2021 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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Common 2021 Toyota Sequoia problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Toyota Sequoia 2021, several common problems have been reported:
- Brakes Issues: Owners have raised concerns about brake problems in the Toyota Sequoia. This includes complaints about brake performance, potential failures, or issues related to the braking system. Brake problems can significantly impact the safety and drivability of the vehicle, making it a crucial area for attention and potential maintenance.
- Electrical Problems: Another common complaint among Toyota Sequoia owners is related to electrical issues. These problems may involve issues with the vehicle's electrical system, such as malfunctions in the wiring, fuses, lights, or other electrical components. Electrical problems can lead to various issues, including safety concerns and operational disruptions.
- Exterior Concerns: Owners have reported complaints regarding the exterior of the Toyota Sequoia. These complaints may include issues with the vehicle's body, paint, exterior lights, or other external features. Exterior problems can affect the aesthetics, functionality, and overall condition of the vehicle, requiring attention and potential repairs.
- Engine Troubles: Engine-related problems have also been highlighted by Toyota Sequoia owners. These complaints may involve issues with the engine performance, reliability, or specific components within the engine system. Engine problems can impact the vehicle's power, efficiency, and overall driving experience, necessitating thorough inspection and potential repairs.
- Interior Challenges: Complaints have been raised about interior issues in the Toyota Sequoia. These concerns may encompass problems with the vehicle's interior features, comfort, controls, or other interior components. Interior problems can affect the overall driving experience, passenger comfort, and the vehicle's overall appeal, requiring attention and potential maintenance.
- Transmission Failures: Owners have expressed concerns about transmission failures in the Toyota Sequoia. Transmission issues can lead to significant drivability problems, affecting gear shifting, acceleration, and overall performance. Addressing transmission failures promptly is crucial to ensure the vehicle's safe operation and longevity.
- VSC/Traction Control Engages: Some owners have reported issues with the vehicle's VSC/traction control system engaging for no reason. This can impact the vehicle's stability and handling, potentially leading to safety concerns while driving. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain safe driving conditions.
These common problems reported by Toyota Sequoia owners highlight various areas of concern that may impact the vehicle's performance, safety, and overall ownership experience. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and thorough inspections can help address these issues and ensure the Toyota Sequoia operates smoothly and reliably.
Is the 2021 Sequoia a good car?
With three rows of seats and a suite of standard driver-assistance technology, the Sequoia is relevant only to families who want a large SUV with Toyota's reputation for reliability. Inside, there's an impressive amount of space for all passengers, but the material quality and overall refinement are disappointing.
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.
What is the best year for a Toyota Sequoia?
Pretty much any model from its second generation is considered a solid choice, but these are the five most reliable Toyota Sequoia model years.
- 2015. Darthart/Getty Images. The 2015 Toyota Sequoia is one of the best models of its entire run. ...
- 2013. Bloomberg/Getty Images. ...
- 2016. RL GNZLZ. ...
- 2011. RL GNZLZ. ...
- 2020. Bull-Doser.
Is Toyota Sequoia a reliable vehicle?
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.
Is Toyota Sequoia a reliable car?
The 2024 Toyota Sequoia has a predicted reliability score of 75 out of 100.
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.
How long will a Toyota Sequoia engine last?
The Toyota Land Cruiser and the Toyota Sequoia both offer a potential lifespan of more than 300,000 miles. These used SUVs for sale near you are built to withstand off-road driving, and built with resilient components.
Do Toyota Sequoias rust?
A common problem with the Toyota Sequoia is its susceptibility to rust.
2021 Toyota Sequoia car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Toyota Sequoia problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Toyota Sequoia vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2021 Toyota Sequoia complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Toyota Sequoia.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-30
- 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.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-19
- 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.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-08
- 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.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-11
- VIN: 5TDEY5B17MS
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: My cars suspension (driver side shock) has been making creaking, grinding, and/or knocking noise when traversing over mild bumps or road defects at slow speeds. The sound can be replicate by bouncing the car up and down. I am concerned my suspension components will fail under prematurely or under extreme stress. Noted, I brought my car to Toyota for inspection on 2/11/22 and they were not able to replicate the sound. Subsequently I found this related TSB: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2020/MC-10181779-9999.pdf. Additionally noted, I have a TRD pro model with a similar setup as far as suspension. I believe the known defect in the 2019-2020 TRD pros (4Runners) applies here. Lastly, there is such a small population or TRD Pro Sequoias (only manufactured for 3 years 2020-2022) I’m concerned it’s not enough to create demand for a TSB.
2021 Toyota Sequoia recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2021 Toyota Sequoia.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2022 Sequoia and 2007-2021 Tundra vehicles. 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 as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 21, 2022. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 21TB10 and 21TA10.
Negative 2021 Toyota Sequoia car reviews
Positive 2021 Toyota Sequoia car reviews
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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....
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A large body on truck frame, not a fake crossover truck on a car platform. You can rely on its durability and it has great resale value. It can also tow or 4-wheel if needed.
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After considering the Yukon and Expedition options, I ultimately chose the 2019 Sequoia Platinum. It may not have all the latest bells and whistles like cylinder deactivation, turbos, or a variable transmission, but what it does have is tried and true. The V-8 engine is both smooth and powerful, and the engineering is time-tested in all the right places, such as a simple transmission and low axle ratio. This gives me peace of mind knowing that it is rock-solid dependable. Additionally, it has a functional cargo space, updated safety features, and overall comfort. While it may not be the flashiest or most attractive vehicle out there, it gets the job done and is known to last for 150-200k miles without any major issues. Of course, it would be great to have better fuel economy, more towing capacity, less sensitive steering, and a larger info screen, but overall, I am very satisfied with my decision.
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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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I've had my 2018 SR5 for a year now and it has been absolutely reliable. It tows a 7,000 lb trailer with ease and is surprisingly capable off-road. I've even driven through several creeks and thick muddy roads and fields while out hunting. It's planted and confidence-inspiring on icy mountain roads, making it perfect for long road trips with the family, pup, and camping gear. The Sequoia is big enough to sleep in comfortably with the middle seat folded down and a piece of plywood to bridge the gap between the second and third row of seats. It's also surprisingly fast for an SUV this big, thanks to the engine and transmission combo that work really well. The adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitors, and corner sonar indicators make it really comfortable to drive for such a big vehicle. The turn radius is really shockingly tight. However, the gas mileage is just terrible, really comically bad. I usually don't even get to 15 mpg on a tank, usually 14mpg combined, and maybe 17 mpg on a road trip with all highway use. Update: I've now owned the Sequoia for 2 years and have put 50,000 miles on it, bringing it to 70,000 miles total. I love my Sequoia! It has had no maintenance problems and is the road tripping king! With a roof cargo rack and trailer hitch carrier, I was able to pack 6 people, a 50lb dog, and gear for a week into it. We even dropped off our luggage and headed up the mountains far past a “turn around you’ll get stuck” sign. Edit: 2023 - still loving it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Toyota Sequoia problems:
Toyota Sequoia Common Problems to Look For Before Buying One ...
Jan 3, 2024 ... A Toyota Specialist shares common problems to look for before buying a 2008-2022 Toyota Sequoia. We return to a format we haven't done in ...
2021 Toyota Sequoia Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2021 Toyota Sequoia? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2021 Toyota Sequoia Platinum - YouTube
Mar 31, 2021 ... ... 19:18 · Go to channel · Toyota Sequoia Common Problems to Look For Before Buying One. The Car Care Nut•87K views · 29:30 · Go to channel ...
2023 Toyota Sequoia - Such a Disappointment : r/toyotasequoia
Aug 9, 2022 ... In addition to the interior changes that are not family friendly, we have had multiple issues with the car...the trim on the drivers seat ...
Battle: 2023 Toyota Sequoia vs Previous Generation! - YouTube
Feb 7, 2023 ... Who wins? This is a 2023 Sequoia Platinum vs 2021 Sequoia ... This is a 2023 Sequoia Platinum vs 2021 Sequoia ... Toyota Sequoia Common Problems to ...
Other years of Toyota Sequoia
Are you having problems with your 2021 Toyota Sequoia?
Zackary Harber 2024-09-03
I recently rented a Sequoia for a week and found it to be an average vehicle in terms of quality, power, handling, and overall build. The interior was similar to what you would find in any entry-level sport utility vehicle. However, I did find the ride to be a bit unbalanced and not as compliant as some comparable models such as the Tahoe, Denali, Explorer, or Expedition. In my opinion, it felt more like driving a 3/4 ton pickup truck than a comfortable SUV. Overall, I would not personally consider purchasing this vehicle.
Muhammad Volkman 2024-07-22
When this version of the Sequoia was released, George W. Bush was President (2007). It seems like Toyota is ready for a change. Although I loved my 2006 Sequoia, I think this generation is not as visually appealing. The dashboard and tech features are outdated, and the plastic interior could use an upgrade. I believe Toyota has the potential to do better and I look forward to seeing what they come up with next!
Peyton Gutkowski 2024-07-13
This car may require frequent trips to the gas station. Additionally, it may not provide the smoothest ride as it can be quite loud and jerky when shifting gears. When starting from a stop, it may also feel sluggish. However, we understand that everyone has different preferences when it comes to cars, so we encourage you to test drive it and see if it's the right fit for you!
Trace Wiegand 2024-03-19
I recently purchased a 2019 Sequoia Limited, but unfortunately, I have found the leather seats to be quite uncomfortable. Additionally, I was surprised to find that there is no gas cap lever located next to the driver's seat, which seems like an outdated feature. Instead, I have to manually open the gas cap from the outside, which is not very convenient. Another issue I have encountered is difficulty syncing my mobile phone with Entune, as the integration is not very smooth. Lastly, I was disappointed to find that there is no armrest by the front seats. Overall, I feel that Toyota may have cut corners to save money when designing this SUV, and I am not entirely satisfied with my purchase.
Riley Lindgren 2024-03-01
This car has a very poor gas mileage, averaging only 11 MPG's despite my efforts to drive conservatively. I have owned trucks and SUV's before and have never experienced such low fuel efficiency. Based on my experience, I would not recommend this car to anyone who is concerned about fuel consumption.