The Toyota Sequoia stands out in its class because of its unrivaled balance of elegance and capability in a single, unbeatable package. Since around 2009, Toyota’s full-size SUV, the Sequoia, has been relatively problem-free.
Even though the Sequoia name is known for reliability and top-notch quality, some models have fallen short of expectations. This article will tell you which model years of the Toyota Sequoia to avoid and which to prioritize if you want to make a wise buy.
Toyota Sequoia years to avoid include 2001-2005, 2008, and 2009; they are considered the worst. The best years for Toyota Sequoia include 2011, 2015, and 2018-2023. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmund, JD Power, and Kelley Blue Book.
Toyota Sequoia Years To Avoid
There are a few bad Toyota Sequoia years to avoid. Most of these apply to older models from 2001-2009. They fall short of providing the reliability that most drivers require. The worst years for the Toyota Sequoia that you should avoid are listed below:
- 2001 Toyota Sequoia
- 2002 Toyota Sequoia
- 2003 Toyota Sequoia
- 2004 Toyota Sequoia
- 2005 Toyota Sequoia
- 2008 Toyota Sequoia
- 2009 Toyota Sequoia
7. Worst Year: 2009 Toyota Sequoia (3.97 Rating)
Although there are some engine-related issues about the 2008 model, the 2009 model appears to have brought in the Toyota Sequoia’s best years, so I decided to place it dead last on the list.
Only six people have complained about the 2009 Sequoia on NHTSA, fewer than any other year’s model in the list. So far, only one report of the SUV losing power due to underlying electrical problems has been received for this model.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 9 recalls and 6 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.8/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer ratings.
6. Worst Year: 2008 Toyota Sequoia (3.94 Rating)
Toyota Sequoia’s second generation began in 2008 and saw substantial improvements in both durability and general quality. The 2008 model still requires caution because it shares several problems with its predecessors.
The 2008 Sequoia was criticized for its harsh ride and premature exhaust manifold fracture. Some drivers have complained that the seatbelt won’t return after being used, and other accessories like airbags wear out quickly.
The 2008 Sequoia was an improvement but was still dangerous due to its clumsy and unreliable handling.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 9 recalls and 62 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.8/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 83/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer ratings.
5. Worst Year: 2001 Toyota Sequoia (3.81 Rating)
At the time of this review’s publication, 524 complaints had been filed against the 2001 Toyota Sequoia. The brakes, the engine, and the steering are the main focus points for most drivers, just like they were for the previous model.
The stability control system, the suspension, and the grinding noise are all common complaints about this vehicle. Furthermore, whenever the vehicle’s stability control system fails, the vehicle frequently encounters unexpected deceleration and steering failure, which can be dangerous for the driver, especially on the highway.
This vehicle’s frame rusts easily, which is another problem for many people. Multiple reports of the lower ball joint on the driver’s side failed.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 3 recalls and 524 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.8/5.0 consumer ratings.
4. Worst Year: 2004 Toyota Sequoia (3.51 Rating)
The 2004 Toyota Sequoia appears to have inherited the problems that plagued its forerunners. As of the time of this review’s publication, it also had 604 complaints on Car Complaints. The break remains the primary source of worry among these collections of negative comments.
The other commonly reported issues are the common VSC and traction lights, unpredictable braking, and failed steering difficulties.
The model’s brake performance also falls short of expectations. Several owners have noted various issues, such as a mushy and sometimes rigid feel. Moreover, Many automobile owners have complained about the car’s fragile rear hatch handle.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 9 recalls and 369 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.7/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.8/5.0 consumer ratings.
3. Worst Year: 2005 Toyota Sequoia (3.34 Rating)
The 2005 Toyota Sequoia was no different from its forerunners in terms of the problems that plagued the first models. There are now 348 complaints about this model, most related to the vehicle’s brakes and engine. Additional research reveals that certain 2005 Sequoias experienced acceleration problems.
After four previous models, there would be higher expectations for the 2005 models. Still, over 200 customers have complained about defective wiring and brakes. Unfortunately, this means that the 2005 model year still suffers from severe problems with the traction and VSC lights activating as the vehicle suddenly slows down.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 11 recalls and 348 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.8/5.0 consumer ratings.
2. Worst Year: 2003 Toyota Sequoia (3.25 Rating)
Many people were dissatisfied with the 2001 and 2002 models; therefore, high hopes were placed on this model. Sadly, the 2003 model year offers no improvements. Users experienced paint chipping and braking problems. They also complained that the ABS lights would randomly start flashing too brightly.
Numerous reports of brake problems and failures of the back hatch handle rendered the vehicle immobile. In addition, there are also rust and corrosion weaken the frame’s structural integrity.
When the brake light comes on, the brakes will not work. Unexpected illumination of the VSC/Trac indicator is also noticed. The 2003 model year is similarly terrible and should be avoided at all costs.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 7 recalls and 671 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.7/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.8/5.0 consumer ratings.
1. Worst Year: 2002 Toyota Sequoia (3.12 Rating)
So, the Sequoia from 2002 is officially the worst model ever produced. As of this writing, this model has been around for more than twenty years. Compared to any other model, it receives by far the most complaints.
Several vehicle evaluations and owners agree that the 2002 Toyota Sequoia is the worst of all time, with the most reported problems and recalls issued. Several users complained that the warning lights would occasionally go off for no apparent reason.
A broken rear hatch handle is another common problem, as is the easy damage of the door handle.
Several users have also reported issues with the engine, including it shutting down unexpectedly and resulting in collisions. Other problems are faulty transmission, unanticipated braking action, and inexplicable VSC or VSC/Trac indicator illumination.
We’ve never seen a Toyota Sequoia this bad. There’s no good reason for you to put money into it.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 8 recalls and 683 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.8/5.0 consumer ratings.
Toyota Sequoia Years To Buy As Used
The Sequoia has been on the market for roughly 20 years. As was said before, models produced between 2001 and 2009 were notoriously unreliable. However, many others are still available, all of which are high-quality options. We suggest the following model years of the Toyota Sequoia:
- 2011 Toyota Sequoia
- 2015 Toyota Sequoia
- 2018 Toyota Sequoia
- 2019 Toyota Sequoia
- 2020 Toyota Sequoia
- 2021 Toyota Sequoia
- 2022 Toyota Sequoia
- 2023 Toyota Sequoia
8. Best Year: 2011 Toyota Sequoia (3.99 Rating)
The Toyota Sequoia from the 2011 model year is a reliable vehicle. It has outperformed many of its rivals and received few user complaints.
US News gives this vehicle an 8.3 out of 10 overall, placing it third among inexpensive large SUVs. On top of all that, US News named it 2011’s best affordable large SUV for families.
This SUV has been lauded by critics everywhere for its adaptability and user-friendliness. The truck now has 310 horsepower and can tow up to 7,400 pounds.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 7 recalls and 15 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 82/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer and 2.9 expert ratings.
7. Best Year: 2019 Toyota Sequoia (4.01 Rating)
According to iSeeCars.com, a 2019 poll found that the Sequoia ranked second for the SUVs that participants expected to last more than 200,000 miles. According to J.D. Power, it is the fourth-best Large SUV.
The 2019 Toyota Sequoia has received many awards for its reliability, luxury, and security. NHTSA has had a few complaints about it. The roomy trunk and accommodating third-row seats are two features that owners consistently praise.
The Sequoia is surprisingly manageable for a vehicle of its size. You won’t have to worry about the car’s technology because it comes standard with Toyota’s Safety Sense P driver assistance and a top-notch infotainment system. The 2019 Sequoia is regarded as one of the industry’s finest vehicles.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 6 recalls and 2 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.0/5.0 consumer and 6.9/10 expert ratings.
- J.D. Power: 77/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer and 3.8 expert ratings.
6. Best Year: 2018 Toyota Sequoia (4.02 Rating)
The 2018 Sequoia is another good model year to buy as used. The exterior of the full-size SUV received significant updates for 2018. These included new LED headlights, fog lights, and running lights as standard equipment.
It also has cutting-edge safety aids, including automatic braking and cruise control. The previous three trims now have a fourth option: the TRD sport trim.
Some more characteristics of this generation are high-performance tires and dampers, standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay with Lane-Keeping Assist, and a system for detecting blind spots.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 5 recalls and 17 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.2/5.0 consumer and 6.6/10 expert ratings.
- J.D. Power: 80/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer and 3.9 expert ratings.
5. Best Year: 2021 Toyota Sequoia (4.14 Rating)
In fact, the 2021 model is included in the list as well. The problem with Sequoia is that it hasn’t been updated much by the manufacturer, which prevents it from ranking higher. As for the SUV, the 2021 model is identical to the 2020 one.
The same 5.7L V8 engine can be found under the hood of this vehicle. It gives an excellent performance. Many owners also praise the vehicle’s exceptional towing capabilities. It has a lot of amenities, including a sound infotainment system and tools to help the driver.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 1 complaint.
- Edmunds: 4.1/5.0 consumer and 6.9/10 expert ratings.
- J.D. Power: 78/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer and 3.6 expert ratings.
4. Best Year: 2022 Toyota Sequoia (4.14 Rating)
The 2022 Toyota Sequoia is an excellent option for consumers for a large SUV. However, Toyota did not alter the Sequoia lineup significantly for 2022. Wind Chill Pearl paint is the only change since it replaces Blizzard Pearl and Super White.
The lone powertrain option for the 2022 Sequoia is a 381-horsepower V-8 connected to a six-speed automated and driving the rear wheels or all four. The maximum payload that a properly equipped Sequoia may tow is 7,400 pounds.
Consumer Reports suggests upgrading from the standard SR5 model by purchasing the Premium package, which adds niceties such as heated leather seats and a navigation system to the already well-equipped truck.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 1 complaint.
- Edmunds: 4.1/5.0 consumer and 6.9/10 expert ratings.
- J.D. Power: 78/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer and 3.6 expert ratings.
3. Best Year: 2020 Toyota Sequoia (4.19 Rating)
The 2020 Toyota Sequoia has been well-received by critics and consumers alike, even though it is still in its early stages. Along with its modern approach and cutting-edge technology, this ensures the vehicle’s place in the top 3.
The 2020 Toyota Sequoia was a strong contender. Still, I decided to be against it because insufficient time had elapsed, and I had heard that reliability issues with that model tend to increase.
This SUV can seat eight people comfortably and is powered by a robust V8 engine. Although the car’s fuel economy isn’t the best, it makes up for its quick acceleration, assertive handling, and overall high quality.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 2 recalls and 2 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.1/5.0 consumer and 6.9/10 expert ratings.
- J.D. Power: 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer and 3.8 expert ratings.
2. Best Year: 2023 Toyota Sequoia (4.26 Rating)
The hybrid powertrain in the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is one of the vehicle’s best characteristics. The i-FORCE MAX Twin Turbo V6 Hybrid features a 3.4-liter V6 engine with twin turbochargers and an electric motor.
With the 10-speed automatic transmission, the powerplant produces an impressive 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque in this combination. The 2023 Toyota Sequoia offers both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
The Sequoia has a maximum towing capacity of 9,520 lbs. Additionally, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia uses high-tech sensors and cameras to aid drivers in safely towing trailers in various conditions.
According to Cnet, the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is competent but not exceptionally comfortable.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 3 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.1/5.0 consumer and 7.4/10 expert ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2/5.0 expert ratings.
1. Best Year: 2015 Toyota Sequoia (4.33 Rating)
Large SUVs sacrifice much in other areas to accommodate their massive luggage capacities. The Sequoia changed that when it appeared in the market. The greatest model that exemplifies this is the 2015 Toyota Sequoia.
It has been developed so that you are getting exceptional performance on the road. The suspension is top-notch, so you will not feel bumps as much as other SUVs in its class. This SUV is the third-best Large SUV in its class.
The 2015 Toyota Sequoia is another impressive vehicle with few to no severe user problems. While it has a strong reliability rating, its driving dynamics are also excellent, unlike some of its predecessors.
This model year also debuted the introduction of a sunroof and rearview camera as a standard feature in the Toyota Sequoia.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 3 recalls and 7 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 77/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.7/5.0 consumer and 4.0 expert ratings.
Common Toyota Sequoia Problems
Compared to other full-size SUVs, Toyota’s Sequoia has a strong dependability and durability track record. However, there are a few issues that you should be aware of.
Transmission Issues
It has been said that earlier Sequoia vehicles had trouble with the transmission. Repairing a malfunctioning transmission is, alas, not cheap. Due to the complexity and importance of the transmission system, repairs for a Sequoia can easily exceed $3,500.
Rusting
Many Sequoia owners are unhappy about the SUV’s frame rusting. The Sequoia’s huge metal frame rusts and corrodes quickly, rendering the SUV unusable.
Faulty Ball joint
Many Sequoias from the 2001-2008 model years have an early ball joint wear issue. Due to a manufacturing flaw, Sequoia’s ball joints are more prone to wear and strain.
FAQs
Is Toyota Sequoia Worth The Money?
The Toyota Sequoia is still a good option, although it’s expensive to maintain and has specific bugs. However, the Sequoia continues Toyota’s legacy of quality vehicles and proves to be a trustworthy car.
The Toyota Sequoia is one of the few full-size SUVs that can be relied upon. You would be happy to know that Sequoia is ranked as the fastest supercomputer worldwide. You should look for used models produced after 2010 to obtain the most incredible value for your money.
Are Toyota Sequoia Reliable?
Toyota Sequoias are generally among the most reliable vehicles on the market and in the Toyota lineup. The Toyota Sequoia has a 3.5 reliability rating on repairpal.com. Compared to other cars in its class, this ranking places it in the upper half, at #5 out of 14 full-size SUVs.
However, it hasn’t been redesigned in about 15 years, and the interior is old and lacks the latest and greatest in technology found in its rivals.
Tahoe or Sequoia: Which One is Better?
While the Chevrolet Tahoe is more spacious and has more features, the Toyota Sequoia is more powerful and more fuel-efficient. Moreover, the Sequoia is superior to the Tahoe regarding towing capacity and safety features.
How Long Will Toyota Sequoia Last?
Between 250,000 and 300,000 kilometres is the predicted lifespan of a Toyota Sequoia. If you take good care of your Sequoia, you can get good performance out of it even after 300,000 miles.
Conclusion
The Toyota Sequoia is a good and reliable option despite minor faults that affect all models. If you’re looking for a used car, it’s best to buy any model later than 2010. If not, you must deal with costly repairs and recall concerns.
