Toyota Sequoia problems
The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV manufactured by Toyota mainly for the North American market since 2000 for the 2001 model year, being derived from the Tundra pickup truck. It is the second largest SUV ever produced under the Toyota brand, after the Japan-exclusive, military-focused Mega Cruiser.
Previously manufactured at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana in Princeton, Indiana between 2000 and 2021, and then in Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas in San Antonio, Texas since 2022, the Sequoia is the first vehicle from a Japanese marque in the popular mainstream full-sized SUV class in North America, and initial planning done by first-generation Sequoia chief engineer Kaoru Hosokawa aimed the Sequoia directly at the Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Tahoe, Nissan Armada, and other full-size SUVs.
Up until the 2021 model year, the Sequoia was slotted between the mid-size 4Runner and the premium Land Cruiser in the North American Toyota SUV lineup. With the discontinuation of North American sales of the Land Cruiser from the 2022 model year onward, the Sequoia became the flagship SUV in Toyota's North America lineup.
As of 2021, the Sequoia is sold in the United States, Canada, and Costa Rica. It is offered in left-hand drive only.
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Toyota Sequoia model years
Common Toyota Sequoia problems
The Toyota Sequoia, like any other vehicle, has its share of common problems that have been reported by owners. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- Premature Front Lower Ball Joint Wear: Some Sequoia models have been reported to have premature front lower ball joint wear, which can cause hard steering and even loss of vehicle control if the ball joint separates from the knuckle. Toyota has issued recalls for some Sequoia models to address this issue.
- Airbag Deflator Module Chemical Imbalance: Some Sequoia models have been reported to have issues with the airbag deflator module chemical imbalance, which can cause the airbags to deploy with too much pressure. This issue has been the subject of recalls and investigations by the NHTSA.
- Unprompted Activation of the Vehicle Stability Control System (VSC): Some Sequoia models have been reported to have issues with the VSC system, which can cause the brakes to engage suddenly and the vehicle to shake or jerk to the side. This issue has been the subject of recalls and investigations by the NHTSA.
- Frame Rust: Some Sequoia models have been reported to have issues with frame rust, which can weaken the vehicle's structure and potentially lead to accidents. Toyota has agreed to extend the rust perforation warranty and fix the undercarriage on some affected Sequoia vehicles for free.
- Transmission Problems: Some Sequoia models have been reported to have issues with the transmission, including transmission failure and issues with the torque converter. These issues can be expensive to repair and potentially lead to accidents.
- Faulty Oxygen Sensor: Some Sequoia models have been reported to have issues with the oxygen sensor, which can cause the check engine light to illuminate and potentially lead to issues with the vehicle's emissions system.
It is important to note that not all Sequoia models will experience these issues, and many owners have reported positive experiences with the vehicle. However, it is important to be aware of these potential problems and address them promptly if they do occur. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these issues and ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.
Is the Toyota Sequoia reliable?
The 2024 Toyota Sequoia has a predicted reliability score of 75 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Do Toyota Sequoias have problems?
Toyota Sequoia Reliability Problems. Sequoia owners have made 310 complaints over 20 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 17th in overall reliability out of 33 Toyota models , with some brakes and electrical concerns.
Do Toyota Sequoias have transmission problems?
Toyota announced Wednesday it is recalling nearly 280,000 Toyota Tundra, Sequoia and Lexus LX 600 vehicles because of a transmission problem that can result in cars rolling forward while in neutral.
Why are Toyota Sequoias so hard to get?
The full-size Sequoia was never stocked in large numbers to begin with, so current supply chain issues have made the situation more precarious. Toyota introduced a fully-redesigned Sequoia for the 2023 model year. The previous generation of the Sequoia was introduced in 2008 and ran until 2022.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Toyota Sequoia years
We have researched Toyota problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Toyota Sequoia cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Toyota Sequoia model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Toyota Sequoia model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Toyota Sequoia years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Toyota Sequoia car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Toyota Sequoia , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Electronic stability control (esc) problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Structure problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Toyota Sequoia vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Sequoia model years
A total of 108 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Sequoia model years
There were a total of 8 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Sequoia model years
There were a total of 130 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Sequoia model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 3180 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Toyota Sequoia . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Toyota Sequoia vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Toyota Sequoia 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: 7SVAAABAXPX
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Vehicle comes with factory installed trailer towing equipment. 1. When a trailer is hooked up and headlights are turned on no signal is sent through the seven blade connector to turn on the running lights on the trailer. 2. When the trailer is connected no signal is sent through the seven blade connector to activate the electric brakes on the trailer. Because of these defects I was unable to tow my trailer. I have connected the vehicle to three different trailers and experienced the same issue. I have taken the vehicle to authorized dealer twice and they deny the problem.
Toyota Sequoia 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 5TDBT44A84S
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Toyota Sequoia 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
- VIN: 7SVAAABA9PX
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The pinch sensor of tailgate prevents the tailgate from closing.
Toyota Sequoia 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-29
- VIN: 5TDBT44A84S
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Toyota Sequoia 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
- VIN: 5TDZT38A35S
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Starter replacement is exceptionally high, self repair impossible. There should be recall on manufacturing design of starter placement inside intake manifold amongst other impossible expectations
Toyota Sequoia 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
- VIN: 7SVAAAAA2PX
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: T-SB-0043-24. In this safety bulletin it is noted that front brakes squeak. Loudly I might state. Happens always in the morning when backing out of covered garage. The bulletin says to verify then replace. Can get no help from Dealership or from Toyota USA. Very annoying and do not know about danger.
Toyota Sequoia 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-17
- VIN: 5TDJW5G1XAS
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Power steering rack assembly malfunctioned and started shaking violently. Upon inspection, a fluid leak was found from the passenger side of the steering rack.
Toyota Sequoia 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
- VIN: 7SVAAAAA8PX
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Upon purchasing my 2023 Toyota Sequoia, I noticed that the rear hitch cover had a tendency to come loose while driving and eventually fall off. I promptly addressed this issue with the dealership, and they replaced it with a new one. However, the problem persisted, and the replacement cover also failed after just a few days. This occurred when the vehicle had been driven for approximately 2,000 miles. The hitch cover continues to fall off.
Toyota Sequoia 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-23
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5TDEY5B12MS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Toyota Sequoia. The contact stated that while parked and the driver door was opened, he observed a beeping noise and the vehicle began reversing inadvertently. The contact dove into the driver's seat and attempted to move the gear shift but it was already in park (P). The contact was not sure if the brake was depressed at that time. The vehicle continued to reverse and collided with a creek bed. The contact sustained left hip and left knee injuries along with other cuts and scrapes. Medical attention was needed. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot and then to a body shop the next day. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where the failure could not be replicated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 33,236.
Toyota Sequoia 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-27
- VIN: 5TDBT48A17S
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 2007 Toyota Sequoia frame completely deteriorated and rusted through. I discovered this when brining my vehicle in for the Toyota Airbag Recall when the technician brought this safety issue to my attention. Previous driving had been extremely unstable and buckled when I was on the highway. Since discovering the frame issue, I stopped driving the vehicle. I believe this is a safety issue caused by a defective frame that Toyota is aware of and had issue a past recall for. The Toyota dealer has made a video of the deteriorated frame and has commented that the vehicle is a safety issue.
Toyota Sequoia 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-22
- VIN: 5TDGY5B11MS
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The gas tank on my vehicle started leaking. It has a crack in the tank. I have not been in an accident nor have I hit anything to cause damage to my vehicle. The vehicle had been parked for approximately 6 hours in my work parking lot when I was notified that the tank was leaking.
Toyota Sequoia 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-18
- VIN: 5TDZT34A02S
- Components: WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: My vehicle has randomly been flashing vbs/abs/traction control lights. Sometimes nothing happens other than the flashing lights. Other times I’ll be driving & when going around a curve my car makes a beeping noise (sounds like the abs noise activated) & I’ll feel a pulsing under the brake & hear a grinding sound. It doesn’t allow me to brake effectively. Another time I was coming to a stop behind a car at a red light. It was clear as day, roads weren’t wet & I couldn’t have been going over 10 mph. When hitting my brakes, my steering wheel kind of glided back & forth for a sec and it felt like my tires “floated”in the same motion as wheel until it stopped.
Toyota Sequoia 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-14
- VIN: 5TDZT38A21S
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2001 Toyota Sequoia. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, he became aware of a cranking sound and the vehicle suddenly started jerking and shaking. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired, and the front wheel speed sensor was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated the failure had gotten worse over time. The contact also stated that while searching online, he became aware that the failure was a common failure with similar vehicles. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or local dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 181,000.
Toyota Sequoia 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-10
- VIN: 5TDHY5B11MS
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: While I was driving on the freeway, my family and I heard a loud bang. I pulled over to check and discovered that our sunroof had exploded. We went to a Toyota dealership to have it examined, but the staff claimed it was caused by a rock. We opened the sunshade to check, but no rock was found inside. It was clearly an issue with the sunroof itself. Despite this, we received no help and were simply dismissed.
Toyota Sequoia 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-06
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Sequoia. The contact stated that while having routine maintenance at the local dealer, he was informed that the outer seals were leaking and full of fluid. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the rack and pinion seals had failed. The outer seals were leaking and full of fluid. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21E103000 (Steering). The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Latest 5 recalls Toyota Sequoia
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 128 recalls for different components of the Toyota Sequoia.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Toyota Sequoia 2006
- Report Received Date: 2022-01-14
- Manufacturer: Tenneco Automotive
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: Tenneco Automotive (DRiV) is recalling certain aftermarket ball joints for 2004-2007 Toyota Sequoia and 2004-2006 Toyota Tundra vehicles, MOOG part number K80521, K80522, NAPA part number NCP2601633, NCP2601634, ACDelco part number 45D2344, and 45D2345. The ball joint housing may have inadequate hardness, causing premature failure.
- Consequence: A ball joint failure may cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: DRiV will work with distributors to return unsold parts. Dealers will inspect and replace the ball joint as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 17, 2022. Owners may contact DRiV customer service at 1-877-489-6659 or at [email protected].
- Model: Toyota Sequoia 2004
- Report Received Date: 2022-01-14
- Manufacturer: Tenneco Automotive
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: Tenneco Automotive (DRiV) is recalling certain aftermarket ball joints for 2004-2007 Toyota Sequoia and 2004-2006 Toyota Tundra vehicles, MOOG part number K80521, K80522, NAPA part number NCP2601633, NCP2601634, ACDelco part number 45D2344, and 45D2345. The ball joint housing may have inadequate hardness, causing premature failure.
- Consequence: A ball joint failure may cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: DRiV will work with distributors to return unsold parts. Dealers will inspect and replace the ball joint as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 17, 2022. Owners may contact DRiV customer service at 1-877-489-6659 or at [email protected].
- Model: Toyota Sequoia 2005
- Report Received Date: 2022-01-14
- Manufacturer: Tenneco Automotive
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: Tenneco Automotive (DRiV) is recalling certain aftermarket ball joints for 2004-2007 Toyota Sequoia and 2004-2006 Toyota Tundra vehicles, MOOG part number K80521, K80522, NAPA part number NCP2601633, NCP2601634, ACDelco part number 45D2344, and 45D2345. The ball joint housing may have inadequate hardness, causing premature failure.
- Consequence: A ball joint failure may cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: DRiV will work with distributors to return unsold parts. Dealers will inspect and replace the ball joint as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 17, 2022. Owners may contact DRiV customer service at 1-877-489-6659 or at [email protected].
- Model: Toyota Sequoia 2007
- Report Received Date: 2022-01-14
- Manufacturer: Tenneco Automotive
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: Tenneco Automotive (DRiV) is recalling certain aftermarket ball joints for 2004-2007 Toyota Sequoia and 2004-2006 Toyota Tundra vehicles, MOOG part number K80521, K80522, NAPA part number NCP2601633, NCP2601634, ACDelco part number 45D2344, and 45D2345. The ball joint housing may have inadequate hardness, causing premature failure.
- Consequence: A ball joint failure may cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: DRiV will work with distributors to return unsold parts. Dealers will inspect and replace the ball joint as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 17, 2022. Owners may contact DRiV customer service at 1-877-489-6659 or at [email protected].
- Model: Toyota Sequoia 2015
- Report Received Date: 2021-12-23
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain JTEKT power steering gear assembly service parts for 2007-2021 Tundra and 2008-2022 Sequoia, part numbers 44250-0C160, 44250-0C131, 44250-0C170, and 11250-0C121. The power steering gear assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in an oil leak.
- Consequence: An oil leak may cause a sudden loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the power steering gear assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on February 17, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's number for this recall is 21TH01.
Latest negative Toyota Sequoia car reviews
Latest positive Toyota Sequoia car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2022
I've come across a few reviews from both automotive journalists and customers that describe Tundras and Sequoias as outdated. However, I believe that this is precisely what makes them so impressive. While Toyota could certainly update the electronics and make some minor interior improvements, they have been making subtle changes and improvements to these models almost every year. Toyota's approach of reverse engineering means that they are constantly striving to perfect what is already there. When it comes to durability, longevity, and overall toughness, Sequoias and Tundras are the undisputed champions. I should note that we did have to replace the belt tensioner on our Sequoia at 181,000 miles, which cost $209.00 with labor. While this was disappointing, it's not too bad compared to my last 5 Fords, all of which needed new transmissions before hitting 140k.
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Vehicle year: 2011
Congratulations on your new Platinum Sequoia! It sounds like you made a great choice in upgrading from your Camry and Prius. The spacious 7-seater with its sensors all around the vehicle makes parking and maneuvering a breeze. The versatility of the Platinum is incredible, especially with the spacious 3rd row that can even recline for more room. Don't forget to add the 2nd row heated seats for those cold weather days! It's also great to hear that your IPOD and Blackberry information can be fully transferred to your main screen. And how cool is it that you got a remote starter added after market through the dealer? Enjoy your new ride!
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Vehicle year: 2003
This car is amazing! It's an SUV with a 4.7L v8, 3 rows, and 4WD center diff lock with 4 low. It's perfect for road trips, with plenty of space and comfortable leather seats. Plus, it's ready for any weather conditions, including snow and mud. And if you need to tow a heavy trailer, this car can handle it with ease!
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Vehicle year: 2001
I bought this SUV brand new in 2001 and traded in my 4 Runner. I have now driven it for nearly 100M miles and I am happy to say that I have had no mechanical problems whatsoever. It has been a great car for family vacations and for hauling my kids' stuff to college. The highway comfort and ride is the best I have experienced in any vehicle. Although it is large for hauling stuff, there is no bouncing or truck-like handling. I am pleased to report that there is no rust or rattles, and the steering and brakes are still solid after nearly 10 years. Although we don't drive off-road, the Sequoia is great in the snow here in Chicago. The speed and acceleration are good for highway passing, and the mileage is superb for a vehicle this size - even better than our Acura MDX and our friend's Explorer. Thank you for considering my review!
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Vehicle year: 2021
It's not a Landcruiser, but it does a great job in light to medium off-road, much better than its competitors (Expedition, Tahoe, Yukon, Suburban). It has the same 4wd and center locking diff that my 04 4Runner had, and also boasts 10” of ground clearance....
Are you having problems with your Toyota Sequoia?
Orrin Abbott 2025-02-17
Vehicle year: 2002
You've owned this car since it was new and it's been taken care of very well. Although the rear door handle has come off twice, the first time it was under warranty and the second time it cost $400+ to repair. The rear window motor was also replaced at the same time, which cost another $400. The turn signal has not canceled itself for the last year, which would cost $700 to fix, but you decided not to go ahead with the repair. Additionally, the interior pull handles broke a few months after purchase and the driver's seat leather (dealer installed at purchase) is torn. Lastly, the rear dome light works only one out of ten times and the dealer was unable to find the short. We're sorry to hear about these issues and we understand your frustration. Please let us know if there's anything we can do to help.
Gabe Block 2025-02-03
Vehicle year: 2023
Our experience with the 2023 Toyota Sequoia Capstone was not as positive as we had hoped. Unfortunately, due to the current circumstances, we were unable to inspect or test drive the vehicle before purchasing it. However, we were excited to try out a new full-size SUV and had narrowed our choices down to the 2023 Tahoe diesel and the Sequoia hybrid. After a three-month wait, we received our Sequoia and were disappointed to find that there was very little space in the rear of the vehicle. Despite this setback, we were able to make it work for our needs. While we were disappointed with our experience, we understand that these are unusual times and we hope that Toyota will continue to improve their vehicles in the future.The marketing line for this car could be 'A full size SUV with the space of a crossover'. While the mileage is only slightly better than that of the Expedition, the car offers ample space. However, some may find the engine noise to be artificially loud and obnoxious. The car may feel clunky and unrefined to some. As someone who has owned many new cars in my life, including two Suburbans, two Pilots, an earlier Sequoia, an Expedition and a Toureg, I found this car to be the worst designed. However, everyone's experience may differ. It's important to do your research before making a purchase. Thank you for considering this feedback.
Jeffry Thompson 2025-01-24
Vehicle year: 2003
I recently purchased an older vehicle to replace my previous car, which was a bit of a money pit. Unfortunately, while replacing the exhaust, I discovered that the frame was rotted out in the back, behind where the tail pipe muffler was located. This was quite discouraging, as I had heard that these vehicles were prone to this issue. However, I later learned that this issue mostly affected Tundras, even though they have the same frame. Despite the rust, the exterior of the vehicle looks great and the issue is not visible from underneath due to the exhaust system. I contacted Toyota and they opened a case, but unfortunately, they informed me that the vehicle had already been serviced for this issue in February 2013. It seems that the frame is rusting from the inside, and I suspect that the passenger rear corner was not treated due to the exhaust being in the way. Although I am disappointed that I may not be able to use the vehicle for towing as I had hoped, it still drives great. I plan to sell it before the rust becomes a bigger issue.
Edmund Beatty 2025-01-23
Vehicle year: 2008
Hi there! I recently had an issue with my vehicle where a metal piece fell off while I was adjusting the steering column. As a result, the column now moves up and down and can't lock into place. Unfortunately, the service team couldn't fit me in for an appointment for 2-3 weeks, which was a bit frustrating. I'm just wondering, would you feel comfortable driving a car in that condition? Personally, I wouldn't. It's not quite the Toyota quality I was expecting.
Ludwig Hansen 2025-01-23
Vehicle year: 2023
I've owned 5 Sequoias, including my current 2018 model. Unfortunately, due to work regulations, I can only keep a vehicle for 5 years to receive an auto allowance. Recently, I decided to check out the new Sequoia, but I was disappointed to find that the price had gone up while the interior room had decreased. Additionally, it felt noisier and underpowered compared to my 2018 model. It's a shame that Toyota made such a major mistake.