e=brqbXX Q: How much length do you have once the seats are removed? A: 96 inches or 244cm from center console to trunk door Q: Why would you want to do this? A: I usually use the Sienna as a comfortable passenger car, but occasionally I need to haul something big. Addendum & Errata: (1) With the seat airbags disconnected, the car will warn you with an airbag message. It returns a few seconds after you try to dismiss it. To resolve this error: ua-cam.com/video/CFSBTX6F_sw/v-deo.html (2) The white 13-pin connector is for seat belt warning and seat heater. Only the yellow 2-pin connector is for airbag. However it's still true that both need to be physically disconnected for the seat to come out.
@@marionsutcliffe1119 Where can I find this info? if it is true, I read one could use an "airbag simulator" to fool the car into thinking the airbag was attached. For me it's the difference between buying Sienna and not.
you probably dont give a damn but does any of you know of a trick to log back into an instagram account? I somehow lost my password. I would love any assistance you can give me
Excellent video! Do you have pictures of the interior with the seats removed? Is the floor flat? I ask because I want a hybrid minivan to convert to a camper. Thanks for the work you are doing.
Me too. Removing the seats and one of the rails was easy, but the rail with the electrical connections seems bolted in from the bottom, but the muffler is in the way. I came here hoping to find a solution.
I have my seats removed and built a wooden platform that sits just above the rail carriages. The floor isn’t level so my platform sits about 4” tall near the front end and flat on the back in the rear. It serves as a little cubby for pans and shoes towards the front so not a total loss of space. I’ve mounted my platform to the rail carriages using the factory seat bolts and it is solid. I roll around with a foam mattress in my van at all times!
I own a 2017 Sienna LE AWD with 2nd row Captain's chairs. By the time you had the rear 12 volt battery negative terminal disconnected I had both of my 2nd row seats out of my van. Just sayin'. It's like the brainiacs at Toyota sat around discussing the 2022 Sienna and said, " Hey, the current Sienna is WAAAAYYY to practical. So, how can we make owning a new Sienna less attractive to our customers"? Answer #1) "how about making the 2nd row seats (much) hard(er) to remove?" ; 2) "That rear windshield wiper that's hidden under the rear hatch spoiler? Yeah, let's place it on the lower part of the rear windshield, just.like everyone else!!"; 3) "Hey, our V6 is super smooth and quiet. So, let's get rid of it and put in a loud, weak 4 cylinder with less power!!" What it up with Toyota? Their goal must be to lower the sales of the Sienna because they really made an already hard-to-sell vehicle harder to sell.
was thinking to buy this 2021 model and convert it to a camper, but if the middle row tracking rails cannot be removed or properly dealt with then will be a no go for me.
@@marionsutcliffe1119 Can you confirm this 100% works or has anyone else actually done this? I don't know what a ohm resistor is but I will track them down if this solves this problem. Thanks!
@@tallpaul9848 Just what I found searching internet. Sounds like a good bet of $3 vs no airbags in an accident. A resistor is something that resists electricity flow in an electrical wire. 3 ohms is indicating how much resistance. Even a lightbulb is a resistor (actually, anything that runs on electricity is a resistor). When electricity flows thru a resistor it heats up (and even glows in the case of an incandescent lightbulb). It doesn't seem that heat is an issue.
As mentioned by others this seat removal would get me back into the mindset of buying one, But-- can you please do a video showing the removal of the rails? I would like them completely out and then maybe I get a piece of carpet to cover the slots, etc. Thank you.
If you want the next best thing to this that you can remove the second seats try the Prius V. That’s a mini van version of the Prius. But you will have to go to Canada to buy it and you can legally bring it to the USA.
Interesting idea, although Prius V is half a meter shorter. I think Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid comes close but the hybrid version can't have AWD, and it's less fuel-efficient.
![How to Build a Floor with Storage in a Toyota Sienna Conversion! [Step by Step]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/eRhoQteNiHM/mqdefault.jpg)
Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Two days ago I removed all my seats in my 2023 Sienna XLE to get it ready for full-time van life. I must admit it was nerve wreaking, and I was so nervous when I unplugged the 2nd-row seats. Thanks to you and your simulators, all is well, and I have no airbag errors. I will brag about you for the rest of my life!!!
please consider making a video of your van build
Same!
An inexpensive solution to protect yourself and cargo from the exposed carriage rails is to cover them with a section of foam pipe insulation, like the kind used to insulate hot water pipes. It already has a seam/split so you can just slide it over the top!
Or pool noodles split down the middle
This is so obvious and genius! I was thinking all week how I could cover them up effectively. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Brad, many salesmen should share their commission with you. You have finally offer the proven answer that holds back many potential buyers who want to have the option to remove these two seats even though they won't be latch on/off. Again, great contribution!
That’s a true statement.
My sentiments exactly. I'll bet my house that Toyota will come out with removable second seats in ...2022. I could wait for that...
@@JJ-gc8du thats a big bet. How are you so sure?
@@JJ-gc8du that comment didn't aged well haha
Agree!! This was the Single most reason for me not getting this van!! Im coming from an 2009 Odyssey and it went completely flat and still is my cargo hero better hen the wifes SUV! I wish Toyota redesigns this for weekend warrior dads who need to load up a kid for college or loading drywall and building supplies! It would be great to get remove those post from the guide rails. faster. Right now the Oddy can have both seats out in 3 min!
The whole purpose of buying a minivan is space. I hate the fact the 2nd row is this hard to remove. Bad design from Toyota.
Uhh yes and no... Most minivan owners do not remove their second row often if ever. While I agree its annoying, they did it for a reason - and its not a deal breaker for most
Excellent instructional video! This gentleman is a born teacher and definitely has an engineering mind. Thank you!
Not the Hero we deserve, but the Hero we need
how do you take out that computer glitch? thanks!
@@diaperdood1 I developed an airbag simulator specifically for Sienna: ua-cam.com/video/CFSBTX6F_sw/v-deo.html
The non-removable second row was a deal breaker for me. What was Toyota thinking? Now that I see they are removable I am reconsidering buying one. Thanks for the vid! Awesome!
Agree - Total deal-breaker! But after watching this, NOW I KNOW there's no f-ing way I'd consider dealing w/ this nonsense. When you need the 2nd row gone, you usually need it gone relatively fast (furniture, bikes, wood, etc). I'm not going to spend half a day doing this BS.
@@w650dave1 totally agree... Such a bummer Toyota overlooked the folks who like to move big cargo
Reason I haven't bought a newer van
@@w650dave1 Shouldn't take any more than 25-30 minutes. You'd spend a lot more time than that sitting in the waiting room at the dealership while a Pacifica is repaired over the years.
😂 FACT@@markkraus8674
There are so many long-winded, lame "how to" videos on UA-cam. This video is EXCELLENT. Long time Sienna owner, furious for this design down-grade but your video shows we can circumvent Toyota's poor design flaw. Also, production values are exceptional. Really, top notch. Many thanks.
I was seriously thinking about buying a 2024 Sienna to use as a camper conversion WHEN we travel. But once I found out the 2nd row seats are now non-removable ...I was ready to cancel the deal. I am a 75yoa DIYer who now plans to go forward with my plans. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!!
Great camera work, especially the close ups. So much better than many UA-cam diy videos ,
Thanks for your video on how to. I just removed my seats, and I would have bought your resistors, but, I snagged a few on amazon before I saw your video. I zipped tied the cables to the track. Now a video on how to remove the third row put in a floor sink toilet! LOL
What were they thinking making NON-removable seats in a van. Unthinkable. Crazy. Thank you Sooo much for binging this video You rock !!!
Agreed. A major purpose for many is to provide double duty as a cargo hauler. Toyota is saying that this in mainly for hauling people. Too bad.
Thank you for the video.. Toyota really needs to make these seats quickly removable.
Nice video, Brad. The non-movable middle row is a deal breaker for me so it's nice to know there's a procedure to bypass Toyota's really poor second row re-design. These seats seem like a huge pain to work with even when installed. They should be motorized. Anyway, thanks again.
They Are removable
@@marshaclifton1535 Removable in this case means the manufacturer designed it to be removed and restored easily by the customer, without special tools. Of course anything can be removed in that car with tools and enough time. The last body style on this van did have removable middle row seats and it was awesome.
The 2012 Sienna I have has removable seats. Toyota must have tried to save money by making them fixed.
I think that Sienna made the middle row "non-removable" due to the airbag connections. If it was done easily by the consumer, or recommended by the factory, Toyota could have liability issues when they either were set off accidentally, or not reconnected later, resulting in injury/death. But I agree, the seat removal and remaining track issue is the big fail in Siennas vs the Odyssey or Pacifica. But I'm still in the process of buying my 3rd Sienna - wouldn't trade for either of the other two.
Fits perfectly rear-facing in our truck, which has a slightly smaller back seats. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkx6_FKRYB2ClSPRyjcd8HptiCS3EiQoNX4 Feels as comfy and plush as our Graco Contender carseat
Wow I don’t own the sienna but you’re a hero! You’ve just made the sienna more appealing
Not to me. Two things that get on my nerves is no hybrid v6 option and you can remove the seats in the middle row quick. This van will not sale like it used be because of those 2 things.
@@usarocksandyousuckifyoudon6971 the sienna is still the best hybrid and just like the prius, you can easily acces the battery to install your camping accessories and run the HVAC and many other appliances very efficiently
@@alanmay7929 You drive a prius.🤣🤣😂😂
@@usarocksandyousuckifyoudon6971 I drive a lexus gs450h
@@usarocksandyousuckifyoudon6971 people have been living in prius for years now, and its the best suited hybrid for camping applications.
I didnt purchase a sienna bc of the non removable seats- you just changed my mind. Thank you for this video!!!!
Thank you! This is such a great van on paper. The interior decisions were 💩
Very good tutorial. Only wish a wide shot of the empty cargo space had been shared once seats out.
Wow ... awesome! Looking forward to seeing you remove the rails next.
THANK YOU! I did the removal myself --successfully! I must have started and stopped your video 6 times but everything I ran into was covered. Thank you so much!
My confidence that those plastic tabs won’t snap after repeating this process 5-6 times? ZERO, absolutely zero. Really happy I saw this before settling into a Toyota. All this to get the van ready to head to the hardware store to load that new dishwasher (or whatever it may be)? Nope.
I've had so much stuff in the back of my sienna and have yet to need to remove the middle seats. The way they fold out of the way allows you to slide a 4x8 sheet of plywood in no problem. but do go on with all of your Hands-On knowledge
Weird choice from Toyota. Removing the middle seats in a minivan is great for cargo space.
This is the second generation of Sienna like this. Siennas from 98-09 had a removable second row. It's likely a response to Stow 'n Go, since not everyone is physically able to carry a seat.
I really like that my 04 8-seater has individual removable buckets in the second row. I can configure it as a 3 seat bench, 2 seat bench on either side or 2 captain's chairs.
@@questioner1596 Our ‘13 has an 8 passenger setup and the middle row comes out. It’s a absolute pain because the middle seat isn’t separate (nowhere near the ease of our 07’ Odyssey). This may be just for the latest generation.
@@jaywhite1850, while the middle row in those newer Siennas can be removed, it leaves the sliding base. I don't think Toyota expects people to remove the seats, since the seat bottom folds up and it slides forward.
My '04 doesn't have the sliding track, so the seats are much simpler to remove. Also, the middle seat base isn't connected to one of the side seats like the newer vans.
@@questioner1596 Not sure I understand completely. You’re saying the new ‘21 (5th gen) seat separates from the base? That doesn’t make sense because of the airbags inside the seats. That’s why Toyota made the seats non-removable. I have the 4th gen and there’s no cradle/base.
@@jaywhite1850, I'm responding to you saying you have a '13 Sienna, and saying it's a newer Sienna than the 98-09s that didn't have the sliding tracks.
The newest Siennas presumably have removable rear seats, just like I have unbolted and unplugged front seats from cars, but it's not meant to be easily removed by the customer (the 2010-20 Sienna's seats can also be unbolted from their bases, but not easily either). They are on sliding bases, just look at how the middle seat in the 2021 is a removable jump seat that clips into the sliding base of the seat next to it.
I question your use of 5th generation for the 2021, because by my count there have been 4 generations of Sienna (98-03, 04-09, 10-20, 21+).
Brad, your video is AWESOME! You said it would take “ten minutes, if you know what you’re doing.” Well, clearly I don’t know what I’m doing. (I had to find a video to show me how to use a socket wrench.) This tool-challenged woman managed to get both seats out in 90 minutes. Your dongles work wonderfully well! When I had to reinstall a seat, it went much quicker (especially since I bought a socket adaptor for my drill). THANK YOU!!!
You sir are next level! Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into this video. Weekend warriors everywhere rejoice!
Thanks for showing what it would take if I ever bought one. I've been pondering trading up my 2020 Sienna to the new one. I knew of the non-removable seats which stopped me cold. Now that we have some instructions on how to do it, maybe I'd reconsider that the hybrid benefits would outway my seat removal scenarios which are less than 3 times a year.
Im with ya... I use it primarily for my giant scale radio controlled planes, so 2-3times a year at most would be re-installing them. The Honda sport odyssey is good but I do not need an overpowered 6 cylinder engine with 19/28 mpg compared to 36/36 mpg with sienna. I just wonder about accidentally touching something to activate the air bags... Hmmm? Thanks for this great video!!!
My dongles arrived today!
My neighbor is coming over to help me re move them 🎉
Thank you. We need more videos for this car model. There are very very few to watch and learn from Sienna 4th gen. For instance, you just mentioned how the Auto sliding doors reactivated after batt disconnection.
Just removed my two middles seats and your airbag bypass worked perfectly!
Pretty sad they chose this design. Non-removable 2nd row seats are a deal killer for me. Rarely do it, but it's one of the reasons for having a van. Nice video, but way too much hassle, and I wouldn't want to mess with airbag electronics, even if just unplugging.
Great video Brad. Can you please do a video on removing the 3rd row seats? I have no use for them and would rather have the large cargo hold which is available when the seats are not folded down. Thanks!
Any luck?
Thank you for creating this dongle for the airbag. I was skeptical as we were removing the 2nd row of a new (to me) 2021 Sienna that is about to have a conversion kit go in. Between your incredibly instructive video and this dongle, all is well with the van. I appreciate all the time and effort you took to make this video and device. Also, I would like to let you know that the conversion kit company suggested I use your product. Keep up the great work!
Now its the center console that needs to be removed next. Atleast part of it so we can actually walk towards the back of the van. lol!
we just bought a 2020 used for this reason, the base model has no centre console and the 2nd row is removable (although it does leave some nasty rails). Good price on the 2020s with the 2021s coming out.
To be honest, in 13 years I have never needed to walk through the centre part of the front seats.
Agree totally
@@Snoopymk37 since captain chairs are so popular, I assume many find the flexibility useful. Especially with multiple kids that need attention
@@remyd8767 We have the 2021 now and love the centre console. As for getting to the back rows, it is just easier to open the door to get to the kids. We had three kids in the second row and it was fine.
Thank you, I just bought Sienna 2024 LE, I just realized that 2nd row seats are not removable. I learned from your video, I will truly to move the seats tomorrow.
Awesome video. Toyota should think about this Sienna as a utility vehicle/camper.
Thank you for your excellent video. We just removed our 2nd row seats and used your dongles. Worked great. The computer thought the air bags were still there.
What dongles? Dont remember seeing or hearing in the video......leaving the airbag plug unplugged will trigger the airbag light/ system.
I love that I found this and you! Now I will buy the hybrid sienna!
Awesome video but the lack of a easily removable second row is still a deal breaker for me with that vehicle.
They gutted the storage all over the car, it's loud on pickup, and I hear that the leather isn't leather. I'm keeping my 2018.
Everyone that was complaining you can’t remove the 2nd row forgot that someone at the factory bolted them in too. Thanks for the video, and how well done it was. Look forward to the ottoman conversion.
Everything in this video and follow-up with the purchased resistors worked (with ever so slight difference I could handle) with the LE trim package's different-but-same seats and tracks. They are gone and the van is fine with it. Thanks!
What are the inferior dimensions with the middle seats removed? Can it fit 4X8 plywood boards like the Odyssey/Pacifica/Carnival ?
Did you get an answer? This was my next question but forgot. My Odyssey is my champion for this. She unfortunately is 2009 and although still good I think a change of vans is needed. Never owned a Toyota since my Tercel in High school! 300k+!!
I'd like to find out open space dimensions with seats out as well. I would have liked to view the open space in the video also.
YES! ALL TOYO" MINI VANS' CAN FIT A 4×8, SHEET OF PLYWOOD.
@@batman1169 Hondas have that rubber timing chain that will always need replacing! At 1090!! Or more. Toyotas' have Steele chains. Life time good
@@captainamericaamerica8090 i agree it's probably better but not sure why everyone is hung up on timing belts vs chains vs what the actual vehicle does and handled.
My mechanic tells me that's not 100% true about steel belts as he replaces them as well every so often. If you Google timing chain for a Sienna, they sell aftermarket ones and UA-cam Videos how to do it. They stretch over time apparently. Your key is regular oil changes. 👍💕 Then it will last longer!
Thank you! This video is very helpful for those of us who use our minivan to move cargo.
Thank you sooo much! I just removed the seats to fit my dog crates in my 2024 Sienna. I would LOVE if you made a video about removing the rails!! Please please please do make a rail removal video! 🙌
I DO NOT LIKE 2021 SIENNA SEATS WILL NOT REMOVE LIKE THE PREVIOUS ONES, I HOPE THEY CHANGE BACK TO OLDER TECHNOLOGY. TOYOTA WE NEED TO REMOVE OUR SEATS WITHOU ANY TROUBLE, THIS CAUSE A LOT PROBLEMS!!!
My salesman warned me, "removing the seats will totally void the warranty of the vehicle". I would love to hear your thoughts, research, and understandings about this. Thank you!
Are you in the US? If yes, then unless it can be proven that the seat removal caused the problem you're trying to get fixed under warranty, voiding the warranty because you removed seats would be in violation of U.S. Code Article 15 Section 2302(c), put into place by the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/15/2302#c I'm not a lawyer and this is not legal advice.
I hope you shared the reply from Brad with the salesman. He might sell more Siennas.
Rather than removing the sliders, simply put something alongside them or behind them to take any loads and protect them from damage. On my older Sienna, after removing the seats, I would simply put a piece of 4x4 behind them. I could then load a whole sheet of plywood into the van, with the plywood supported in the front by the 4x4. If you wanted to get fancy you could fabricate a little plywood platform to cover and protect them when the seats are out.
I'll do the same if someone will come up with a plug-in to stop the airbag warning light on the dash.
I'm glad you mentioned retightening the bolts their specified , foot lbs . As with so many auto detailers that have removed seats , have never mentioned this . And I as usual mention that for safety , they retighten the bolts to the specified , foot lbs . It's just plain common sense .
Put the two dongles where appropriate in my 2022 Sienna and worked like a charm-thank you!
Great Job. Toyota should cut you a check. You made it possible for people to buy this vehicle even AFTER they learned that the middle seats were not removable. Too bad Toyota doesn't understand their customer needs
Really excited for that ottoman upgrade video
Excellent tutorial video... Toyota should have kept the removal of seats as optional.
Thank you for this detailed video. I agree that Toyota totally dropped the ball with not being able to remove the seats easily.
Awesome video! So appreciate this. I wish you had shown us the interior of the van without the seats just for context, see how the rails stick up from the floor. But thanks for the leg/ brain/ arm/ hand/ back work to figure this out!
Sunday 19/22/23: does this video work on a 2023 XSE Hybrid van??
I was all set to buy 2021 Sienna van and turn it into a little camper until I discovered that A. It ONLY came with a hybrid drive system. I'm not willing to give up the horsepower of the V6. And B. The middle seats don't come out. Even after seeing this video, that still doesn't remove the sliding rails. And what about the air bag warnings? No thanks. Toyota, you really blew it with this.
Thanks, Brad! The LE has a bench-type 2nd row seat arrangement, vs. captain's chairs, which is what you show here. Have you tried removing the bench seat from an LE trim? If not, can you leave a link here as to how to go about that? I can't find one. I know that there will be similarities; but the problems are often in the details.
I would like to know if there is a way to modify the second row bench in the LE to make it "captain's chairs".
I removed the 2nd row from my 2021 Sienna LE. It comes out in 2 pieces. It's not a bench, but looks like it
Brad, you are a smart, ingenious dude. Keep it up. I sincerely appreciate the video and dongle you have produced.
I really miss the removal second row seat, especially hauling big ticket items.
Thanks! I bought your airbag simulator parts and just followed this procedure on my 2021 Sienna, worked great!
I think making the seats difficult to remove is a bad design. You can no longer able to carry 4x8 sheets without removing the seats, that's less functional than the previous version.
Apparently, you can .. if placed vertically between the second row seats. Havent seen a video or image showing that but thats the claim.
The comment I was looking for, thanks, agreed.
The older design was better. I moved sheetrock, plywood, and furniture also, (even a bed-set and a heavy sofa sleeper couch). Then, I would just put the seats back. I moved many things in that minivan. The seats were awkward, but easy to remove. And there were no odd rails sticking up after removing the seats. That minivan doubled as a small pickup truck as well as taking my family on many long road trips. Toyota gained little by moving to the new design.
Thanks for this! I am a Sienna fan who was very disappointed by the 'non removable 2nd row.
Question:
Are Sienna computers ok with not seeing airbag signls long term? Thanks again.
I developed an airbag simulator to solve the airbag error: ua-cam.com/video/CFSBTX6F_sw/v-deo.html
This video just sold me on the Seinna over Rav 4, cheers mate.
Thanks Brad.
I am really impressed your video Is there any warning light if we leave two back seats off the van in full time?.
Probably the first thing I would do to a Sienna if I got one. I would remove the rails also and just use the 3rd tow seats if I need to carry more than 2 people.
I like the Sienna because you can get AWD and carry lots of stuff for roadtrips.
But it's still a pain to remove, I hope the next gen will solve that issue.
with the seats slid forward the cab has 78 inches of length. I'm wondering how much more room you gain from removing the seats?
They should sell a version w out middle seats and add a pop top
Thank you very much for this useful video, and your associated video about the 2.2 ohm plug.
It would be great if someone could provide a drawing or sketch diagram showing the length and width of the floor space that becomes available after removal of the 2nd and 3rd row seats. That would help potential buyers who would like to fit in a camper module(s) or e.g. carry a cargo bicycle or etc.
Agreed!!! I'm wanting to buy one of these vans and turn it into a mini camper. I really need those measurements too!!!!!! Brad, please make a video on how to remove all seats, except the 2 front ones.
Would love a follow up video of installing the seats with the ottoman. Especially interested to see if the heated seats work.
Daaaamn. This is great. I'm looking forward to the ottoman seat installation.
Amazing and helpful!
Thanks for doing this! Looking forward to the ottoman video! Picking up my AWD Limited Monday morning and would love the ottomans
AWD does come with Ottoman D:
@@JacobGamezChannel Just picked up my AWD yesterday. No option for Ottoman. I'm looking forward to the video installing them though
@@big_binger4063 please let me know how it goes
Limited.has an option for removing seats and installing.the seats are completely different.
Thank you for saving my time looking for the levers or buttons trying to take the seats out.
Great job. Thanks for posting this video. It has increased the odds that I will buy a gen 4 Sienna.
Still a problem that the vertical hatch opening is about 4-5 smaller than previous generation plus that 4 banger is loud and stressed under throttle. lol.
Buy a older one
You're a boss, thanks for the video. I'm still disappointed that Toyota doesn't make these quick release. I have a 2011 and I LOVE the LuXXXury of having the second row seats and I also LOVE camping in my van with my custom bedframe. The versatility of the Sienna minivan is what makes it genius. If only you could design a quick release kit! Sounds tough but anything is possible. I have my van lifted with a Journey's Off Road kit. After talking to the Journey's guys and given the amount of people lifting, customizing, and camping in their Sienna's, it seems like a major oversight to make the second row seats non removable. I was considering upgrading to the hybrid, but until the second row seats are easily removed, I'm gonna have to stick to straight gas. I'm very 😢 sad.
Did it change the handling of van when driving after the Lift kit install?
@@auroranite not really. It was never good to begin with. I had Journey's off-road install the kit and they put new shocks on it for me. I just had standard Monroe shocks put on. If you're looking for better handling or off road performance, find better shocks.. Wish I would have. Still handles like a boat. Also it's mandatory you use OEM control arms when installing lift kit
What is the status of your Ottoman project? I would like to do the same. I purchased an 8 passenger and was curious if I could accomplish this with take out seats from eBay
Toyota, world's largest automaker, maker of amazing vehicles, made the absolutely ridiculous decision to not allow their second row seats to be easily removable? This is why I'm getting a Pacifica.
The only thing that prevents me from acquiring a Sienna 21 is this huge central console that I would like to remove for a camper conversion . I want to leave only a flat alu checker plate for supporting the shifter .I need a pass tru to go at the back without going out . Did you explore how to undo the plastic trimmings which is unfortunately sharing with the dashboard ? Thks
You should a video of removing the wheels caps cover that are glued to the wheels. I want to see how it looks like
I’m interested in how you do the Ottoman upgrade
AWD and Ottoman are mutually exclusive. Come on, Toyota
Thank You. Great Tutorial. 🙂
Is it possible to remove the rails? I think the rails themselves would get in the way or could easily get damaged, plus look sharp and are somewhat of a hazard. I love the 2022 Sienna but I’m so disappointed about the lack of easy seat removal.
Thank you, Brad...that's what I have been waiting for as well!!! Excellent video...I am also curious if the 3rd row seat has any wiring that would prevent it from being removed...
我也想问问
Unless this becomes the standard for all vans, this is a deal breaker for me. If you’ve never had the option to remove the second, it won’t matter. But we’re on our third van and there’s no way I’d buy one that makes me go through this.
Excellent. Exceptionally clear and complete. Thank you.
You are an absolute legend! Can’t wait for the next video.
Thanks for posting. Very helpful. We have a 2011 Sienna xle . I have removed the middle seats. I guess they are the ottoman style because they have the leg rest. The seats are heavy awkward weight. I lent the minivan to my brother in law to move some furniture . We struggled more than usual to get them back in due to it was late in the day. Few days later I realized we had the seats switched. I think we were going somewhere and kids said dad something not right. I had a good laugh at my mistake. Take care. Drive safe.
This video makes me feel better about buying a Chrysler Pacifica.
The idea of thinking that the second row of chairs can be turned is so good. Let me know if you know how. Thank you. That's a great idea.
Resolving airbag error after removing seats: ua-cam.com/video/CFSBTX6F_sw/v-deo.html
FAQ:
Q: Can you show us how to remove the rails?
A: I won't be removing the rails myself but here's the instructions: 1drv.ms/u/s!AmKYRCVlOpOGlaBDRo_FIdNmkqI8Pg?e=brqbXX
Q: How much length do you have once the seats are removed?
A: 96 inches or 244cm from center console to trunk door
Q: Why would you want to do this?
A: I usually use the Sienna as a comfortable passenger car, but occasionally I need to haul something big.
Addendum & Errata:
(1) With the seat airbags disconnected, the car will warn you with an airbag message. It returns a few seconds after you try to dismiss it. To resolve this error: ua-cam.com/video/CFSBTX6F_sw/v-deo.html
(2) The white 13-pin connector is for seat belt warning and seat heater. Only the yellow 2-pin connector is for airbag. However it's still true that both need to be physically disconnected for the seat to come out.
If the light is on, the car has ""no airbags at all**
@@marionsutcliffe1119 Where can I find this info? if it is true, I read one could use an "airbag simulator" to fool the car into thinking the airbag was attached. For me it's the difference between buying Sienna and not.
@@catherinekinsella3372 I developed an airbag simulator specifically for Sienna: ua-cam.com/video/CFSBTX6F_sw/v-deo.html
you probably dont give a damn but does any of you know of a trick to log back into an instagram account?
I somehow lost my password. I would love any assistance you can give me
@Nova Terrance instablaster =)
Excellent video! Do you have pictures of the interior with the seats removed? Is the floor flat? I ask because I want a hybrid minivan to convert to a camper. Thanks for the work you are doing.
I assumed this would be an essential visual to include with this video, but no. Otherwise, great tutorial.
Considering doing the same thing.
Me too. Removing the seats and one of the rails was easy, but the rail with the electrical connections seems bolted in from the bottom, but the muffler is in the way. I came here hoping to find a solution.
I have my seats removed and built a wooden platform that sits just above the rail carriages. The floor isn’t level so my platform sits about 4” tall near the front end and flat on the back in the rear. It serves as a little cubby for pans and shoes towards the front so not a total loss of space. I’ve mounted my platform to the rail carriages using the factory seat bolts and it is solid. I roll around with a foam mattress in my van at all times!
I own a 2017 Sienna LE AWD with 2nd row Captain's chairs. By the time you had the rear 12 volt battery negative terminal disconnected I had both of my 2nd row seats out of my van. Just sayin'. It's like the brainiacs at Toyota sat around discussing the 2022 Sienna and said, " Hey, the current Sienna is WAAAAYYY to practical. So, how can we make owning a new Sienna less attractive to our customers"? Answer #1) "how about making the 2nd row seats (much) hard(er) to remove?" ; 2) "That rear windshield wiper that's hidden under the rear hatch spoiler? Yeah, let's place it on the lower part of the rear windshield, just.like everyone else!!"; 3) "Hey, our V6 is super smooth and quiet. So, let's get rid of it and put in a loud, weak 4 cylinder with less power!!"
What it up with Toyota? Their goal must be to lower the sales of the Sienna because they really made an already hard-to-sell vehicle harder to sell.
Love the quality of the video. Don't even have a minivan. SUBSCRIBED!
was thinking to buy this 2021 model and convert it to a camper, but if the middle row tracking rails cannot be removed or properly dealt with then will be a no go for me.
Is there a way to turn the airbag light off while the seats are out of the van?
Shove a 3 to 3.3 ohm resistor in the yellow harness.
@@marionsutcliffe1119 Can you confirm this 100% works or has anyone else actually done this? I don't know what a ohm resistor is but I will track them down if this solves this problem. Thanks!
@@tallpaul9848 Just what I found searching internet. Sounds like a good bet of $3 vs no airbags in an accident. A resistor is something that resists electricity flow in an electrical wire. 3 ohms is indicating how much resistance. Even a lightbulb is a resistor (actually, anything that runs on electricity is a resistor). When electricity flows thru a resistor it heats up (and even glows in the case of an incandescent lightbulb). It doesn't seem that heat is an issue.
Use this airbag simulator I developed for the Sienna: ua-cam.com/video/CFSBTX6F_sw/v-deo.html
As mentioned by others this seat removal would get me back into the mindset of buying one, But-- can you please do a video showing the removal of the rails? I would like them completely out and then maybe I get a piece of carpet to cover the slots, etc. Thank you.
If you want the next best thing to this that you can remove the second seats try the Prius V. That’s a mini van version of the Prius. But you will have to go to Canada to buy it and you can legally bring it to the USA.
Interesting idea, although Prius V is half a meter shorter. I think Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid comes close but the hybrid version can't have AWD, and it's less fuel-efficient.
I really like the new design of the Siena. It looks so cool 👌👍
HI Brad, great video on removing non-removeable Sienna seats. Please make a video on how to remove the tracks for these middle seats. Thanks
This guy is a rock star!!
Really well done videos and well scripted easy to follow commentary . Thank You
Thank you! We're looking to add a Roadloft camper conversion. This helps a lot.