Toyota Sequoia Best and Worst Years

Toyota Sequoia Best and Worst Years (Top Picks!)

The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV that Toyota developed and descended from the Tundra pickup truck. It was released in 2000.

This car has three generations in its lineup, starting with the 2001 model year, and the 2023 model is already available.

While some have received accolades for their outstanding performance, many have been dubbed the worst Toyota Tundra in years.

All of these are covered in this essay.

Toyota Sequoia Best and Worst Years
Toyota Sequoia Best and Worst Years

VIDEO: Here’s Why The Toyota Sequoia is The Best SUV To Buy Right Now

Here’s Why The Toyota Sequoia is The Best SUV To Buy Right Now

Toyota Sequoia Best and Worst Years

According to several reports, the Toyota Sequoia’s worst years are 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005. These years are known for having issues with the steering, electrical, engine, and gearbox. On the other hand, the Toyota Sequoia performed best in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2009, and 2010. These decades are regarded as more dependable and trouble-free. On the other hand, the Toyota Sequoia has a reputation for toughness and can travel more than 300,000 kilometers in either generation.

Which Years of the Toyota Sequoia Are the Most Reliable?

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Which Years of the Toyota Sequoia Are the Most Reliable?

The most dependable Toyota Sequoia model years are listed below. Also, find out how long a Toyota Sequoia will last in the interim.

Toyota Sequoia 2009

When Toyota unveiled the 2008 model, the second generation of the Sequoia was also launched. The second iteration was extended to include models from 2008 to 2022.

The 2009 model has signaled the start of the Toyota Sequoia’s excellent years, whereas the 2008 model still receives several complaints regarding the engine.

As of the time this evaluation was being written, the 2009 Sequoia had only seven complaints on Car Complaints, the fewest of any Sequoia model years before it.

Only one report of a vehicle losing electricity due to underlying problems with the SUV’s electrical system has been made thus far. Additionally, the complaint stated that electrical problems have continued to plague Sequoia and haven’t caused any significant concerns in the 2009 model.

The 2009 Toyota Sequoia didn’t fall short of the high praise received by reviewers for most Sequoia models. Of 180 reviews, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) also awards the SUV a 4.7/5 rating, while Edmunds offers it a 4.8/5 rating.

In addition, the SR5 of the 2009 Toyota Sequoia now offers a sport package as an alternative. With 20-inch wheels, foglights, a back spoiler, a color-keyed grille, and a power driver seat, Toyota refers to this kit as the SX.

Toyota Sequoia 2011

Another reliable variant is the 2011 Toyota Sequoia. Although it receives few user complaints on Car Complaints, it has outperformed many of its rivals regarding general efficiency.

With a score of 8.3/10 overall, US News places this model third out of eight among reasonably priced big SUVs. Aside from that, it won the 2011 US News award for the finest reasonably priced large SUV for families.

This SUV has received acclaim from other reviewers for its adaptability and user-friendly features. The car also claims a much improved 310 horsepower and a towing capacity of up to 7,400 pounds.

Toyota Sequoia 2015

Another impressive vehicle is the 2015 Toyota Sequoia, which has received few to no significant customer complaints. Although it has a high-reliability grade, unlike some of its predecessors, it also has excellent driving dynamics.

However, US News rates it third out of six in 2015 for affordable large SUVs, with an overall score of 8/10, due to its poor fuel economy and average cabin materials. In addition, numerous additional Sequoia versions performed poorly.

In addition, this generation’s Toyota Sequoia sunroof and the rearview camera became standard equipment.

Which Toyota Sequoia Model Years Must Be Avoided?

Which Toyota Sequoia Model Years Must Be Avoided?
Which Toyota Sequoia Model Years Must Be Avoided?

Avoid buying a Toyota Sequoia from the following model years:

Toyota Sequoia 2002

Of all the Sequoia model years, the 2002 Toyota Sequoia has the most problems. This vehicle has had 1,186 complaints on Car Complaints since this piece was written, demonstrating how problematic it can be.

The brake, the motor, the steering, and the electrical system are among the many problems with the model that have received the most criticism. But, again, this demonstrates how terrible this strategy is for the car company.

Every car needs its brake, engine, and steering to function correctly. When they are not in the proper condition, the car is open to danger and unpredictable behavior.

Many users have complained about hearing a grinding or clunking sound when applying the brake. That’s even reasonable when contrasted to how the antilock brake spontaneously engages while driving.

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Additionally, numerous owners have expressed concern that the vehicle loses stability and steering power while the VSC and traction control caution lights are illuminated.

This indicates a problem with the stability control monitor in the car.

Aside from these problems, reviewers give the 2002 Toyota Sequoia high marks for general performance. KBB, SureCritic, and Edmunds all give it 4.8/5 ratings, while KBB gives it 4.6/5.

Toyota Sequoia from 2001

The 2001 Toyota Sequoia has 894 complaints as of the time of composing this review on Car Complaints. The brake, the engine, and the steering are the main areas of worry for most users, just like with its successor.

This vehicle is infamous for its defective stability control system, lousy steering, bad suspension, and grinding sounds.

Additionally, when a vehicle’s stability control system malfunctions, it frequently experiences sudden deceleration and steering failure, which can put the driver in danger, particularly on the freeway.

The frame of this car rusts up rapidly, which is another frequent problem. This issue has persisted with the 2001 model despite being widespread across many Sequoia versions.

It’s essential to remember that there have been numerous complaints about the failure of the lower ball joint on the driver’s side. This frequently impacts the car’s wheels and tires.

However, aside from the problems brought on by user complaints, this vehicle has also garnered excellent reviews from reviewers. Edmunds gives it a 4.6/5 rating, while KBB gives it a 4.8/5.

A vehicle review will only pay attention to how well it performed overall during a test or set of tests. To discover a vehicle’s actual problems, owners must put it through more rigorous actual testing after using it for a while.

Toyota Sequoia 2003

Like numerous Toyota Sequoia models, the 2003 model has received favorable evaluations from critics. It received a 4.8 KBB rating of 598 reviews and a 4.7 Edmunds rating of 309 customer reviews.

Although this car’s general performance has been praised, the ride quality could be better.

Additionally, it has received 906 complaints, including 382 complaints about just its stop.

This variant still exhibits VSC, traction, and ABS dash lights issues. This implies that the 2003 Sequoia model still has recurrent issues with the braking, steering, lighting, and transmission systems.

Toyota Sequoia 2004

Additionally, the 2004 Toyota Sequoia has inherited the problems of its forebears. When this evaluation was written, it had also racked up 600 user complaints on Car Complaints.

The brake continues to be the primary area of concern among these clusters of unfavorable feedback.

Even though this is the fourth Sequoia model that Toyota has released, the common VSC and traction lights, erratic stopping, and failing steering problems continue to exist.

Additionally, this model’s brakes could perform better. Many proprietors have noted a variety of abnormalities, including its sometimes stiff and mushy impression.

This car’s weak back hatch handle, which many owners have also complained about, is a unique problem. Yet, despite all of these problems, reviewers have also given the 2004 Toyota Sequoia high marks. Edmunds gives it a rating of 4.6/5, but KBB gives it a 4.7/5.

Furthermore, Toyota had already conducted several recalls to address most of the problems with these model years. Therefore, using the vehicle and having a fun experience is possible.

Toyota Sequoia 2005

The 2005 Toyota Sequoia model, like all of its predecessors, did not perform any better on the complaints notable for the first set of Sequoias.

Additionally, this model has garnered 564 complaints on Car Complaints, with the brake and motor receiving most of the negative reviews.

The 2005 model now has a motor that produces 282 horsepower and 325 lb. ft. of torque, thanks to improvements made by Toyota. However, Toyota has paid less attention to the parts heavily critiqued in Sequoia.

More would be anticipated of the 2005 models after four models. However, its electrical and braking systems continue to be criticized by more than 200 individuals.

This indicates that the 2005 model still has a severe problem with the traction and VSC lights turning on as the car unexpectedly slows down.

The 2005 Toyota Sequoia has received some favorable evaluations from critics. The ratings from Edmunds are 4.6/5, Carfax is 4.9/5, and KBB is 4.8/5. That demonstrates that this car is good to travel in.

How Safe Is Toyota Sequoia?

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How Safe Is Toyota Sequoia?

There have occasionally been safety issues with the Toyota Sequoia, especially in the early model years. The Toyota Sequoia’s worst years were 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005 because they had severe design and drivability flaws.

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However, the Toyota Sequoia’s more recent versions are thought to be more dependable and robust. The Toyota Sequoia, which shares many driveline parts with the Land Cruiser, a vehicle renowned for its durability, should be fine, lasting up to 300,000 miles for either generation.

Overall, the Toyota Sequoia is a dependable SUV, but to ensure its longevity and safety, it is best to stay away from the earlier model years and conduct routine maintenance.

Reliability of Toyota Sequoia

Depending on the model year, the Toyota Sequoia has varying levels of dependability. The older model years, especially those produced between 2001 and 2008, have been linked to severe construction and driving defects.

The Toyota Sequoia’s more recent models, especially those created after 2009, have proven more dependable and problem-free. The Toyota Sequoia performs best in the following years: 2019, 2020, 2021; 2009, 2010, 2011; and 2018; and worst in the following years: 2001, 2002, 2003; 2004, 2005; and 2008.

Given the Toyota Sequoia’s reputation for toughness and longevity, either version should be able to reach 300,000 miles.

The need for routine upkeep, such as replacing the timing belt and water pump after 90,000 miles, and rust problems should be made clear to prospective buyers.

How to find the best deals on a Toyota Sequoia?

Start by looking for any current discounts and incentives on the official Toyota website to discover the best deals on a Toyota Sequoia.

Additionally, Edmunds offers details on discounts and rewards for the 2022 Toyota Sequoia. It’s crucial to avoid older model years, especially those produced between 2001 and 2008, as they needed to have improved their design and usability.

The Toyota Sequoia’s more recent versions, especially those created after 2009, are more dependable and robust. Additionally, it’s crucial to learn about the Toyota Sequoia’s model year’s most typical issues, such as rust problems and the requirement for routine upkeep.

Finally, you can haggle with the seller to get the Toyota Sequoia for the best price.

Tips for maintaining your Toyota Sequoia

Tips for maintaining your Toyota Sequoia
Tips for maintaining your Toyota Sequoia

It’s crucial to adhere to the suggested maintenance plan for your Toyota Sequoia, which calls for frequent oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections.

After 90,000 miles, the first model Toyota Sequoia, built between 2001 and 2007, needs a new timing belt and water pump. The Toyota Sequoia’s second version, produced from 2008 to now, has yet to undergo significant updates since it first debuted and is more dependable.

It’s also critical to be knowledgeable about typical problems with the Toyota Sequoia, like faulty Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) systems.

The Toyota Sequoia’s first ten years of service will cost about $6,202 for routine maintenance and repairs, less than the industry standard for popular SUV versions.

You can also visit the official Toyota website for current offers and incentives on the Toyota Sequoia.

How Can You Tell Whether Something Is a Lemon?

Purchase a vehicle history report.

There is no better initial step when purchasing a used car than to obtain a car history report. Two well-known services offer this information for little money: Anyone looking to purchase a used car will find the information provided by CarFax and AutoCheck extremely helpful.

The reports let you know the number of past owners, whether or not it had any accidents, how frequently it required maintenance, and the current title.

The final section is among the most crucial since it contains the lemon label, which attests that the car followed the correct legal procedures to be designated as a lemon.

However, in some areas, dealers must inform a customer if the vehicle is a manufacturer buyback, which is a reliable way to determine whether a vehicle has a lemon title.

However, it is the responsibility of the buyer to conduct a thorough investigation into the vehicle’s history. Therefore, consumers may need help if they accidentally purchase a secondhand lemon because they must inspect it first.

Owner Background

You can view the owner’s history on the vehicle history report, which should indicate whether the manufacturer has purchased the vehicle back.

While owners can claim a car is a lemon in a legal dispute and ask the automaker to buy back the problematic vehicle, that is a guaranteed technique to determine if the car was labeled a lemon.

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You can also determine if the vehicle was sold or traded before it was given a lemon tag if the prior owner may have missed an issue. It also implies that the car’s persistent issue must be apparent.

Repair Record

Look carefully at the vehicle’s repair record and try to identify any recurring issues. Recurring problems in cars with lemon histories are simple to spot. You can determine whether the issues with the car are minor wear and tear concerns, such as those with the clutch or brakes, or a more severe problem.

Check to discover if the repairs were necessary or carried out even when the car was brand new. It can assist in determining whether the car is a lemon or if an incident like a collision or modification caused a misdiagnosed issue.

Are the repairs significant or minor? A severe repair would deal with the drivetrain or suspension, whereas a superficial one would address non-driving-related issues like window or seat controls.

Severe repairs would be more challenging, but handling a car might not be a hassle if a car was considered a lemon for a less severe cause.

The report also shows whether repairs are being made at a dealership or a general shop. Like you would with any used car, examine the vehicle’s general condition and health and determine whether routine maintenance has also been carried out.

This will assist you in deciding whether or not you should consider purchasing this car.

Inspection before purchase

Is the car still a good investment? You should get a pre-purchase inspection if the flaws are not too concerning or if you believe the automobile may have been incorrectly labeled as a lemon.

A mechanic can determine whether the problems are repairable and why the car was considered a lemon.

A technician can assist you in determining whether or not a recurring issue is indicative of more severe problems or worries about the quality of the vehicle.

Their satisfaction with the car might help determine if it is a worthwhile investment or a lost cause.

Toyota Sequoia FAQ’s

What is the Toyota Sequoia’s finest year?

The 2016 Toyota Sequoia is the finest, according to carschtuff.com, because it has outstanding road reliability. In addition to having contemporary features, the 2016 Toyota Sequoia maintains ease and stability while driving. No matter how good a driver you are, it’s a fine vehicle.

Is the Toyota Sequoia a dependable car?

Overall Reliability Scores: How Reliable Is the Toyota Sequoia? The Toyota Sequoia has a reliability score of 83.55 overall, which is very dependable. The exact rankings of this car in relation to various other cars are shown in the chart below, however as a point of reference, the average overall rating is 57.

How durable are Toyota Sequoia engines?

300,000 kilometers

What Sequoia variant is the best?

The Capstone, which is positioned as the most opulent model of this three-row SUV, is the Sequoia’s highest trim level. In addition to exterior chrome accents, 22-inch chrome rims, power running boards, and semi-aniline perforated black and white leather-trimmed seats, the Sequoia Capstone edition goes above and beyond the Platinum model.

Can Sequoia be trusted as much as Land Cruiser?

Both the Toyota Sequoia and the Land Cruiser are incredibly dependable automobiles. The Sequoia employs automatic emergency braking and a cautionary forward collision warning. The Sequoia also has lane-departure alert, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control as additional safety features.

Lead Writer and Editor at Discover Seldric | + posts

John Valdez - Passionate Car Enthusiast and Accomplished Writer

Meet John Valdez, a dedicated car lover and seasoned writer whose passion for automobiles is as vibrant as his words are eloquent. With a keen eye for detail and a heart that beats to the rhythm of engines, John brings a unique blend of expertise and enthusiasm to the world of automotive journalism.

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