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: 2017
We have used this Sequoia for almost everything. It worked flawlessly when we hauled a large vacation trailer through Canada (8,000 miles) and has plenty of power to go anywhere. There is lots of room for people and storage, and it appears to be designed for easy driving with a great turning radius. Maintenance has been minimal, except for the brakes, which have been problematic. The rotors heat up and warp, causing them to 'bounce' when you apply the brakes. We have had to replace the brakes and rotors several times, and unfortunately, the problem reoccurs.
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Vehicle year: 2013
You made an excellent choice with this vehicle! It's great to hear that you and your wife were so impressed with it right from the start. Not only is it a pleasure to drive, but it's also incredibly capable - even when towing a 5,000 lb boat! The interior is well-designed and very functional, with flexible seating that provides plenty of room for everyone. It's clear that a lot of thought went into making this vehicle as comfortable and convenient as possible. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2001
This has been a great vehicle! Just passed 322,000 and still going strong.
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Vehicle year: 2005
After searching for a few months for my second vehicle, I finally decided to go with the Seq. I looked at different models and styles such as MDX, RX330, Expedition, minivans, BMW740, GX470, VWs, Landcrusier, etc. I test drove a lot of different vehicles, but my gut feeling tells me that this is the one that suits me and my family. I have been a proud owner of the Seq for 1.5 months now and it has proven to be the best fit for us. Not a single problem at all and the fuel mpg is at 14.7 showing in the trip computer, which is not too bad as I thought it would be. The RWD mode drives like a BMW X5 in cornering.
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Vehicle year: 2011
This is my second Toyota SUV and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed! We previously owned a 2000 Land Cruiser which was also amazing. After trading our Lexus GX470 for the Sequoia, we are back to Toyota and we couldn't be happier. The Sequoia is perfect for our family as it is spacious enough to accommodate kids and strollers. The towing capacity is also fantastic, which is a huge plus. It's amazing how you no longer have to buy an Escalade or something similar to tow 10,000 pounds. GM, watch out! Although I have a few complaints about the Sequoia, such as the lack of a front middle parking sensor and personalized settings for the front seats, it is still an overall great truck.
Are you having problems with your Toyota Sequoia?
Wendell Ryan 2025-03-29
Vehicle year: 2001
Hello there! Thank you for considering this SUV. While it may have some issues, such as brakes that need replacement too often, doors that won't stay open, and a poor speaker system, it still has a lot to offer. We understand that getting to the rear seats may not be the easiest, but we hope that you'll find the overall experience enjoyable. Thank you again for your interest!
Johnathan Becker 2025-03-25
Vehicle year: 2002
Great truck! Although it may be a bit overpriced, it's perfect for long distance travel. However, it may be a bit difficult to use as an everyday vehicle.
Antwon Heathcote 2025-03-21
Vehicle year: 2002
The truck has proven to be a reliable vehicle, particularly in challenging weather conditions such as snow and rain. However, there have been some minor mechanical issues, including power locks, windows, and antennas, that required repairs. Despite being out of warranty, these repairs cost over $2,000. In order to improve the truck, Toyota should consider implementing fold-flat middle and rear seats that do not take up as much storage space when removed. Additionally, the engine could benefit from a slight power boost.
Erwin Altenwerth 2025-03-17
Vehicle year: 2003
I have driven my SUV for 120,000 miles to date. Fortunately, the warranty covers the new VSC board. However, it was frustrating to have to visit the dealer five times to figure out why the interior VSC light and brake light kept coming on. Currently, at 115,000 miles, the brake light comes on intermittently, which can be scary as it affects the truck's braking. This happened to me a few weeks ago while driving in the snow, and I had to restart the engine to reset the brakes, which was challenging on the highway. As someone who bought a Toyota for its reliability, I have been disappointed with these issues. Even the oil gauge stopped working when I drove it off the lot, despite being brand new and costing $48,000. It took three trips to the dealer before they could fix it.
Rodger Schneider 2025-03-07
Vehicle year: 2023
The 2008 platinum model we have is fully equipped. We waited to upgrade until the new body style was released. Unfortunately, the website does not reveal the vehicle's negative aspects. The new version is quite loud and small, which makes it unsuitable for our needs. We used it as a truck to haul heavy items, but the new version does not allow for that. The third row has a hump that prevents us from comfortably fitting our family and hauling items. The lack of a console between the captain seats in the upper models is also a deal-breaker for us. We require a comfortable and spacious vehicle with ample storage space. Overall, the new version does not meet our needs and expectations.