Here Are The Toyota Sequoia Years To Avoid
We've identified eight Toyota Sequoia years to avoid. See which years (and which Sequoia years are considered safe to buy used) so you can car shop confidently.
The Toyota Sequoia has been around for a while. It was introduced in 2001 as a full-size SUV meant to fill the gap between the Toyota Land Cruiser and the Toyota 4Runner. As it is with many cars, it comes with problems that are unique to it.
This makes it necessary to know which Toyota Sequoia years to avoid. The information provided in this article is based on the problems recorded for each model. We’ll also tell you about the Sequoia years that are safest to buy.
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Quick Answer: Avoid Toyota Sequoia Year Models 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
We recommend staying away from Toyota Sequoia models manufactured between 2001 and 2008. Compared to models made after 2008, earlier versions of this full-size SUV recorded severe defects in their construction and drivability.
The Toyota Sequoia seems to have been plagued by several issues in its early years. The most common include brake, body/paint, steering, engine, and suspension failure—these present safety issues.
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Which Toyota Sequoia Models are Safe to Buy Used?
The Sequoia has been around for about two decades now. In that time, it has gone through various changes and improvements to make it the vehicle it is today. As mentioned earlier, the first models made between 2001 and 2008 weren’t that reliable.
However, there are still plenty more to choose from that provide excellent service and reliability. Owners of these model years have reported fewer problems when compared to earlier owners. We recommend buying the following Toyota Sequoia year models:
- 2009 Toyota Sequoia
- 2010 Toyota Sequoia
- 2011 Toyota Sequoia
- 2012 Toyota Sequoia
- 2013 Toyota Sequoia
- 2014 Toyota Sequoia
- 2015 Toyota Sequoia
- 2016 Toyota Sequoia
- 2017 Toyota Sequoia
- 2018 Toyota Sequoia
- 2019 Toyota Sequoia
- 2020 Toyota Sequoia
- 2021 Toyota Sequoia
Looking at the progression of the Toyota Sequoia, it’s easy to tell that after 2008, Toyota made some significant changes to ensure the vehicle was more reliable. The first generation, which ran from 2001 to 2007, seemed to have had many problems.
The second generation brought significant improvements, such as a rear independent suspension that improved ride comfort. Models made since 2009 have produced fewer complaints. Most of the problems involve the brakes and engine.
It’s good to point out that the complaints are very few and far between. Some model years barely produced any complaints at all. For others, only one or two complaints were made. Most vehicles that registered any problems had already covered more than 100,000 miles. This shows that the Toyota Sequoia is a reliable vehicle that does not disappoint.
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Which Toyota Sequoia Years to Avoid
There are several Toyota Sequoia years that you should avoid. Most of these cover the earlier models made between 2001 and 2008. They don’t do well when offering the reliability needed by most drivers. Below is a list of Toyota Sequoia years to avoid.
- 2001 Toyota Sequoia
- 2002 Toyota Sequoia
- 2003 Toyota Sequoia
- 2004 Toyota Sequoia
- 2005 Toyota Sequoia
- 2006 Toyota Sequoia
- 2007 Toyota Sequoia
- 2008 Toyota Sequoia
The most common problems with these model years involve the brakes, steering, engine, body/paint, and suspension. Some years also came with a rear hatch handle that stops working at about 90,000 miles. Earlier Sequoias also experience severe problems as they age.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEARS FOR THE TOYOTA SEQUOIA
Read on to learn more about the Toyota Sequoia’s most reliable years, what makes them that way, the worst issues with the vehicle, and any other critical information.
Some of the worst problems reported included an erratic VSC traction control system, transmission failure, and a cracked manifold gasket. In addition, the engine may fail and die at as early as 100,000 miles. We recommend avoiding the 2002 Toyota Sequoia, which recorded the highest number of problems.
Suppose you own a 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, or 2007 Toyota Sequoia. In that case, you’re also likely to experience other problems such as a faulty rear window, a malfunctioning ABS brake, or a VCS light. Plus, issues like acceleration loss, air injection system failure, excessive rusting, rear-end clunk noises, a leaking camshaft tower, or a battery that runs down are also present.
A few of the problems pop up at 3,000 miles or thereabouts. Others are experienced when the Toyota Sequoia has more than 90,000 miles on the odometer. The 2005–2008 model years record fewer problems when compared to the 2001–2004 model years.
You can purchase any Toyota Sequoia made since 2009 with much greater peace of mind. These models perform exceptionally well and showcase the highest levels of reliability. To stay safe, we recommend staying away from all the years mentioned.
Toyota Sequoia Safety Features
The Toyota Sequoia has seen a steady development in safety features over its various model years. Newer Sequoias (2018 and later) come standard with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which includes advanced features like pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and dynamic radar cruise control.
For family buyers, the Sequoia’s most important safety features include its advanced airbag system, which includes driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags, and curtain airbags for all three rows. The Sequoia also features a rearview camera, electronic stability control, and anti-lock brakes as standard equipment.
Toyota Sequoia vs. Competitors
The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV that competes with vehicles like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, and Nissan Armada. Compared to its competitors, the Sequoia is known for its spacious interior, off-road capabilities, and reputation for reliability.
However, the Sequoia needs to catch up in some areas compared to its rivals. Its fuel economy ratings are among the lowest in the class, and its infotainment system and interior features can feel dated compared to newer competitors. Additionally, some rivals offer more advanced safety features and driver assistance technologies.
On the other hand, the Sequoia’s robust 5.7L V8 engine and towing capacity of up to 7,400 pounds make it a strong choice for those who prioritize power and capability. Its spacious third-row seating and ample cargo space also make it a popular choice for large families.
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Common Toyota Sequoia Problems
Overall, the Toyota Sequoia is a relatively reliable full-size SUV with good durability and longevity. However, it has several problems any potential buyer should know, including:
Rust issues
The Toyota Sequoia’s frame is prone to rust and corrosion, particularly in regions that use salt on the roads during winter. Repair costs for frame rust can be substantial, often exceeding $3,000 if the damage is extensive. To prevent rust, owners should regularly wash and wax their Sequoia, paying special attention to the undercarriage. Applying rust-proofing treatments and addressing any chips or scratches in the paint can also help.
Transmission problems
Earlier Sequoia models (2001-2006) are known to experience transmission issues, such as rough shifting, slipping, and complete failure. Rebuilding or replacing the transmission can cost upwards of $3,500. To extend the life of the transmission, owners should have the transmission fluid and filter changed regularly, avoid towing beyond the recommended capacity, and address any unusual noises or behaviors promptly.
Faulty oxygen sensor
The 2001-2004 Toyota Sequoia models are prone to defective oxygen sensors, causing the check engine light to illuminate and leading to rough idling and decreased fuel efficiency. Replacing an oxygen sensor typically costs between $200 and $300. Owners can help prevent premature sensor failure by using high-quality fuel and keeping the engine well-maintained.
Ball joint issue
Premature ball joint wear is common in 2001-2008 Sequoia models due to a manufacturing defect. Symptoms of worn ball joints include clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and loose steering. Replacing a single ball joint can cost $200 to $400, while replacing all four can exceed $1,000. To catch ball joint issues early, owners should have their suspension inspected regularly and address any unusual noises or handling issues promptly.
Camshaft Towers Leak
The Toyota Sequoia, particularly the 2008 model, is prone to oil leaks due to premature failure of gaskets and o-rings around the camshaft towers. These towers control the opening and closing of cylinder valves and require proper lubrication from circulating oil. When leaks occur, insufficient oil circulation puts engine components at risk of accelerated wear and potential overheating.
Neglecting to address this issue can lead to serious engine damage, making it crucial for Sequoia owners to replace all the gaskets and o-rings promptly to effectively seal the leaks and restore proper oil flow.
Cracked Exhaust Manifolds
Several Toyota Sequoia owners, specifically those with models from 2001 to 2004, have reported experiencing ticking noises emanating from the engine due to leaking exhaust manifolds. The exhaust manifold plays a vital role in directing hot exhaust gases away from the engine and into the exhaust system.
Over time, the exhaust manifold on a vehicle can develop cracks. These cracks can allow exhaust gases to escape, resulting in loud ticking sounds that are most noticeable during vehicle startup when the metal is cold. As the manifold heats up and expands, the cracks may temporarily seal, causing the noise to subside. This can lead some owners to mistakenly believe that the issue has resolved itself when, in fact, it still exists.
Never ignore a cracked exhaust manifold. If left untreated, it can reduce fuel economy, lower engine performance, and even harmful exhaust fumes entering the cabin. These gases can be dangerous to one’s health, leading to respiratory problems or even proving fatal in severe cases. To prevent further damage and ensure the safety of passengers, it’s crucial to address cracked exhaust manifolds promptly.
Toyota Sequoia Problem Counts by Year
Below is a list of the number of problems reported by owners on platforms such as Car Talk Community, Carcomplaints.com, and Carproblems.com. These problems cover all the models since the year 2001.
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Maintenance Tips for Toyota Sequoia
Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your Toyota Sequoia running smoothly and reliably. By following the recommended maintenance schedule and performing critical tasks, you can prolong the life of your vehicle and avoid costly repairs down the line.
Toyota recommends the following maintenance schedule for the Sequoia:
- Oil and filter change every 5,000 miles or 6 months
- Tire rotation every 5,000 miles
- Brake inspection every 10,000 miles
- Fluid level checks (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid) every 5,000 miles
- Air filter replacement every 30,000 miles
- Spark plug replacement every 100,000 miles
- Timing belt replacement every 90,000 miles (for models with a timing belt)
Critical maintenance tasks include regular oil changes to keep the engine lubricated and running efficiently, brake checks to ensure safety, and tire rotations to promote even wear. Additionally, keeping up with fluid level checks and replacements can prevent damage to various vehicle systems.
To further prolong the life of your Sequoia, consider the following tips:
- Avoid short trips whenever possible, as they can lead to increased engine wear
- Use high-quality parts and fluids recommended by Toyota
- Address any unusual noises, vibrations, or performance issues promptly
- Keep your Sequoia clean and protected from the elements to prevent rust and corrosion (which is common for this SUV)
- Avoid overloading your vehicle or towing beyond its recommended capacity
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